Empowerment Through Education: A Look at Women’s Health After SCI
The Oregon Spinal Cord Injury Connection recently hosted an insightful virtual session as part of its 2026 Women’s Health series. The discussion focused on a topic that is frequently overlooked in clinical settings but remains vital to overall well-being: sexual health and intimacy for women living with paralysis. Led by experienced advocates and health professionals, the forum provided a supportive space for women to explore how their bodies and perspectives on intimacy might evolve after an injury.
Prioritizing Preventative Care
A major highlight of the session was the importance of staying proactive with preventative health. Speakers urged participants not to let the complexities of a spinal cord injury get in the way of routine screenings. This includes staying up to date with Pap tests, mammograms, and regular testing for sexual health. Maintaining these checkups is a key part of overall wellness and long-term health.
The Power of Self-Advocacy
Beyond medical facts, the forum served as a powerful reminder for women to be their own best advocates. Whether it is ensuring a clinic has an accessible exam table or speaking up when a provider overlooks a specific concern, self-advocacy ensures that the unique needs of the SCI community are met with dignity and respect.
Redefining Intimacy and Connection
The session emphasized that sexual health is a fundamental component of a fulfilling life. Participants explored the concept of "sensory mapping," which involves discovering new areas of sensation above the level of injury. By shifting the focus from traditional expectations to a broader definition of pleasure and connection, women can regain a sense of body autonomy and confidence.
Practical Health and Comfort
While the conversation was encouraging, it also addressed the practicalities of navigating physical changes. Key highlights included:
Safety Awareness: The importance of recognizing how the body signals discomfort, including being mindful of Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) for those with higher-level injuries.
Adaptive Strategies: Simple adjustments, such as the use of supportive pillows or timing daily care routines, can significantly increase comfort and reduce anxiety.
Open Dialogue: The value of honest communication with partners and medical providers to ensure that sexual health is treated with the same importance as any other aspect of SCI recovery.
Upcoming 2026 Women’s Health Forums
This session was only the beginning of a year-long series dedicated to women’s health. Mark your calendars for these upcoming virtual forums:
May 14, 2026 - Women’s Preventative Care: Navigating screenings and bone health.
August 13, 2026 - Mental and Psychosocial Health: Addressing emotional and social complexities.
November 12, 2026 - Managing Daily Life: Independence, skin care, and preventing complications.
The overarching message of the webinar was one of empowerment. By providing clear information and fostering a community of shared experiences, the Oregon Spinal Cord Injury Connection helped demystify a complex subject. Understanding one's body is a journey of patience and exploration, and resources like these ensure that no woman has to navigate that path alone. If you’d like to find out more and sign up for future Women’s Health Forums, you can do that HERE.
