DOI: 10.4103/ijoth.ijoth_36_25 ISSN: 0445-7706

Sexual Concerns in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review

Shilpshree Prashant Palsule, Tina Prasad Parkar, Rameshwar Tangade, Arjun Rathod
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Abstract

Background:

Spinal cord injury (SCI) significantly impacts individuals’ physical, psychological, and social well-being. Among the many challenges, sexual health is a critical yet often overlooked component of quality of life. SCI can disrupt sexual function, alter roles, and cause psychological distress, affecting both individuals and their partners. These sexual concerns are multifaceted, involving physiological impairments (e.g., genital sensation, arousal, and reproductive function) and psychosocial factors (e.g., body image, self-esteem, and relationship dynamics). Despite their prevalence, sexual health concerns are rarely addressed adequately in clinical settings. While physical rehabilitation is commonly discussed, literature addressing sexual health in SCI is limited and often underreported.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to systematically review the existing literature on sexual concerns in individuals with SCI.

Study Design:

A Systematic Review.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Research Gate, Google Scholar, and Semantic Scholar. Free full-text cross-sectional, qualitative, and interventional studies published between 2013 and 2023 were included. Reporting followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines.

Results:

Twenty-four articles met the inclusion criteria. Of these: The findings show that most studies concentrated on female sexual health after SCI ( n = 17 [70.83%]) and the psychological effects of reduced sexual intimacy ( n = 15 [62.5%]). However, fewer studies looked at male sexual concerns ( n = 10 [41.66%]) or the lower quality of life related to sexual problems ( n = 12 [50%]). Less than half of the studies ( n = 11 [45.83%]) covered how to include sexual rehabilitation in therapy. Notably, only one study ( n = 1 [4.16%]) involved the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting a significant gap in inclusivity. Overall, the results suggest that while sexual health is recognized in the context of SCI, it is not consistently addressed. There are major gaps in inclusivity, male representation, and rehabilitation methods.

Conclusion:

Cord injury which are less commonly explored. Overall, the findings reveal uneven attention across key areas, suggesting the need for a more balanced and inclusive approach in future clinical practice and patient care.

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