Sexuality and fertility management after spinal cord injury
About this test
Sexuality and fertility management after a spinal cord injury (SCI) may help manage changes in sexual health. A spinal cord injury can affect sexual function, along with mental, physical and social well-being related to sexual health. Relationships between partners may be affected too.
Why it's done
Sexuality and fertility management after a spinal cord injury (SCI) is done because an SCI can affect the genitals and sexual function. After a spinal cord injury, it may be hard to achieve and maintain an erection and to ejaculate. Blood flow to the vagina and vaginal lubrication can change. You may notice changes in sex drive and in the ability to orgasm after an SCI. The ability to have children, known as fertility, also may be affected after a spinal cord injury. Sexual activity and sexuality are important to many people after spinal cord injuries. Treatments, psychological therapy, fertility counseling and education can address these issues.
Risks and complications
The risks of sexuality and fertility management after a spinal cord injury depend on the specific type of treatment. There are no risks associated with psychological therapy or fertility counseling. If you take a medicine for sexual symptoms, there may be side effects. The most common medicine to treat erectile dysfunction is sildenafil (Viagra, Revatio). This medicine may cause headaches, flushing and mild low blood pressure. Flushing may cause patches of darker skin or dusky brown discoloration in people with brown or Black skin. It can cause pink or red skin in people with white skin. Penile implants can lead to serious complications, including infection.
How to prepare
As you get ready for an appointment for sexuality and fertility management after a spinal cord injury, it may help to read educational materials. Ask members of your healthcare team for pamphlets or other information.
What to expect
Sexuality and fertility management after a spinal cord injury (SCI) involves creating a comprehensive plan for rehabilitation. How much an SCI affects your sexuality and fertility depends on the level of spinal cord injury. It also depends on whether the SCI is complete or incomplete. Someone with a complete spinal cord injury loses feeling and the ability to move below the spinal cord injury. Someone with an incomplete spinal cord injury has some feeling and control of movement below the affected area. Your rehabilitation plan can address the range of symptoms you're experiencing related to sexual function.
Understanding your results
Sexuality and fertility management after a spinal cord injury can help people continue to experience sexual pleasure and orgasm. Management strategies may help strengthen your relationship with your partner. Therapies and treatments also can help couples get pregnant and give birth.
Disclaimer: August is a health information platform and its responses don't constitute medical advise. Always consult with a licenced medical professional near you before making any changes.