Sexual function after brain injury
Changes in sexual function may be caused by physical and mental problems after a brain injury. Sexual difficulty can be caused by the brain injury, medicines, and mental and social factors. Illness is among the top stressors for all people, along with marital changes, job changes, changes in housing, and the loss of a loved one.
Physical and mental effects on sexual function
Initial sexual issues are usually caused by brain swelling, sensory and cognitive changes, and the type or location of the injury. Sensory changes can include sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste. Mental changes can include problems with attention spans, thinking, memory, and the ability to initiate appropriate behavior, as a person may have trouble paying attention during sex, may not respond to sexual advances, or may not remember how to initiate sex in a pleasant way.
Social and behavioral changes
Frontal or right-sided brain injuries may result in problems with social skills or behavior. This can lead to behaviors that cause the other partner to be embarrassed or not aroused. For example, a person may talk too loudly or say sexual things in front of others.
Impact of stress on sexual function
Additional stress is caused by the financial impact of brain injury. The injured person may not be able to return to work or create an income. This can cause concerns for the family. Another family member may need to start working. Switching roles and duties within the family can create a big shift in the sexual relationship.
Sometimes partners do not realize they are stressed until it shows up sexually. Stress can cause hormonal changes, which can be responsible for sexual issues. Fertility may also be affected.
Medication and sexual issues
Medicines may also cause sexual problems. Some may decrease desire and performance.
Personality changes and sexuality
Some partners have said that personality changes after brain injury make sex difficult. Some have said they don’t feel like they know their partner or that their partner is somehow different. They may feel that the brain injured person acts or thinks differently.
Navigating changes in the sexual relationship
This mix of brain injury, changes within the family, medications, and changes in sexual behavior can make it difficult for couples to resume their sexual lives together. If you have questions or are having difficulties resuming your sexual relationship, please talk to your doctor, nurse, therapist or psychologist. Help is available.