I got the idea for this handout when I was conducting a 10 hour training for an interdisciplinary Brain Injury Unit team. The training was focused on interventions and considerations for sex and relationships for people with brain injury. The team asked a LOT of questions about how to respond to sexually relevant comments and questions. There were a lot of “well what about this scenario…?” and “what if this happens…?”

60% of people with brain injury report difficulties with sexual health. 75% demonstrate hyposexual difficulties, while 25% demonstrate hypersexual behaviors. Since there is often no guidance on how to navigate these symptoms or address the sexual goals of patients, staff can often be at a loss for what to do….

Welcome to the second part of our three-part series on addressing sexuality and intimacy after spinal cord injury (SCI). Today, we’ll delve deeper into the crucial role that Occupational Therapists (OTs) play in supporting individuals with SCI in this aspect of their lives. With their expertise and unique perspective, OTs can provide invaluable guidance and interventions to empower SCI patients and promote a positive and fulfilling sexual experience. The OT can be the shining light of comfort and advocacy! OTs are perfectly situated to lead these efforts in a clinical setting both for their patients and for the interdisciplinary team. Let's continue our exploration of the strategies and approaches that OTs employ in this domain.

As Sexuality and Intimacy Trailblazers, we know that sexuality and intimacy are important parts of our lives, bringing us joy and enhancing our overall well-being. However, when someone experiences a spinal cord injury (SCI), these aspects can be profoundly affected. Today, we'll discuss when to address these topics, the impacts of SCI on sexual health, specific complications that can arise, and the role of occupational therapy in supporting individuals on this journey.