Brief overview of various ways SCI can impact sexual functioning
Spinal cord injuries can impact sexual functioning in many different ways. You may experience changes with your sensation, skin, arousal, orgasm, mobility, and pain. There are things we can to to be creative when it comes to our sexuality. This tab provides strategies that can be utilized to help enhance sexual functioning abilities. Take some time to explore this page but remember that you should always consult with your doctor first on any questions or concerns you may have.
Here is a video for more information on the effects of spinal cord injuries on sex: Effects of SCI on Sex — Sexuality after SCI (sexualitysci.org)
You may experience loss of feeling on various parts of your body following a spinal cord injury. Sometimes, pain or other unusual sensations may also be felt in response to touch. Take some time to explore the resources below to help explain changes with sensation following a spinal cord injury and things you can do. To explore more information on sensation and strategies you can use, click the link below.
Sexual arousal may be impacted following a spinal cord injury. Changes may be experienced with erection or lubrication which can negatively impact your sexual expression and experiences. You may experience decreased sexual interest following your spinal cord injury which can also impact arousal. To explore more information on arousal and strategies you can use, click the link below.
Orgasm is very much dependent on the level of injury and completeness of the injury. Further, orgasm is just as much mental as it is physical. For more information on orgasm and strategies you can use, click the link below.
Changes in movement after spinal cord injury can impact with the way you move your body to express yourself. Spasticity can also interfere with your mobility and sexuality. Click below to learn more about mobility and ways you can facilitate positioning.
Pain not only interferes with your daily activities, but it can also interfere with your sexuality. Pain can decrease your sexual interest due to fear of making it worse and it can cause stress between you and a partner if your partner fears causing you more pain. Medications used to treat pain can interfere with your arousal and orgasm potential as well. To learn more about pain and strategies you can use, click below.
Bladder and bowel management issues can delay or interfere with sexual enjoyment. It is important to establish routines and strategies for reducing urinary tract infections. To learn more about bowel/bladder management and strategies you can use, click below.