On intimacy, sexual activities and exposure to sexual abuse among children and adolescents with mobility impairment

Aim: The aim was to describe experiences of intimacy and sexual activity and exposure to sexual abuse among children and adolescents with mobility impairment, and to relate these experiences to socio-demographic data, disability characteristics and well-being. Methods: This study included semi-structured interviews with 141 children and adolescents aged 7-18 years with mobility impairment. Interpersonal experiences of intimacy and sexuality, socio-demographic data, disability characteristics and well-being were registered. Results: About half of the children and adolescents in the study had been in a boy- or a girlfriend relationship, and about a fifth had an ongoing relationship. Of the adolescents, 15% had at least one experience of a sexual relationship. Whereas no particular sexual dysfunction was reported, 15% had concerns about their future sexual activities, presumably related to mobility impairment. A history of sexual abuse was reported by 7% in the age cohort of 13-18 years. The socio-demographic and disability-related features had a marginal influence on the experiences of intimacy and sexual activities. Conclusion: Several aspects of sexual health are not fully realized for children and adolescents with impaired mobility, and there is a need for specialized sexual health care services to protect the sexual rights of this group.