Sexual, bladder and bowel problems in people with spinal cord injury in rural KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a life-changing experience that comes with multiple health challenges such as bowel, bladder and sexual health problems. Studies on the experiences of people with SCI based in rural South Africa are scarce.

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the experience and long-term care needs related to sexual, bowel and bladder problems in people with SCI in a rural setting.

Method: An exploratory qualitative design was employed. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with people with SCI living in rural KwaZulu-Natal. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded. The content analysis steps were followed to identify categories and themes.

Results: A total of 12 individuals with SCI were interviewed. Frustration was the main theme that emerged with three sub-themes: types, management and effects of sexual, and bladder and bowel problems on individuals with SCI. The expressed long-term care needs were medication specific to SCI conditions, health information on secondary health conditions and prevention care, and resources such as nappies and quality catheters.

Conclusion: The findings confirm that secondary health conditions such as bowel, bladder and sexual health problems affect the well-being of people with SCI in rural settings. Prevention care is urgently needed.

Contribution: Patient education information on bowel, bladder and sexual health problems, and access to medication is imperative to support self-management practice.