**Spinal Cord Injuries & Sexuality: Tips from an OT & Sexologist**

On today’s show we have Norwegian Occupational Therapist and Sexologist, Vanja Rizvic. We discuss the unique role of occupational therapy in pelvic and sexual health, the impacts of spinal cord injuries on sexuality, and share several practical strategies to navigate sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction. From sensory play to reframing sexuality perspectives and fostering communication, Vanja guides us on an empowering journey of embracing our sexuality through curiosity and courage to enhance our sexual pleasure and well-being.

Guest Bio:

Vanja holds a bachelor's degree in Occupational Therapy, and has since 2017 worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. He started his career at a hand therapy department, working with rheumatological illnesses and orthopedic injuries. Vanja has also worked in physical medication and rehabilitation, and currently works at one of Norway's biggest hospitals for rehabilitation medicine. He works specifically with spinal cord injuries, and has a special interest in sexual health and pelvic floor therapy. Vanja is a proud alumn of Lindsey vestals OT pioneers and is a sexual health advocate in the Norwegian OT community.

Connect with Vanja on IG: @vvnnjjaa https://www.instagram.com/vvnnjjaa/

Video Chapters:

- 00:00 Meet our video sponsor, Mainspring Medical featuring Vacurect
- 00:40 Podcast Guest Introduction, Occupational Therapist and Sexologist Vanja Rizvic
- 02:15 The role of occupational therapists in sexuality and sexual health
- 02:30 Domains of occupational therapy for sex: context, potential, and narratives
- 07:03 Sexual dysfunction as a trojan horse, the whole-person approach to improving sexual issues
- 09:09 Supporting sexual function through relationship
- 13:20 What is a spinal cord injury
- 14:32 How a spinal cord injury impacts sex
- 15:50 Autonomic dysreflexia considerations during sex
- 17:40 Primary, secondary, and tertiary impacts to bladder, bowel, and sexual function with as spinal cord injury
- 21:25 Orgasm and ejaculation with a spinal cord injury
- 23:45 Sexual function versus sexual satisfaction
- 29:00 Sex and sexual identity as an occupational narrative
- 33:05 3 tips to explore with for sexual dysfunction

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RESOURCES:

💡 Looking for solutions for erectile dysfunction? Check out our episode sponsor, MainSpring Medical featuring the Vacurect:

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Free sex and pelvic pain resources https://drsusieg.com/resources

Online Pelvic Pain Relief Program for Men https://drsusieg.com/pelvic-pain-in-men-online-program

CONNECT WITH ME (DR. SUSIE) AND TEAM:

Website: https://drsusieg.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.susieg/ and https://www.instagram.com/lainie_ot/

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Disclaimer:

This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding treatment, medications/supplements, or any medical diagnoses. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is in no way to substitute the advice of a licensed healthcare professional.

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