Answer
No, it’s not “just you.” The disease itself doesn’t cause loss of desire, but the physical strains and emotional stresses that come with it can wreak havoc on sexual needs, ability and satisfaction.

If fatigue thwarts your desire, try planning your sexual encounters in advance. This isn’t as dispassionate as it sounds. Remember how excited you used to become in anticipation of a special date?

Then save your energy for your “date.” Take a warm, relaxing bath or shower, as a prelude or even as part of foreplay. Light scented candles. Play mood music. Turn on the electric blanket and warm the sheets. “But don’t try to have sex when you’re tired,” says Seifer. “You’re setting up yourself [and your partner] for disappointment.”

Perhaps depression is the source of the problem. The disease itself doesn’t cause depression, but the changes it forces into your life can. If this sounds like your situation, talk with your doctor. Antidepressant medications and/or counseling may be in order.

Even some common arthritis medications may contribute to sexual difficulties and disinterest for both men and women. Antidepressants, glucocorticoids (like prednisone), muscle relaxers and other drugs can affect sex drive and the ability to have an orgasm, ejaculate or get an erection.