Issues in sexuality and gynecologic care of women with developmental disabilities

The reproductive needs of women with developmental disabilities often are overlooked by family, caregivers, institutions, and even health care professionals because these women are regarded as somehow asexual. However, women with developmental disabilities are becoming more active in their communities, leading to greater opportunities for social-sexual interactions and an even greater need for reproductive services. Nurses are in a pivotal position to provide a variety of reproductive services encompassing not only the needs of women with developmental disabilities but also of their support systems. Special considerations during the gynecologic examination are discussed, as are available birth control options.