Partners and Caregivers
Having a partner with a disability does not take away fun in the bedroom, it only adds to the playful experiences!
How To Support?
What support can you provide to your significant other?
As an informal caregiver, you are a valuable and irreplaceable asset to your partner’s healthcare team.
Sexual satisfaction for people with a disability and their partner/s is rarely discussed within the healthcare system. You may be wondering what is the most appropriate support you can provide to assist with the varied changes you will both experience.
The good news is, that the presence of a disability and sexual satisfaction is not correlated. In fact, research shows that the partners of people with a disability have similar satisfaction rates as a couple without a disability.
Communication and your willingness to experiment
When it comes to sexual experiences, communication is key. Any misconceptions or conflict can be overcome by expressing your honest feelings and views. This can be beneficial for relationships in the long term.
Research shows that partners who show compassion, concern and willingness to explore sexual methods, are correlated with higher rates of sexual satisfaction.
Don't let the disability stop your kink! Some people may find that kinks are a perfect way to start conversations about expectations and feelings regarding sex. You could start by looking into BDSM, sado-masochism and other power play.
Putting yourself first
Being an informal caregiver to your partner can be a draining and isolating experience. Self-care is vital in order to assist you and your partner through this difficult time.
Research identifies that people who have better mental health correlates with a greater rate of sexual satisfaction.
Knowing your partner's condition
It helps to know your partner's body to be able to experiment what works and what doesn't work during your sex.
Try researching information relating to your partners condition and the changes that they will experience.
It is very important to know signs of serious health conditions that could occur during the intercourse. please refer to "Sexual health/safety" tab for some medical issues that may occur during your intercourse.
How Sexual Expression With A Disability Can Be Different
Sexual difficulties that can occur as a result of a physical disability
Physical disabilities that can cause varying sexual dysfunctions in individuals include but are not limited to:
Spinal cord injury
Multiple Sclerosis
Cerebral palsy
Some common sexual functioning issues for each condition have been listed below.
Remember, it is important to discuss this with your treating medical team as everyone’s sexual needs and functions are different.
Spinal Cord Injury
Altered sexual desire and arousal
Altered vaginal lubrication
Altered genital sensation
Altered vaginal accommodation, pain and orgasm
Altered bowel/bladder control
Difficulty of intercourse due to altered physical function
Multiple Sclerosis
Erectile dysfunction
Numbness in the genital
Altered sexual desire
Altered vaginal lubrication
Difficulty achieving orgasm
Cerebral Palsy
Difficulty reaching orgasm
Difficulty performing sexual activities due to limited physical functions such as muscle spasticity
Mental Health
It is very common amongst people with a disability to report the onset of mental health issues after diagnosis of a condition or injury. This includes reports of low mood, lack of self-confidence and self-esteem. This can lead to a reluctance in initiating or engaging in sexual acts. Therefore, it is important to keep the communication channels open between sexual partners and health professionals.