SEXUALITY IN SCI-PREGNANCY & PARTURITION

SUMMARY

1. SCI does not alter the likelihood of becoming pregnant.

2. Medications: Vesicare, Baclofen and Botulinum toxin are Category B3 and should be avoided in pregnancy.

3. Bladder issues: increased UTI, bladder spasms, more frequent CISC required or use IDC.

4. Bowel issues: constipation, changes in bowel habits, GORD and nausea.

5. Respiratory: decreased lung capacity and dyspnoea.

6. Skin: risk of pressure areas due to increased weight and changes in centre of gravity.

7. Spasticity: increased pain related to spasticity.

8. Function: difficulty with ADLs, transfers, WC mobilization.

9. Autonomic dysreflexia: usually in labour, differential: preeclampsia.

10. Other issues: anaemia, fatigue, low BP.

11. Parturition: may require assisted vaginal delivery or Caesarean section, recommend epidural anaesthesia instead of GA.

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.