Sexuality represents one of the basic dimensions of human existence, which
is channelled through sexual and gender identification and role, sexual
orientation, eroticism, emotional commitment, satisfaction, and
reproduction. Sexuality is also linked to many significant health problems,
especially in the area of reproductive and sexual health. Sexual health is
the condition of physical, emotional, mental, and social wellbeing that is
linked with sexuality. Knowledge about sexual health, contraception and
selection of contraceptives, and the risk of sexually transmittable
diseases is not only relevant for individuals? sexuality; it?s also
important for encouraging the use of health services and other forms of
support that are necessary to protect youth from sexually transmittable
diseases and the maintenance of sexual and re-productive health. When it
comes to sexuality and care of reproductive and sexual health, some groups
are especially vulnerable. Bearing in mind the specific conditions women
with disabilities grow up in and their dependence on assistance and support
from other people, satisfying their needs for partnership, sexuality, and
parenthood becomes unattainable for many, or it takes place under the
control of professionals or family members. In this context, people with
visual impairments are part of a vulnerable group, acknowledging that visual
impairment leads to limitations in everyday life, autonomy, and quality of
life to its full potential. The purpose of this article is to describe the
phenomena of sexuality and sexual health among people with visual
impairments, and to point out the existing international and national
normative frameworks relevant to the sexual health of people with
disabilities. Existing legislative acts acknowledge the right to a normal
sexual life, as well as to the care and maintenance of the sexual health of
people with disabilities. However, there are many obstacles and limitations
that hamper the practical application of these rights: health issues,
communication problems, lack of privacy, people?s acceptance of the
inhibition of their own sexuality, or their acceptance of the labelling and
normalisation of their situation. Even considering the existence of the
regulation, the system of support for maintaining and improving the sexual
and reproductive health of women with disabilities is not developed enough.
The lack of literature relating to this topic shows that its importance is
not recognised enough among the relevant actors, including organisations
that advocate for people with disabilities. Realising the existing general
legal framework requires the will of policymakers, who could enact and
implement specific bylaw regulations, as well as activating the societal
actors relevant to this field.
Sexual health (excluding reproductive health, intimate partner violence and gender-based violence) and COVID-19: a scoping review
