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The Paralysis Resource Center has divided the Sexual Health section by gender. The Sexuality for Men category includes a brief overview of male sexual function and the effects of paralysis. The Sexuality for Women area includes basic information on female sexual function, including childbearing and childcare.
Sexual identity is a significant and encompassing aspect of one's personality – sexuality plays an essential role in how we feel about ourselves, how we relate to others, how others relate to us.
To be sure, paralysis often affects peoples’ sexuality, including changes in physical functioning, sensation and response. Self-image can be shaken. People wonder if they can have sex again at all, whether they can attract a partner, whether the partner will stay, whether having children is possible.
While the range of sexual options may be different, physical attraction and sexual activity are realisic expectations – no matter the level or completeness of paralysis. Sexual pleasure is possible. Paralyzed women can have children; paralyzed men can be dads. Paralyzed people can have loving and lasting relationships.
The key to successfully redefining one’s sexual identity is experimentation and open communication. It helps to understand the anatomy and physiology of sexual function and sexual response. It may also help to connect with appropriate resources and knowledgeable health care professionals or counselors to best come to grips with the available options.
VIDEO: Watch Gary Karp, internationally recognized public speaker and author, give a talk on the impact of traumatic change on sexuality and intimate activity.
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