SEXUALITY IN SCI-DYSFUNCTION IN WOMEN

SUMMARY

1. After SCI, 59% of women reported at least one sexual dysfunction, and this can interfere with quality of life.

2. Impaired sensation: the potential for psychogenic arousal may depend on the degree of preservation of sensory function in T11–L2.

3. Reflex genital arousal and lubrication is thought to depend on an intact reflex arc in the S2–4 spinal segments.

4. Women with SCI lesions down to T5 may retain an orgasm reflex unrelated to the degree of neurological impairment due to the vagus nerve, which can be activated by deep stimulation of the vagina and cervix.

5. Education, counselling, the use of vaginal lubrication & therapy devices (vibrators) is important.

Reference(s)

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.