Positive sexuality in men with spinal cord injury

Abstract

Study design: Prospective study. Objectives: To analyze determinants of sexual pleasure in men with spinal cord injury (SCI). Setting: Centre Bouffard-Vercelli, Cerbere, France. Methods: Face to face interviews with men with chronic SCI who had an active sex life with a female partner, reliable erections permitting intercourse, and sought regular counselling with a sex therapist. Questionnaires: the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and a modified Sexual History Form. Results: Thirty-three men were enroled. IIEF subscores were high for erectile function (mean 27.6/30), sexual desire (mean 8.8/10), intercourse satisfaction (mean 11.9/15) and overall satisfaction (mean 8.7/10). Overall satisfaction was significantly related to the level (p < 0.01) but not the severity of the lesion (p = 0.59), positively correlated with intercourse satisfaction (p < 0.001), negatively with age (p < 0.05) and age at injury (p < 0.01), but not with time since injury (p = 0.80). Orgasm was reported by 14 men (42%), and correlated strongly with antegrade ejaculation (p < 0.001), but not with overall satisfaction (p = 0.81). All men, except one, described enjoyable, long foreplay. Intercourse was associated with sensations of pleasure for 30 men (90%). After intercourse, 26 men (78%) experienced sensations of fulfilment, and 30 (90%) of relaxation. Most men expressed frustration, primarily in the case of absent or intermittent ejaculation or orgasm. Men described their female partners as taking more initiatives, and having a satisfactory sex life. Conclusions: A positive and satisfying sex life is achievable by the men’s willingness to adapt their sexual behaviour coupled with the reward of physical pleasure experienced during intercourse.