For a young adult with CP, these years are a time of great change. You will move from high school to life after school, from parental care to independent control, and from the child to adult health systems, all in the space of a few short years. 

You will also be adapting to your new circumstances, which can include developing friendships, having romantic relationships and considering parenthood.

Sexual health can be a difficult topic to talk about for a lot of people, but it can be particularly hard if you are a young adult with CP who has mobility, personal care or communication challenges. Factors such as self-esteem can have an impact on romantic relationships, while some physical symptoms of CP such as mobility issues can affect sexual experiences.

Getting involved in social group activities, both disability-specific and general, will create opportunities for you to connect with your peers, which can help you develop strong relationships and have a healthy self-esteem. This will support good sexual health.

If you feel you would like some advice and support to improve your sexual health and romantic connections, talk to your healthcare team. It is important to have members of the team who you trust and can feel comfortable talking with about your sexual health. Having the right healthcare team will help guide you with your sexual health as your needs change.

To support your sexual health:

• Your GP can provide advice about contraception and disease prevention.
• A social worker or psychologist can provide information about consent, safety, protective behaviours, relationships, sexual wellbeing and self-esteem.
• An occupational therapist can help you with modifications or equipment to support a healthy sexual life.
• A physiotherapist, and to some extent, a speech pathologist, may also be able to support you with the physical aspects of having a fulfilling and active sex life.

If you are considering having a child, it can be a good idea to talk to your healthcare team beforehand, so you are well informed and prepared. They will be able to tell you about the services and support available to you, and refer you to other healthcare professionals, such as a fertility expert, gynaecologist or obstetrician.

Have caring people around you who support your decision and are willing to help out when you become a parent.

Some of this information is provided and produced courtesy of The Future Thinking Project, Ability WA.