Sexuality
Sexuality is an expression of one's self as a woman or man. It
is intimate in nature, which means it is personal and private. Sexuality is
commonly expressed through physical and emotional closeness. Most people
consider sexual activity as a means to express physical intimacy. However,
physical intimacy is more than sexual intercourse. Holding hands, hugging and
kissing are good examples of ways to express physical intimacy. Likewise,
emotional intimacy is more than feelings that result from physical contact.
Emotional intimacy can be a connection with one's self that results in feelings
of self-satisfaction, confidence and self-worth. It may also be a feeling of
trust in another person and an openness to share private thoughts and feelings.
After Spinal Cord
Injury
As a woman with spinal cord injury (SCI), you will discover that
sexuality is still an important part of your life. It may take some time for a
newly injured woman to become comfortable with her body and resume natural
feelings of sexuality. Healthy adjustment begins with knowing the facts about
the impact of SCI on sexual issues.
Sexual Function
In actuality, there are few physiological changes after injury
that prevent women from engaging in sexual activity. Some women have decreased
vaginal lubrication. This problem is likely the result of the interruption in
normal nerve signals from the brain to the genital area.
Typically, lubrication occurs as a mental and physical reflex
response to something sexually stimulating or arousing. Lubrication is a sign
of sexual arousal and generally results in easier vaginal penetration and more
pleasurable sexual activity. While most women with SCI maintain some degree of
lubrication, those who wish can utilize a waterbased lubricant (never use oil
based lubricants), such as K-Y Jelly, to facilitate sexual activity.
Depending on your level and completeness of injury, you may
experience a change in surface sensation and ability to contract your muscles.
This may lead you to try sexual positions or activities different from those
prior to your injury. Talking to your partner about your need and/or desire for
these new activities and positions is also a way to improve your relationship.
One of the changes that you may notice after SCI is that it
takes longer for an orgasm to occur and/or it feels different. While the
majority of women with SCI are able to experience orgasm, it may take more
stimulation than prior to injury. Also, many of the medications that women take
can make it more difficult to achieve orgasm.
If you are having difficulties, the use of a vibrator may help
women with an injury below the T6 level. It may also be helpful to speak with
your physician to see if your medications could be adjusted to minimize their
impact on your sexual responses.
Conclusion
Sexuality does not have to change after spinal cord injury.
Women with SCI can still express sexuality both physically and emotionally.
However, it is important for women to learn how their injury may have changed
their mind and body. When you prevent potential problems and properly manage
areas of concern, you will feel comfortable in exploring, expressing, and
enjoying all aspects of sexuality regardless of your level of injury.
If needed, women with SCI should not hesitate to get
professional advice if they experience problems related to sexuality. For
example, a professional counselor can help resolve problems with
self-adjustment and relationship issues. A physiatrist (doctor who specializes
in rehabilitation medicine) can be an educational resource for women and help
them manage medical issues. Plus, a physiatrist can likely recommend a
urologist and gynecologist knowledgeable on issues related to sexual and
reproductive health for women with spinal cord injury.
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