SEXUALITY IN SCI-AUTONOMIC DYSREFLEXIA MGM

SUMMARY

1. Individuals with spinal cord injury above T6 are at risk of autonomic dysreflexia (AD) during sexual activity, especially during ejaculation and orgasm.

2. Patient & partner education.

3. If AD occurs during sexual activity, the individual with SCI should stop & sit up to take advantage of the postural drop, then follow all AD-management guidelines.

4. The need for prophylactic antihypertensives should be considered on an individual basis.

5. A systematic review reported nifedipine as the most widely used treatment for autonomic dysreflexia during sexual activity^[1].

6. Emptying the bladder, using manual methods of stimulation with adequate lubrication, ensuring comfortable positioning (to avoid spasms and discomfort) may be sufficient.

Reference(s)

↑ Courtois F, Rodrigue X, Côté I et al. Sexual function and autonomic dysreflexia in men with spinal cord injuries: how should we treat? Spinal cord. 2012;50(12):869-77.

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.

[1] Courtois F, Rodrigue X, Côté I et al. Sexual function and autonomic dysreflexia in men with spinal cord injuries: how should we treat? Spinal cord. 2012;50(12):869-77.

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