Introduction
The extent to which sexual function is
impaired depends on a variety of factors; the level of
injury, the severity of damage, and the individual's
gender.
Since a spinal cord injury (SCI)
affects virtually every system of the human body, many
people who sustain SCI have serious concerns about how
their injuries have affected their ability to participate
in and enjoy a sexual relationship. This document
attempts to address some of the more common questions
that arise on the topic of sex after a SCI. It also
directs the reader to additional sources of more specific
information.
Sexual function in humans is controlled
by parts of the central nervous system (CNS),
particularly the brain and spinal cord. Interruption to
the CNS through injury to the spinal cord will therefore
have some effect on sexual function. The extent to which
sexual function is impaired, however, depends on a
variety of factors including the level of injury, the
severity of damage to the spinal cord, and whether the
individual is male or female.
Topics covered in this fact sheet
include:
- Female Sexual Function After SCI
- Male Sexual Function After SCI
- Sexual Sensation After Spinal Cord
Injury
- Body Image
- Professional Counseling
- Alternative Lifestyles
- Sexual Devices
- Resource Listing
For a complete text of this fact sheet,
join NSCIA.
NSCIA, 8/95
NSCIA would like to thank Dan Casady,
Thom DeLilla and Robert Oates, M.D., for their help in
preparing this fact sheet. This Factsheet is offered as
an information service and is not intended to cover all
treatments or research in the field nor is it an
endorsement of the methods mentioned herein. Any
information you may have to offer to further update this
Factsheet would be greatly appreciated. The National
Spinal Cord Injury Association Resource Center (NSCIRC)
provides information and referral on any subject related
to spinal cord injury. Contact the resource center at
1-800-962-9629.
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