Sexuality and Reproduction

The period following an injury is initially marked by asexuality, followed by a period of discovery while rehabilitation takes place, and emotional support is very important during this process. Re-adapting to the new situation is extremely influenced by social and emotional aspects, in which the individual experiences negative feelings such as anguish, disbelief, anxiety and despair at the need to restart their sex life. This is a social representation study designed to describe the experiences of women with spinal cord trauma (SCI) about sexuality and reproduction in these conditions. Eleven women affected by SCI took part in the study, all of whom were members of the Rio Verde Association for the Physically Disabled (ADEFIRV) in the city of Rio Verde, Goias. Data was collected using a sociocultural questionnaire and free evocations, as well as a semi-structured interview. Analysis of the results showed that the meanings attributed by the participants to the experience of sexuality and reproduction after SRM were related to specific concerns and experience.