Exploring the sexual expression and needs of people with disabilitiesDecember 24, 2018
Many people assume that individuals with disabilities cannot have sex or do not want to, and that they are unable to have children, which leads to the subject being treated as a taboo topic and rarely discussed. Even healthcare professionals are guilty of not bringing up the topic with their patients, or dismissing it when it is raised.
According to the World Health Organisation, sexuality is an integral part of every person's personality, regardless of their physical or intellectual abilities. However, people with disabilities are often regarded as non-sexual adults in today's society. Sexuality Sex is often associated with physical attractiveness, and when this is not the case, it is seen as inappropriate. When sex and disability are discussed, the conversation typically centers around male capacity and technique and female fertility, while ignoring aspects of sexuality such as touching, affection, and emotions. Sexuality is not just about the act of penetration; it encompasses much more than that. It involves the way we look and feel, and communication with a partner is essential. People with disabilities can still function sexually after experiencing a stroke, but the biggest challenge they face is depression, which can remove the desire for intimacy and sexual relationships. Men with stroke may also have diabetes, which can affect their ability to have an erection, but there are medications available to help. Some patients with spinal cord injuries can still achieve an erection because they have spasticity. Although they may not feel their penis or genital area, they can still have a reflex erection. Medication can help sustain this, while others are taught to use a vacuum pump if it is safe. They may even feel erotic sensations in other areas of their body, such as their earlobes or thumb. Partners are encouraged to experiment and find what makes them feel good, and while having an orgasm may still be possible, it may not feel the same as it did before. |
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