R - SEXUAL HEALTH & RELATIONSHIPS
Clinicians should develop a sexual health education and treatment plan with the individual based on their sexual history, physical exam findings and preferences. (Adapted from CSCM 2010, p.309; Level C)
Clinicians should educate individuals with SCI about the effects of prescription medication (over-the-counter and herbal remedies) on sexual response and fertility. (Adapted from CSCM 2010, p.309; Level C)
Clinicians should educate individuals with SCI about the effects of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, as well as unhealthy eating habits and obesity, on sexual response and fertility. (Adapted from CSCM 2010, p.309; Level C)
When counselling on the sexual health of an individual, clinicians should consider socio-cultural and religious influences and do not make assumptions about sexuality based on age. (Adapted from CSCM 2010, p.313; Level C)
Use professionally approved educational videos and vetted websites when providing sexual health education using media. Institutions should provide sexual health educators institutional access to these resources. (Adapted from CSCM 2010, p.313; Level C)
Clinicians should ensure premenopausal women with SCI have proper information regarding the effect of injury on menstruation and discuss contraception options. If menses have not resumed one year after injury, an endocrinology referral should be sought by the primary care provider. (CAN-SCIP 2020; Level C)
Education should be provided to men with SCI that reflex erections could occur with either sexual stimulation or nonsexual stimuli. (Adapted from CSCM 2010, p.320; Level B)