This was a HUGE problem for me! I'm the kind of woman who throws herself head first into something and over commit my time - leaving no time for my hubby, or myself. Thankfully, I've been able to have a job where I can work from home, but that was a two-edged sword, as I would still over commit myself and expect way more from myself than anybody else did. I "retired" officially this year, but the outside stress has been insane and uncontrollable. This leaves me wiped out, bloated (still trying to figure that one out), full of pns and feeling oh so unattractive! Needless to say, I have a very understanding hubby who has been educated, along with myself, to know what my limitations are and what is actually happening to me. Now, I've been married for over 40 years and this wasn't always the case (the understanding part!) The most important thing is to keep at the relationship and be honest (first with yourself) about what you're feeling like. Sometimes you have to push yourself out of your comfort zone and get out even when you don't feel like it. The other thing I've realized is NOBODY is thinking or looking at you the way you look at yourself! Most people are pre-occupied with what's going on with them. You could gain 30-50 pounds and they wouldn't notice! They just see you and if you have people in your life who don't see you, then you need to scrape them off (like barnacles on a ship!), even if they're family (or at least limit time with them).

Hi Caitlin! I thought I’d chime in and add comments from a single 60 year old that is not currently in a relationship. Before I was diagnosed with PN, I was open to new relationships I just wasn’t “seeking” one. Now, or since this diagnosis, I have often thought about how I would do that 😃 it ends up being a lot of energy to start something new with these horrible, unsightly, sores and scars. Energy that I’m not sure I want to put out. The explanation of the disease can be tiring enough with close friends and family, having to explain to a stranger doesn’t really set well with me. I guess if that crossroads is on my journey I will make a decision which road to follow. But, in all honestly, these lesions disgust me when viewed, I’m not sure I could make another individual comfortable with PN. Be well ~ Marina