People are sexual beings by nature.
Sexuality is not just about the physical act of sexual intercourse, but also includes emotional, intellectual, social aspects and other forms of sexual expression.
SCI may alter certain physical and emotional aspects, but in spite of this there are still many ways that a person can express their sexuality.
Healthy sexuality after SCI includes how to:
- Communicating your feelings, thoughts and desires
- Expressing yourself sexually in a positive, healthy way
- Experiencing sexual pleasure with or without erections or orgasms
- Using your senses of sight, sound, smell and taste to heighten your sexual pleasure so that you can be less dependent on touch alone
- Having a good sense of humor with your partner
At the heart of sexuality is the ability to communicate openly with your partner. You must be able to talk with and listen to your partner about your needs, likes and dislikes, and disabilities. You also need to express anger and frustration in a positive way.
Good communication skills are very important to healthy sexual relations after SCI.
Getting Help
Counselors, psychologists and sexual therapists can help you work through any problems you are having. A sex therapist can review your options to enhance your sexual pleasure.
