
People with osteoporosis are at higher risk for fractures, particularly of the hip and spine. For this reason, they should be careful in their day-to-day activities, including sexual activities.
However, having osteoporosis doesn’t mean the end of your sex life. With some changes, sex can be just as fulfilling as it once was.

Here are some tips for satisfying sex when one partner has osteoporosis:
- See your doctor. Your healthcare provider can monitor your osteoporosis and let you know how severe your situation is. They can also advise on ways to reduce your fracture risk and suggest websites and other resources for learning more.
- Talk to your partner. Clear, honest, open communication is important for any sexual relationship. If you feel anxious, or if something hurts, let your partner know. They might welcome the conversation, too. Partners are often nervous about causing pain or discomfort. Together, you can reassure each other and keep your bond strong.

- Think about sexual positions. A person with osteoporosis should avoid being in a bottom position, as this setup puts too much weight and pressure on the body and increases fracture risk. Instead, try having the partner with osteoporosis on top, where they can have more control. Other options are side-by-side and spooning positions.
- Consider cushions, sexual ramps, and devices. Pillows and cushions can support or protect weaker parts of the body. Sex toys, like vibrators, can provide more stimulation, too.
- Use heat. Heat from a heating pad, electric blanket, bath, or shower might reduce pain and stiffness.

- Experiment. Intimacy can be so much more than intercourse. Hugging, kissing, touching, massage, oral sex, and mutual masturbation are intimate activities that put less pressure on bones and joints. Explore the possibilities with your partner and see what discoveries you can make together.
- Take care of your osteoporosis. Try to stay active, eat healthy foods, and get enough sleep. Your doctor can recommend treatments as well as exercise and diet programs for better bone health.

Learn more with these links:
Is there a link between erectile dysfunction (ED) and osteoporosis?
What is the connection between low testosterone and osteoporosis?
Should transgender individuals be concerned about bone mineral density?
Resources
EverydayHealth.com
Myers, Wyatt
“Osteoporosis and Your Sex Life”
(May 24, 2010)
https://www.everydayhealth.com/osteoporosis/healthy-sex-life-with-osteoporosis.aspx
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
“Osteoporosis Overview”
(Last reviewed: October 2018)
https://www.bones.nih.gov/health-info/bone/osteoporosis/overview
National Osteoporosis Foundation of South Africa
“Osteoporosis and Sexual Intercourse: Is it safe?”
https://osteoporosis.org.za/osteoporosis-sexual-intercourse-safe?
X’s and O’s
Bates, Michael, MD
“Osteoporosis And Sexuality”
https://www.xsandos.net/blog/sexual-health/osteoporosis-and-sexuality.html