Contraception, Disability and Illness

Female Contraceptive and Reproductive Issues

The sexual and reproductive health needs of women with physical disabilities and chronic health conditions are similar to those of all women; accurate information, accessible health services, supportive and knowledgeable health care providers. However, women with disabilities often encounter a number of obstacles that prevent or limit their access to such services. Issues such as poverty, lack of transportation, reliance on others for personal care, communication difficulties, limited barrier-free facilities, and stereotypes that perpetuate the image of the disabled as being asexual challenge the sexual and reproductive rights of women with disabilities. Since accurate information provides the foundation for effective health care delivery, the following section provides current and concise contraceptive information for a number of specific disabilities and chronic health conditions. The information in each section highlights proven contraindications as well as ongoing research into possible contraindications. Other factors that could influence the choice of contraceptive methods, such as manual dexterity, mobility, and personal hygiene issues are also discussed when appropriate. Following the entries for individual disabilities/conditions is a bibliography of the most recent research literature. It is hoped that the provision of such information with begin to address some of the healthcare inequities that women with disabilities experience.

Last Modified: September 5, 2006