Sexual health care for people with physical disabilities.
BACKGROUND
People with physical disabilities make up a large and heterogeneous population, many with specific sexual health needs that differ from the general population.


METHODS
To conduct a review of current definitions and statuses relating to the sexual well-being of people with physical disabilities. Medical, social, and behavioral literature was searched and included to address the specific sexual health needs and disparities in this population.


RESULTS
People with physical disabilities encompass a broad population, including those with concomitant mental and cognitive impairments. People with physical disabilities have significant sexual and reproductive health disparities when compared with the general population and higher rates of sexual distress. There are specific sexual health concerns for men and women with physical disabilities and approach to their care needs to be interdisciplinary.


CONCLUSIONS
Sexual health needs for people with physical disabilities should be a priority for healthcare providers. Continued education is essential to ensure disparities and health needs are addressed and treated.
Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
Tami Serene
TS
Rowen
Sorah
S
Stein
Mitchell
M
Tepper
D000328:Adult; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D005260:Female; D054624:Health Status Disparities; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D060728:Reproductive Health; D012737:Sex Factors; D012735:Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D020018:Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D055815:Young Adult
Continuing Medical Education; Disability; Sexual Health