Impact of spinal cord injury on sexuality: Broad-based clinical practice intervention and practical application

Abstract

This study focuses on the impact a spinal cord injury may have on achieving physical and emotional intimacy, and potential to maximize sexual ability and quality of life. Spinal cord injury is a traumatic, life-altering event that is usually associated with loss of motor and sensory function, as well as sexual impairment. At the time of injury, the individual is faced with devastating loss and an abundance of new information in a setting of extreme stress and challenge. In the acute rehabilitation setting, there is often a considerable void in providing education and resources regarding sexual concerns and needs. There is a positive relationship between sexual education and sexual activity. The impact of inadequate sexual counseling and education as a part of rehabilitation can be deleterious.

Keywords:

• Sexuality
• Spinal cord injuries
• Intervention
• Best practice
• Erectile dysfunction
• Rehabilitation
• Physical
• Patient education
• Tetraplegia
• Paraplegia
• Autonomic dysreflexia
• Assistive devices