Too often, there can be a stigma around talking about sex after SCI – spinal centres do provide educational opportunities for newly injured people to learn about sex after SCI, but those rehabilitating in general hospitals may not get that chance.<\/p>\n
Sex may not be the first thing on your mind when you become spinal cord injured but when you do consider it there are often many questions to be asked. Our nurse specialists have put together a collection of the most common questions asked about sex after SCI.\u00a0 See our other blogs for separate questions particulary relevant to men<\/a> or women.<\/a><\/p>\n There\u2019s no reason why not! Remember there\u2019s a lot more to a sexual relationship than intercourse. Foreplay, cuddling, caressing and everything else plays a part too. Often, it\u2019s about changing your mindset \u2013 it\u2019s not just a physical act, it\u2019s an emotional one too and understanding how you and your partner feels, will help enhance the physical aspect. Perceptions of what you enjoyed before might be a little different now. In a similar way, exploring other ways to be intimate with your partner and finding what turns them on can be very fulfilling.<\/p>\n Accidents are very rare. Having a good routine with your bladder and bowels and understanding how your body reacts and what might trigger them to empty really helps.\u00a0 Try to make sure your bladder is empty before having sex and likewise, knowing your bowels have been well managed offers confidence and reassurance.<\/p>\n Talk with your partner so they\u2019re aware of your body\u2019s reactions. It\u2019s good to have that conversation in the first place, so that if it does happen, everyone\u2019s prepared and it\u2019s not a big shock.<\/p>\n If it\u2019s playing on your mind, be prepared and have a towel or mattress protector on the bed in case of any accidents but if you\u2019ve got good management of your bowel and bladder, you should be just fine.<\/p>\n If you\u2019ve got any queries about sex with an in-dwelling catheter, please get in touch as there\u2019s advice we can give on minimising the risks of any damage.<\/p>\n The SCI Powder Room on Facebook.<\/a> This is a female-only, private group covering personal, sensitive and female-related topics.<\/p>\n Sex and the Spine<\/a> \u2013 easily accessible and trusted resources on sexual well-being from professional experts.<\/p>\n Spokz<\/a> \u2013 Online shop offering products aimed at enhancing sexual wellbeing for disabled people<\/p>\nWill I be able to satisfy a sexual partner?<\/h2>\n
How can I help prevent bladder and bowel accidents?<\/h2>\n
Where can I find further information?<\/h2>\n