Restarting Sexual Activity After a Traumatic Brain Injury

1. When Can I Start Having Sex Again After a Traumatic Brain Injury?

The following guidelines can be helpful in deciding when to start having sex again.

• The person should be out of post-traumatic amnesia.
• If a person has internal injuries, unstable fractures, spinal injuries or ongoing pain, then it is important to speak to a doctor before starting sex.
• Sexual activities can start while having a catheter, PEG tube* or being in a wheelchair.
• Some medications can affect sexual functioning. This should be checked with the doctor.
• Some people have epilepsy after the brain injury. As long as the epilepsy is stable, there is no risk in having sex.

Most people can start sexual activities when they are ready to go on overnight or weekend leave from hospital. If you have any questions or concerns, check with your doctor.

Many people are able to start sexual activity after the brain injury with no problems. Other people have problems. Improvement after traumatic brain injury is greatest in the first two years and sexual abilities lost due to the brain injury may recover during this time.

*A PEG tube is a feeding tube inserted into the stomach

2. General Principles When Starting Sexual Activity After a Traumatic Brain Injury

• Go slow, taking small steps. Don't rush into sex.
• Keep down the pressure you place on each other. Have fun and don't be too serious.
• Think about what you expect. Share this with your partner.
• Try other forms of giving pleasure to each other. You don't need to try and get back all of your love-making style from before the injury straight away.
• Love-making should focus on pleasure for both partners.

Last modified: Thursday, 20 April 2006