Ms Jolie Chantharath1, A/ Prof Jacqueline Raymond1, A/ Prof Roxanna Pebdani1,2
1Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia, 2Centre for Disability Research and Policy, Sydney School of Health Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
Biography:
Jolie Chantharath is a final-year Master of Philosophy student with an interest in women's health, healthcare and rehabilitation. Jolie has a background in rehabilitation counselling.
Abstract:
Aim:
This study aims to gain an understanding of the impacts of ageing and menopause on sexuality in women with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Methods:
A phenomenological approach using semi-structured interview questions was employed with consenting participants, who met the criteria of being aged 45 years and over, having lived with SCI for at least one year, identifying as a woman or non-binary person (with lived experience with female hormones), and fluent in speaking and reading English. Thematic analysis was employed to identify and analyse patterns within the data.
Results:
Preliminary analyses demonstrated that women had different sexual experiences physically, psychologically, and emotionally as they aged with SCI. Factors that influenced these areas included the effect of menopause symptoms, years lived with SCI, values and priorities towards sexuality and sexual health before and after SCI, and experiences with healthcare professionals.
Conclusions:
Women with SCI have varied experiences with ageing and menopause that have impacted their sexuality. Healthcare and educational resources specific to women with SCI and menopause need to be readily available for this underrepresented population group. Their overall health needs to be treated holistically.