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Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Augusta, GA

How do u tell or should u tell ur significant other that u have fibro????

Is it fair to him...we can talk about all his health problems but I tend to keep mines to myself...

September 14, 2016
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Answer Summary

Members overwhelmingly encouraged honesty about fibromyalgia in a serious relationship, emphasizing that open communication helps partners... Read more

Members overwhelmingly encouraged honesty about fibromyalgia in a serious relationship, emphasizing that open communication helps partners understand daily challenges, offer practical support like reducing physical demands, and demonstrate whether they're truly committed for better or worse. Several members shared that timing matters, suggesting natural opportunities like a canceled date due to symptoms or wearing a fibro bracelet that sparks conversation, while also recommending educational resources to help partners grasp what fibromyalgia actually means. A recurring theme was that hiding a chronic illness isn't fair to either person, as transparency builds trust and intimacy, ensures proper help during flare-ups, and reveals early on whether someone can handle the reality of living with unpredictable symptoms.

A MyFibroTeam Member

With fibro and a relationship, you have to be very, very honest even and especially about the "ugly side of it "! You have to realize the person iis going to see it sooner or later. Educate them on it and see how they are with it but they need to know.

September 15, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

That's one of the first things I talk about, and if they can't or don't want to deal with it, I say oh well, I keep it moving

September 15, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I definitely say educate those that are actively in your life. This will help with misconceptions and drama! I was honest with my work family and home family to help me manage me. I have always been an over achiever and hadn't developed the skill set to slow down. Well Fibromyalgia taught me the hard way. Now, I value my time and relationships more and I am determined to be the best new me; with their help. Fortunately, my family understands I had to let some things in my life go, which helps me balance. If they are a valued relationship, tell them.

September 19, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I say, bring all of you to the table. This is intimacy. There is no relationship without trust.

September 18, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

That's true, never keep the ones we love in the dark because they can be our ally in fighting the effects of this disease. In some of the worst flare up pain that I've had ( I swear nothing could make me feel less miserable) but along comes my husband who can read me when the pain's bad and he'll do or say something to get me to laugh ! I don't know how he does it and anyone else would get the "thousand yard pain stare " but he knows how to get to me and make me smile through the darkness ! Keep your loved one's in the loop.
Brenda

September 16, 2016

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