Disability, sexuality and parenthood – challenging stereotypes and fostering inclusivity
In the realm of discussions about disability, there are often taboo subjects that remain largely unaddressed.
One such topic is the intersection of disability, sexuality and parenthood. Conversations surrounding disability and sexuality have historically been fraught with stigma and discomfort.
“Disability and sex are seldom mentioned in the same sentence. As a disabled person, you can often be viewed as asexual and completely left out of the conversation when it comes to sex and intimacy.” (“In 2021, sex and disability are still taboo. What are we so afraid of?” 2021)
Societies have struggled to recognise the sexual agency and desires of individuals with disabilities, often relegating them to asexual beings devoid of romantic or sexual needs. However, such narratives are both outdated and harmful.
Individuals with disabilities, including those with spinal cord injuries, have the same fundamental rights to intimacy, relationships, and sexual fulfilment as anyone else. Acknowledging and respecting these rights is an essential step towards fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.
“Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-altering event often accompanied by a host of anxiety-provoking questions and concerns in the minds of affected individuals. Questions regarding the ability to resume sexual activity, partner’s satisfaction as well as the ability to have biological children are just a few of the unknowns facing patients following the devastating reality that is SCI.
“As a result of advances in SCI research over the last few decades, providers now have the knowledge and tools to address many of these concerns in an evidence-based and patient-centred approach.
“SCI can impair multiple components involved in sexual function, including libido, achieving and maintaining an erection, ejaculation, and orgasm. Many safe and effective fertility treatments are available to couples affected by SCI. “(National Library of Medicine, 2022)
Stereotypes and misconceptions often overshadow discussions about parenthood within the context of disability. There is a pervasive belief that individuals with disabilities are inherently unfit or incapable of being parents, a notion that disregards their autonomy and agency.
Contrary to these stereotypes, many people with disabilities lead fulfilling and nurturing family lives. However, accessing resources and support systems tailored to their unique needs can be challenging, perpetuating the misconception that parenthood is inaccessible to them.
Advancements in reproductive medicine and assistive technologies have opened up new possibilities for individuals with disabilities who wish to have children.
“In helping people to have the children they desire, assisted reproductive technology (ART) challenges conventional definitions and understandings of what constitutes a family. The nuclear family is still often considered as an entity defined only by biological ties, even though living arrangements with children (families) have become increasingly diverse in recent decades, with unmarried families, adoptive and stepfamilies, and families with same-sex parents becoming more and more common.
“ART adds to this growing complexity by providing treatments, to single people and gay and lesbian couples as well as to heterosexual couples to whom the conventional definition of infertility applies.” (“Families formed through assisted reproductive technology: Causes, experiences, and consequences in an international context,” 2022)
To foster greater understanding and inclusivity, it is imperative to engage in conscious conversations about disability, sexuality and parenthood. By challenging stereotypes, dispelling myths, and amplifying the voices of individuals with disabilities, we can create a more inclusive society where everyone is empowered to pursue fulfilling relationships and family lives, regardless of ability.
As we continue to advocate for greater awareness and support for individuals with disabilities, let us remember that disability does not diminish one’s capacity for love, intimacy or parenthood. Through open dialogue and genuine empathy, we can break down barriers and create a world where all individuals are celebrated and supported in their pursuit of happiness and fulfilment.
Social media has been a powerful tool for sharing experiences and challenges surrounding disability, sexuality and parenthood. With more and more individuals with disabilities showcasing how awesome they are, it may take years to break down some of the barriers and change stereotypes. However, individuals with disabilities and these topics will not be taboo in the future.
Discover unique families and individuals by following them on social media:
- https://www.instagram.com/thatdeafamily/
- https://www.instagram.com/chelsiehill/
- https://www.instagram.com/wheelchairpapi/
- https://www.instagram.com/a.race.against.blindness/
- https://www.instagram.com/ability_mom/
- https://www.instagram.com/itswheely.bry
- https://www.instagram.com/clanhuntington/
- https://www.instagram.com/cambrykay/
- https://www.instagram.com/martynabiri/
- https://www.instagram.com/disability_dame/
To foster greater inclusivity, it’s essential to challenge stereotypes and amplify the voices of individuals with disabilities. Advancements in reproductive medicine and assistive technologies offer new possibilities for individuals with disabilities who wish to have children, challenging conventional definitions of family and infertility.
It’s crucial to recognise that people with disabilities have the same rights to intimacy, relationships, and sexual fulfilment as anyone else.
