Sexual rehabilitation services after spinal cord injury: What do women want?

Purpose: To explore and describe women's experiences and concerns related to inpatient sexual rehabilitation. Participants: Twenty-four women who experienced traumatic SCI between 17 and 63 years of age. Methods: Semi-structured interviews with follow-ups were conducted oil topics including amount and type of inpatient sexual education and counseling experiences, sexual concerns after injury, and suggestions regarding sexual rehabilitation approaches and activities. Results: Multiple themes emerged. Overarching themes included the importance of timing and honoring individual differences. Only two women reported receiving in-depth sexual rehabilitation services. Sexuality was not a priority soon after injury for a majority but assumed greater importance later. Participants believed sexuality should be broached during inpatient rehabilitation and introduced by the health professional. Reactions to healthcare Professionals' communication styles and behaviors were described. Conclusion: Participants' feedback can help inform training and practice of rehabilitation professionals who work with women with SCI and other acquired disabilities. Concrete suggestions are offered.