Sexual pursuits of pleasure among men and women with spinal cord injuries

Following a spinal cord injury, sexual relationships, intimacy, and pleasure remain important pursuits for individuals. This literature review examines the subjective experiences of sexual intimacy for men and women with spinal cord injuries, as well as their intimate partners. Several themes emerged that span gender differences and nationality differences. Specifically, studies indicate that despite individual struggles with neutering internal and external perspectives, they can lead satisfying sex lives that may be more creative and mutually pleasurable than their sex lives prior to the injury. This review also provides suggestions to improve sex education and therapy following a spinal cord injury.