Sexuality and fertility management after spinal cord injury

Overview

If you've experienced a spinal cord injury (SCI), you may benefit from sexuality and fertility management, education and counseling. Your physical condition after your spinal cord injury may change aspects of your sexual function and affect your physical, mental and social well-being related to your sexuality or sexual health.

Therapies for sexuality and fertility management after SCI may involve:

• Psychological therapy. The mental and social well-being aspects of your sexual health after your spinal cord injury are as important as your physical aspects. The ability to feel good about your body after SCI and regain confidence in establishing and maintaining intimate relationships is a vital but often unaddressed aspect of sexual health after SCI.

  The integrated team of trained and experienced doctors, nurses and rehabilitation psychologists educates and counsels people regarding the mental and social well-being aspects of their sexual health.

• Treatment for sexual dysfunction. Men and women who have had spinal cord injuries may notice physical changes after their SCIs and may need treatment to help resume sexual activity.

  Men who have difficulties with sexual function due to spinal cord injury have several potential treatment options, which may include medications, assistive devices or implants.

• Fertility counseling. Trained staff can discuss issues with you and your partner regarding sexual health and fertility and provide you with sexuality education and counseling.

  Women who've had a spinal cord injury usually can become pregnant and deliver normally. If you wish to become pregnant, you should plan the pregnancy and discuss any potential issues with your treatment team.