Sexual rehabilitation support experiences of Australian adults living with a spinal cord injury

Sexuality constitutes a fundamental component of wellbeing, which can be profoundly compromised by spinal cord injury. Yet, sexual quality of life associated with rehabilitation remains inadequately addressed.

Using a theory-driven, qualitative methodology and applying Material, Discursive, Intrapsychic Theory (encompassing multiple dimensions of sexuality), this study explored the sexual quality of life support experiences of nine Australian adults with spinal cord injury (SCI); male (n=8) and female (n=1) with varying levels of SCI using online interviews.

Participants' responses reflected previous research on sexuality in SCI, noting an emphasis on physical aspects (e.g. erection and ejaculation ability) to the neglect of the psychological and interpersonal. The three core components of Material, Discursive, Intrapsychic Theory were mapped onto themes from the data, demonstrating that aside from the physical impact of SCI, one's identity and relational connection to others, in addition to sociocultural discourse related to disability stigma, collectively impacted sexual wellbeing.

Practical sexual rehabilitation support that provides individualized assistance to build emotional connection, develop skills and offer personalized recommendations for equipment is fundamental to improving sexual wellbeing after a SCI.

: This study collected information from people with a spinal cord injury to better understand their perceptions of sexual quality of life guided by a theoretical framework. Following analysis of collected information, prominent themes encompassed sexual functioning, loss of autonomy, disability stigma and shame, and partner openness and ability.