Will I be able to have sex after spinal cord injury?

Sexual function is a crucial part of life for many people, and for those who have suffered a spinal cord injury, it is common to have concerns about sexual ability after injury. Wondering whether or not you will be able to have sex after a spinal cord injury is sadly not a simple question to answer.

The question widely depends on a person’s individual experience and depends entirely on the location and severity of the injury, as well as other factors such as age, gender, and even pre-injury sexual function.

The effects of spinal cord injury on sexual function

Spinal cord injury can affect both men and women in different ways. Essentially, the higher the level of the injury on the spinal cord, the greater the impact on sexual function. For women, spinal cord injuries at or above the T12 level could affect genital sensation and lubrication. For men, spinal cord injuries at or above the T10 level can result in erectile dysfunction, while injuries at or above the T12 level cause issues with ejaculation.

Despite this, it’s essential to recognise that the effects of spinal cord injury on sexual function are not always predictable or the same for everyone. Some of those with lower-level injuries may struggle with sexual function similar to their pre-injury level, while others with higher-level injuries may still be able to enjoy sexual experiences with the help of assistive devices, medication, or other helpful interventions.

Assistive devices and other interventions

Assistive devices and other interventions can potentially help restore or enhance sexual function. Interventions may include medications such as Viagra, to help improve erectile function, or devices such as vacuum erection devices to achieve and maintain an erection.

Women who experience dryness or pain during sex can utilise lubricants and devices such as vibrators to help with genital sensation and orgasm. For more serious cases, surgery could be a possibility. Other interventions include therapy and counselling depending on the individual circumstances.

Communicating adjustments

The changes in sexual function after a spinal cord injury can be incredibly challenging along with the other difficulties that are presented throughout recovery. For optimal results, open communication with partners and healthcare professionals is essential. Creating an open and honest space can help you to seek resources and support from those who work with spinal cord injury patients, and help to communicate preferences and concerns with partners.

A therapist or counsellor can also help to address psychological and emotional factors that may be impacting sexual function and can provide guidance for developing new ways to experience intimacy and pleasure regardless of the injury.

Aspire Law can help

While the effects of spinal cord injury on sexual function can be complex and challenging, it’s important to remember that many people with spinal cord injuries are still able to have fulfilling and satisfying sexual experiences. By working with healthcare providers, communicating openly with partners, and exploring available interventions and resources, individuals with spinal cord injuries can find ways to adapt and adjust to changes in sexual function and maintain a positive and enjoyable sex life.

At Aspire Law, we make sure you get the compensation that not only you need, but also deserve. This can help fund healthcare support to help patients with sexual function after injury. Get in touch with us today to discover more.