Impact of altered sexuality and sexual function in spinal cord injury: A review

The purpose of this article is to review the literature regarding the impact of altered sexuality and sexual function in individuals with spinal cord injuries. Dependent on both biological and psychological factors, sexual behavior and identity can be deleteriously affected by a spinal injury. The relationship of sexuality, sexual identity, and self-concept is discussed, and a distinction between sex and sexuality is drawn. Attitudes, emotions, and functional capabilities are explored, and readjustment and rehabilitation issues are considered. Sexual adjustment can be critical in the total rehabilitation of a person with a spinal cord injury.