Chapter 13 - Sexual dysfunction in patients with spinal cord lesions

Abstract

Many aspects of sexuality can be disrupted following a spinal cord lesion (SCL). It can alter an individual's self-esteem and body image, interfere with positioning and mobility, introduce unexpected problems with incontinence and spasticity, decrease pleasure, and delay orgasm. Sexual concerns in men can involve erectile function, essential for intercourse, ejaculation function, necessary for fertility, and the ability to reach orgasm. In women they can involve concerns with vaginal lubrication, genital congestion, and vaginal infections, which can all go unnoticed, and orgasm, which may be lost. All of these concerns must be addressed during rehabilitation as individuals with SCL continue to live an active sexual life, and consider sexuality among their top priority for quality of life. This chapter describes the impact of SCL on various phases of men's and women's sexual responses and on various aspects of sexuality. Treatments are described in terms of what is currently available and what is specific to the SCL population. New approaches in particular for women are described, along with tips from sexual counseling which consider an overall approach, taking into account the primary, secondary, and tertiary consequences of the SCL on the individual's sexuality. Throughout the chapter, attempts are made to integrate neurophysiologic knowledge, findings from the literature on SCL, and clinical experience in sexual rehabilitation.