Recommendations for Discussing Sexuality After Spinal Cord Injury/Dysfunction in Children, Adolescents, and Adults

J Spinal Cord Med, 2007 · DOI: · Published: January 8, 2007

Spinal Cord Injury Urology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This paper reviews existing research to provide guidance on sex education for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) or disorders, spanning childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. The recommendations emphasize the importance of age-appropriate information regarding sexuality, including specific considerations related to SCI/D, for parents, partners, and individuals with SCI/D. The paper also touches on treatments available for sexual dysfunctions that individuals with SCI/D might experience.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Persons with spinal cord injury/dysfunction

Evidence Level

Level 4, Literature Review

Key Findings

1
Psychogenic genital vasocongestion in women correlates with the ability to perceive pinprick and light touch sensations in the T11–L2 dermatomes.
2
The ability to achieve reflex genital lubrication is related to the presence of an intact sacral reflex arc.
3
Approximately 50% of women with SCI experience orgasm.

Research Summary

This paper provides a framework for sex education for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) or disorder, with recommendations based on literature review, and adapted guidelines regarding sexuality in children and adolescents with general disabilities. The authors suggest parents, partners, and persons with SCI/D should be provided with age-appropriate information about sexuality, including specific SCI/D-related information. Effective therapy includes proactive teaching of the child’s parents about the impact of SCI/D on sexuality from sexual response, treatment of sexual dysfunctions, and relationships to expected consequences on reproductive function.

Practical Implications

Age-Appropriate Education

Provide specific information about sexuality that is appropriate for each stage of life and addresses concerns and questions that arise at each stage.

Awareness of Abuse

Be aware of the signs of abuse and take steps to prevent it in children with SCI/D, who are at higher risk.

Treatment for Sexual Dysfunction

Consider available therapies, including medications and vibratory stimulation, to address sexual dysfunctions that may arise after SCI/D.

Study Limitations

1
Paucity of research regarding the impact of SCIs and disorders on sexuality in children and adolescents.
2
Birth control, dating, and fertility topics for adolescents and adults with disabilities are beyond the scope of this work.
3
Lack of objective data to prove the efficacy of orgasmic therapies in SCI.

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