Relationships and Marriage

This information is provided for your consideration; remember to always consult with your healthcare team.

One of the main social issues that arises for someone with cystic fibrosis is whether to tell their friends or significant other that they have the disease. Professionals who treat cystic fibrosis generally agree that an open and honest approach is the best way to address this concern. Some people may react differently, but in general you are likely to find your friends to be very supportive and inquisitive about your disease. You may still maintain your privacy in dealing with your condition even if those around you are aware that you have cystic fibrosis. Being open about it may prevent awkward situations such as having to explain frequent bathroom trips and pill consumption.

Several more issues come into play in the context of long-term relationships, marriage and having children. Chief among these are the possible limited life expectancy associated with cystic fibrosis and potential difficulties when it comes to reproduction. It can become an issue when considering having children, with the possibility of one parent being left to raise the children by themselves. Another issue is the fact that 98% of men with cystic fibrosis are infertile¹ and a fair number of affected women have more trouble getting pregnant. Consult with your doctor when considering becoming pregnant. It is not uncommon for pregnancy to cause increased health problems in women with cystic fibrosis. Talk to doctor about issues relating to pregnancy. Also a risk is the possibility of having a child with cystic fibrosis, for which genetic counseling and carrier screening is advisable.

• 1) http://www.uhmc.sunysb.edu/urology/male_infertility/Genetics_of_male_infertility.html

Consider exploring the following websites for more information:

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Cystic Fibrosis Carrier Testing
• IME Video Library — Reducing Isolation: An Adult Cystic Fibrosis Support Group