OUR SEXUALITY: PEOPLE WITH PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL DISABILITIES
Thursday, March 12, 2009 | 7:58 amPeople with Physical Disabilities
The sexuality of people with physical disabilities is often denied, but people with physical disabilities have the same needs and desires as able-bodied people—whether they are paralyzed, disfigured, blind, or deaf, or suffer from a congenital illness like cerebral palsy or cystic fibrosis. Because we know that sexual pleasure is in our minds and emotions and all parts of our bodies, it is very sensible to assume that women and men with physical disabilities are sexual.
Disabled people should be encouraged to explore their sexuality and enjoy physical pleasure however they are able. In some instances, attendants of severely disabled women and men may be very helpful. They may assist positioning partners for sex play. On the other hand, some people with disabilities may have limitations or neediness that exposes them to the risk of sexual abuse from partners or attendants. Similar risks face able-bodied women whenever their relationships are greatly imbalanced in terms of power. All bodies are special and should be respected, including those that are disabled.
People with Emotional or Developmental Disabilities
People with emotional or developmental disabilities also have an especially difficult time in enjoying their right to be sexual. Far too often, their families and friends mistakenly think that they are not competent enough to make decisions for themselves regarding how, when, and with whom they may enjoy sex play Paid caregivers, both within the home and in residential facilities, are sometimes under strict orders to stop anyone from engaging in sexual behavior—even masturbation!
Caregivers often fear the consequences of unintended pregnancy in the belief-—founded or unfounded—that emotionally or develop-mentally disabled people in their care may be incapable of caring for children. This fear has often led to forced sterilization. It is often difficult to balance what may be in the best interest of the disabled person with what may be in the best interest of the caregiver, institution, or family. The question of sterilization in such cases should be discussed with a trusted health care advisor.
We all have a right to express our sexuality however we want, just as long as our behavior is consensual. Nobody has the right to hurt anyone else, either physically or emotionally—or by depriving him or her of responsible sexual pleasure.
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(posted in Men's Health-Erectile Dysfunction)
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