From taboo to practice: Integrating sexual health in rehabilitation nursing

Filipe Teixeira, Nelson Guerra, Joana Marques, Sandy Severino and Luís Sousa

SAP Health and Policy, 2026

Abstract: Sexuality is recognized as an essential dimension of human life, with a direct impact on quality of life. However, it remained a taboo topic in society and healthcare, especially in the context of disabled persons. The aim of this article was to analyze the challenges of integrating sexual health into Rehabilitation Nursing care for disabled persons. A theoretical-reflective review was conducted, identifying cultural, social, and educational barriers that hindered clinical integration. It was found that, despite the competencies attributed to the Specialist Nurse in Rehabilitation Nursing, the lack of specific training and clear guidelines limited their intervention. Several Sexual Counseling Models (e.g., PLISSIT, BETTER, Check In, Affirm, Clarify, and Answer Tool) are identified as crucial tools to facilitate communication and clinical action, though their application requires adaptation. Training and health education proved to be key strategies for promoting sexual health literacy and ensuring the sexual rights of disabled person. It was concluded that integrating sexual health into clinical practice depends on professional training and the deconstruction of entrenched myths. Future research was suggested to evaluate the impact of Rehabilitation Nursing interventions on the experience of sexuality, as well as the effectiveness and applicability of Sexual Counseling Models in different clinical and sociocultural contexts.

Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:cwf:shpart:shp2026415

DOI: 10.56294/shp2026415

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