Spinal cord injury and fertility. Let us be clear!
There may be some concerns about the sexual and reproductive disorders affecting men and women with a spinal cord injury. We would like to be clear about it in this post and dispel some possible myths.
As we know, a spinal cord injury affects the nerves of the intravertebral canal and therefore depending on the injury level, so some organic processes will be affected differently regarding sexual response such as orgasm and ejaculation or some issues may arise regarding the seminal duct.
Fertility in men and women with a spinal cord injury
Women usually present fewer problems than men since their childbearing capacity is not altered by the injury. However, they should undergo a closer medical exam during pregnancy to prevent sensitivity issues which may cause damage.
Most men, on the contrary, do experience fertility damage which may worsen over the time. Although many men with a spinal cord injury are not able to ejaculate naturally, they are not necessarily infertile since there are other treatments and methods to obtain sperm and ejaculation.
Methods for seminal collection
Thanks to the methods for seminal collection, an ejaculation can be induced when a patient is affected by erection disorders or complications in the seminal tract. There are several applicable options depending on each patient:
- Mechanical methods
- Prostatic massage
- Rectal electrostimulation
- Surgical methods
- Pharmacological methods
Is fertility possible?
Yes, it is. Although each patient’s individual case should be analysed, the specialized medical staff will do everything in their power by applying the appropriate treatment.
- They will examine the sperm type.
- They will examine the presence of sperm cells.
- Insemination or IVF are very effective treatments if they are an option.
You should keep a positive and open mind after a spinal cord injury since it is very important to explore and enjoy sexuality because sexual intercourse can also be completely pleasant.
