Exploring Sexual Satisfaction and Intimacy After T6 and Above Spinal Cord Injury: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Authors

Aron Williams, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
Karen Aranha, University of Texas Medical BranchFollow
Angela Labrie Blackwell, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

Background: With T6 and above SCIs, there is a greater chance of sexual function and satisfaction being impacted; however, individuals lack the clinical support and resources needed for rehabilitation in this area. From an occupational science and occupational adaptation (OA) perspective, examining the multifactorial needs and the lived experiences of individuals with SCI T6 and above who have attained sexual satisfaction post-injury would aid in better serving the rehabilitation needs of this population. Methodology: This study explored the process that individuals with SCIs underwent to achieve sexual satisfaction and intimacy post-injury. An interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) methodology was used to guide the data collection and the analysis. Data included semi-structured interviews (N=6) and a field journal maintained by the primary investigator. Findings: The three superordinate themes that emerged and reached data saturation included, (1) a journey with acceptance and recovery, (2) finding one’s community is vital for recovery, and (3) intimacy trumps sexual activity. Conclusion: Reaching sexual satisfaction is a process and a journey for individuals with high level SCIs. They are dependent on clinicians and community enablers to meet their goals of intimacy and sexual satisfaction.

Publication Date

Summer 8-22-2024

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Spinal cord injuries, Sexual satisfaction, Intimacy, Occupational adaptation, Rehabilitation, T6 and above

Medical Subject Headings

Spinal cord injuries, Sexual satisfaction, Intimacy, Occupational adaptation, Rehabilitation, T6 and above

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy | Social and Behavioral Sciences

Comments

Poster presented at the in-person OTD Capstone Symposium held online at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on August 22, 2024.

Recommended Citation

Williams, A., Aranha, K., & Blackwell, A. L. (2024, August 22). Exploring Sexual Satisfaction and Intimacy After T6 and Above Spinal Cord Injury: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2024/47