Internationale Zeitschrift für Physikalische Medizin und Rehabilitation
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Experience of Sexuality by People with Spinal Cord Injuries in Maputo City-Mozambique

Levy Pinto, Leida Fumo, Teresa Jopela, Teresa Tiago, Edma Sulemane

Background: Sexuality is an integral part of life, constituting a form of interaction with the other and contributing to the individual's well-being and self-esteem. In the case of a person with spinal cord injury, this is affected by the level of the injury, complications caused by the injury itself, psychological issues and cultural aspects.

Objective: This study sought to know the sexuality experience of people with spinal cord injuries in Maputo city.

Methods: This is a qualitative research, with semi-structured interviews conducted with 20 people with spinal cord injuries, using content analysis as a methodological tool.

Results: Our observation revealed that most people with spinal cord injuries have great difficulties in experiencing their sexuality and there is a very large gap to approach the theme by health professionals.

Conclusion: We conclude that, there is a need of patient receives clear and precise guidance on possible changes and adaptive methods after spinal cord injury, which requires the training of health personnel on this topic.