Sexual health for the man with disability

23 Jun

Posted by Admin as Uncategorized

Many people are often unaware that disabled people experience the same sexual needs, feelings and desires as any other healthy adult. Puberty may begin a little later and some disabilities can affect sexual performance, but disability does not prevent sexual maturity, or remove sexual feelings, desires or curiosity. Even if a disability does cause a loss of sexual function, the physical and emotional aspects of sexuality continue to be as important for disabled people as for non-disabled people.

People with disabilities can’t have ‘real’ sex.

People are stuck on this notion that sex can be “true” sex only if it involves certain positions or maneuvers. Related to this is the idea that non-vaginal forms of sexual intimacy, like oral sex or masturbation, are not as good as the “real” thing.What makes for real sex is often based on our preferences, values, and attitudes. For some it might be that they actually made love or that they felt present or that it had a certain outcome. You create your own sexual experience, so don’t let anyone dictate what qualifies as intimacy for you.

People with intellectual disability experience the same range of sexual needs and desires as other people. However, they experience many difficulties meeting their needs. They may be discouraged from relieving sexual tension by masturbating. They face a high risk of sexual abuse. They are likely not to be offered the full range of choices for contraception and sexual health screening. Poor education and social isolation may increase their risk of committing sexual offences. However, with appropriate education and good social support, people with intellectual disability are capable of safe, constructive sexual expression and healthy relationships. Providing such support is an essential part of supporting people with intellectual disability.

Disability can affect a man’s sexual health in many ways, depending on the nature of the disability, attitude and ability of the individual, the attitude of society and what support is available.Many disabled men have happy, normal sex lives, but many are prevented from doing so. Some disabilities, such as spinal injuries, limit the body’s ability to function. Some disabilities make sex too tiring or painful. Many disabled men lack the confidence to develop sexual relationships because of their disability. However, many disabled men who cannot enjoy penetrative sex enjoy other sexual activities, such as oral sex, mutual masturbation, sensual touching, affection and emotional intimacy. It is important that disabled men and women are offered practical support, and counselling if they choose it, to feel more able to express their sexuality’

Sexuality and disability as social policy:

SexAbility visits colleges, universities and high schools spreading the word. But getting the attention of those who control government purse strings is another matter.Some physical illnesses and disabilities are likely to have adverse consequences for sexual life. These include illnesses that distort body image, that impair or restrict physical mobility necessary for sexual contact, and/or require treatments that themselves inhibit sexual desire. Where appropriate, it is vital that health professionals should discuss the implications of these conditions for sexual health with older women patients. Older women often report that there is a lack of acknowledgement of sexuality by health professionals.