Sexual Aspects of Patients with Spina Bifida and Clean Intermitent Catheterization

Abstract

PURPOSE Sexual life of patients with Spina Bifida (SB) is not well known and a higher interest is asked for by patients their families and associations. PURPOSE: To know sexual aspects (SA) of patients with SB (SBP) and the possible influence of Clean Intermittent Catheterization (CIC). MATERIAL AND METHODS Patients: Adults SBP of both sexes, older than 18 years who answered a questionnaire about SA. N=240 patients, 50.4% females and 49.6% males from 3 different cities. Middle age was 27 years. The most frequent pathological form was Myelomeningocele 88.2%. There were 109 SBP with CIC (45.4%). Method: Epidemiological observational study with a 350 item questionnaire designed by authors and presented by instructors. It was anonymous and answered by SBP. RESULTS 88% SBP answered had sexual desires but only 49.5% reported sexual activity, 50.5% with CIC and 45% without. Auto stimulation produces erogenous feeling in 29.4%, 39.2% with CIC and 20.7% without. 46.2% have lived as a couple, 52.3% with CIC and 41.2% without. The couple was stable in 55.2% of cases, 59.4% with CIC and 51.8% without. There were problems in continuing a couples relationship in 66.5%, 25.9% with CIC and 38.8 without. Specific problems during intercourse were reported by 51.2%, 42.2% with CIC and 59.1% without. Masturbation was practised by 50.6% and 92.6% of them confirmed orgasm, without a difference with CIC. Intercourse was reported by 52.5% and 86.7% of them with orgasm without a difference with CIC. There were no differences in erectile dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS Sexual activity of SBP seem underestimated and have a high potential for development. CIC does not limit SA at all, even more it seems to improve some specific aspects.