Talking with Your Spouse/Partner
Use the following questions and discussion points to talk about your condition with your partner or spouse.
Questions your partner/spouse may ask about your condition
How did you get Crohn’s disease?
Is there something I can do to help you manage your symptoms or get better?
Can you tell me when you start to feel symptoms so maybe I can help?
Does it hurt you to be touched or hugged when you are experiencing symptoms?
What kinds of intimacy or affection are you not comfortable with when you are experiencing symptoms?
Is there a special diet you need to follow?
What is a flare-up?
What type of treatment are you considering?
May I come to your next gastroenterologist’s visit with you so we can discuss your Crohn’s disease together with the gastroenterologist?
Where can I get more information about your condition?
What can I do to make you feel more comfortable about your condition when you are around me?
Can we discuss the healthcare costs involved in treating your Crohn’s disease?
Questions you may want to ask your partner regarding your condition
Does the fact that I have this condition affect the way you feel about me?
Is it particularly stressful for you to know that I have this condition, and are you upset when I experience symptoms?
I may feel uncomfortable with certain kinds of intimacy or affection when I am experiencing symptoms. Does this make you feel badly?
What can I do or say that will help you better understand my condition?
What scares you about my condition?
Would you like to come to a gastroenterologist’s visit with me so together we can discuss my Crohn’s disease, as well as possible treatments, with the gastroenterologist?
Would you like to discuss the healthcare costs involved with treating my condition?
Are you open to going to counseling or therapy together if necessary?
Would you like more information about Crohn’s disease?
