Factors associated with sexual functioning in women following spinal cord injury

Research into sexuality following spinal cord injury (SCI) has tended to concentrate on male experiences and the physical capabilities for sexual intercourse. The sexuality of women following SCI has only recently been addressed and studies are limited to small numbers and the use of non-standardised measures. The present investigation utilised standard measures of affective state and body satisfaction together with pre and post-injury questionnaire information of sexual dysfunction, feelings about sex and importance of sexual activity in a group of 85 women with SCI. Sexual dysfunction increased significantly post-injury, whilst feelings about sex and it's importance were unaffected. Sexual dysfunction and the importance of sex were inversely correlated. General and Head satisfaction estimates were not significantly different to control samples, whilst Body Satisfaction was increased for women with disabilities. None of the body satisfaction measures were related to the sexual functioning measure. General dissatisfaction was associated depression. Both anxiety and depression were experienced by the same individuals, and anxiety related to current sexual dysfunction. Qualitative data supported previous findings concerning the effects of social and attitudinal barriers on sexual functioning.