Living with PCD as an adult
Relationships, lifestyle choices, career planning, and starting a family.
Relationships and sex
• Choose a time to share your PCD story with a partner that feels safe and appropriate.
• Use barrier contraception to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
• Oral antibiotics can reduce absorption of some oral contraceptives – use condoms during antibiotics
and for 7 days after.
Alcohol and recreational drugs
• Avoid recreational drugs – contents are unpredictable and can be dangerous.
• If drinking alcohol, stay within government guidelines, check medication interactions, hydrate well, and plan physio before going out.
Stress and pacing
• Stress can affect immunity – schedule recovery time and use exercise as a stress management tool.
• Accept that plans may change at short notice; it can prevent longer setbacks.
Career planning (20-25+ years)
• Ask your doctor for a fitness-for-work letter if helpful.
• Discuss reasonable workplace adjustments (flexibility for clinics, work-from-home during peak viral seasons).
• Keep health routines protected in your schedule (physio, sleep, exercise, nutrition).
Raising a family (30+ years)
• If you have children, protecting your own physio routine supports your ability to care for them.
• If fatigue or time is a barrier, ask your physiotherapist for alternative strategies that fit your life.
This fact sheet provides general information only and is not medical advice. Always follow guidance from your respiratory/ENT/physiotherapy team.