Disability

1. Studies have addressed the sexual needs of
spinal-cord injuries, little research has assessed
the sexual health needs of persons born with
physical and intellectual disabilities. Societal
attitudes toward sexual expression among people
with intellectual disabilities have not been
favorable. Families, fearing exploitation and
abuse, may shield their impaired children from
obtaining any sexual knowledge or keep them
from participating in appropriate sex education
programs.
2. Clearly, an assessment of the intellectual
capabilities of the individual is needed to
determine the person’s ability to consent to sexual
overtures. Similar problems may arise among
individuals with congenital physical disabilities.
In both cases, the physician must address the
concerns of the parents, provide education,
anticipatory guidance to the child or young adult,
and encourage responsible sexual behavior.
3. Appropriate confidentiality is important also.
Treading the difficult line between giving the
non-independent woman appropriate confidential
information and consultation and helping her
work within her family system may be
challenging. Understanding guardianship and
family relations will help.

Posted in: Health,Sexuality,Sexuality through the life-cycle