Sexual changes and relationships

Sexual health includes physical, emotional, mental, and social wellbeing.

Sex encompasses many consensual activities that people find intimate, pleasurable, or satisfying.

Reproductive organs and nerve pathways contribute to sexual responses.

SCI can change genital sensation, arousal, orgasm, and other sexual responses. The pattern depends partly on which nerve pathways remain intact.

Bladder, bowel, physical, emotional, and relationship factors also influence sexual wellbeing. Equipment, fatigue, pain, spasticity, and concerns about accidents may affect comfort or confidence.

Adaptations, assistive products, communication, and exploration may support participation and satisfaction. Research is limited for many practical techniques described by peers and clinicians.