SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION FROM SPINAL CORD INJURIES | SPINAL CORD INJURY LAWYER ALBERTA

​In Canada, at least 1,500 new spinal cord injuries are reported every single year. Spinal cord injuries can be very traumatic for individuals and affect many aspects of their lives including the lives of their significant others.

Common types of spinal cord injuries include:

• Anterior cord syndrome
• Central cord syndrome
• Brown-sequard syndrome
• Tetraplegia
• Paraplegia
• Triplegia
• And more

In severe cases of spinal cord injuries – paralysis can also affect sexuality and sexual experiences with respect to both pleasure and fertility. Depending on the severity of the spinal cord injury – sexual dysfunction and intimacy with your loved one can be impacted and can affect both men and women differently. With females, sexual dysfunction as a result of a spinal cord injury generally tend to be changes to their menstrual cycle or lubrication. With men, sexual dysfunction is generally erectile dysfunction for which there are many medical recourse options available. 

Additional things that may classify sexual dysfunction as a result of a spinal cord injury include significantly reduced sexual sensations or absent sexual sensations in specific areas – while other areas may experience a jump in sexual sensation. Fortunately for these individuals – sex therapists can be utilized to help couples explore new ways to satisfy sexual sensations and communicate more effectively. 

If you are looking for help in this area – or are looking to give guidance and advice to a loved one on this topic, there are many resources available for individuals who are experiencing sexual impediments as a result of their spinal cord injuries. Here are some noteworthy resources for you regarding sexual health following a spinal cord injury:

1. Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation
2. SCI Sexual Health 
3. The Craig Hospital – For Men
4. The Craig Hospital – For Women

While spinal cord injury survivors may experience difficulty in discussing sensitive topics such as sexuality and intimacy with others, there are many resources, support groups, sex therapists and counselors who are trained to provide guidance and advice that can help with the recovery process. We recommend speaking to your doctor and asking for a recommendation for an experienced therapist or counselor who are equipped to assist spinal cord injury survivors. Just remember that there are many other spinal cord injury survivors who are going through the same thing you are – and that fortunately, there are many resources and options available to help you and your significant other.

Also remember that if you or a loved one have sustained spinal cord injuries as a result of an accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Call Braithwaite Boyle today for a free consultation by dialling 1-800-661-4902 and speak directly with a spinal cord injury lawyer.