Hi,

I actually think this is an important discussion and hope others contribute their own experiences.

Next month will be the 6th anniversary of my new life with MTBI and still experience sexual problems. As a female (now 44) I can give you my perspective and some links for you to check out that I hope offer some help. Side note - if his injury was covered by workers comp, he can re-open the case if it was closed. A visit to an attorney might be very beneficial for his medical/financial future.

50 - 60% of TBI patients experience some form of sexual difficulties post-injury. While this can be an embarrassing issue to discuss, we are not alone. Whether you’re on either side of this equation it is frustrating. Part of being a whole person includes our sexual health and when it’s compromised we feel incomplete. At least I do

You mention your partner is physically capable, but not interested. Why? What is the root issue? Determining the root issue helps determine who to see for help: neuropsychiatrist, neuropsychologist, endocrinologist, sex therapist, etc.

FIRST - Is he interested in finding a solution? If he has no desire then it's difficult to work out the solution. If yes, he needs to ask himself questions like: Do I feel sexual desire and/or arousal? Is any particular part of sex too overwhelming for my senses to handle? Is any part of sex enjoyable? Can I reach orgasm? Sex, like light or sound, can be too overwhelming to the senses – just like light or sound. Experimenting together can be beneficial, but can also be frustrating to both partners. My last boyfriend found it frustrating and a "blow to his manhood" that I could not reach orgasm. Lack of communication doomed my relationship so be gentle with each other.

There are many reasons and solutions, but he needs to know the underlying reason why there is no interest. The brain is the biochemical "manager" of sexual function, barring a physical issue. The reason for sexual issues can range from the physical location of the brain injury, psychosocial, emotional, to biochemical disruption in the neurotransmitters that are responsible for sexual desire.

The frontal lobes play an important role in sex. From your description he hit his left frontal and/or temporal lobe. My accident caused my head (frontal & temporal lobes) to hit the steering wheel then the left side hit the driver’s side window – double whammy of external bruises, but MRI negative just the same. Personally, I believe the injury location has much to do with the dysfunction. However, we can be regionally limited to experts or research studies that can help.

My 6 years of experience says this is a dynamic process that evolves over time with or without medication. I found meds can help, but make you feel like a guinea pig trying to find the right med's or combo. My story evolution: No sexual desire at all; sexual desire returned, but physical sensation was too overwhelming so I avoided sex altogether; sensitivity lessened, sex became enjoyable, but now I can’t reach orgasm. Since I can’t reach orgasm - sex is frustrating and leaves me aching with a hole inside physically and emotionally. Having no current partner I decided not to try the medical solutions since a lack of desire is rather beneficial when you’re single. Lol A silver lining!

I wish you both the best!

~Kristy

Links:

http://www.stanleyducharme.com/resou...bin_injury.htm



This has a lot of information to read:
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/b..._sexual_issues

http://www.brainline.org/content/200...g_pageall.html