The Ultimate Guide to Sex and Disability

The Ultimate Guide to Sex and Disability addresses intimacy and sexuality for people living with disabilities, chronic pain, and illness. Written by Miriam Kaufman along with co-authors Cory Silverberg and Fran Odette, this comprehensive manual covers both practical and emotional aspects of sex and relationships. The guide includes detailed information about body image, communication with partners, adaptive sexual positions, and handling medical equipment during intimate moments. It tackles topics like dating, BDSM, sex toys, and reproductive health through the lens of disability experience. The authors incorporate real stories and perspectives from disabled people, creating a resource that speaks to diverse experiences and needs. Medical information is presented alongside frank discussions of pleasure, desire, and self-discovery. The book stands as a declaration that disability and sexuality are not mutually exclusive, challenging societal assumptions while providing concrete tools for living a fulfilling intimate life. Its approach combines pragmatic advice with broader advocacy for disability rights and sexual freedom.

Readers appreciate the book's practical, straightforward information about sex and disability, with many noting it fills a significant knowledge gap. Multiple reviewers mention the inclusive approach to different disabilities, orientations, and relationship types. What readers liked: - Clear medical information and safety tips - Personal stories and real examples - Comprehensive coverage of topics - Accessible writing style - LGBTQ+ inclusive content What readers disliked: - Some found certain sections too basic - A few wanted more detail on specific disabilities - Several mentioned dated references (pre-2010) Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (89 ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (31 ratings) Sample review: "Finally a sex-positive book that doesn't treat disabled people as asexual or childlike. The Q&A format makes it easy to find relevant information." - Goodreads reviewer Another notes: "Good introduction but could go deeper into individual conditions and their specific challenges." - Amazon reviewer

The Guide to Getting It On by Paul Joannides A comprehensive manual covering all aspects of sexuality with specific sections addressing chronic illness and disabilities.

The New Sex Bible for Women by Dr. Amie Harwick This guide includes detailed information about sexual health for women with medical conditions, mobility issues, and chronic pain.

Sex and Disability by Robert McRuer, Anna Mollow A collection of essays examining disability theory, sexuality, and the intersection of both through academic and personal perspectives.

The Sexual Healing Journey by Wendy Maltz This resource provides strategies for reclaiming sexuality after trauma or injury with medical and psychological approaches.

Sex After Illness or Surgery by Dr. Sally Kope and Dr. David Roberson A medical guide that addresses sexual function, adaptation, and intimacy following various medical conditions and surgical procedures.

🔹 Author Miriam Kaufman is a pediatrician who specializes in adolescent medicine and has spent decades working with disabled youth, making her uniquely qualified to address both medical and social aspects of sexuality. 🔹 The book was groundbreaking when published in 2003 as one of the first comprehensive sexuality guides specifically addressing people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. 🔹 While written primarily for people with disabilities, healthcare providers frequently use this book as a resource to better understand and address their patients' sexual health needs. 🔹 The guide covers topics often overlooked in traditional sex education, such as adapting sexual positions for various mobility issues and managing sexual activity while dealing with chronic pain. 🔹 Co-authors Cory Silverberg and Fran Odette brought additional expertise to the book - Silverberg as a sex educator and Odette as a disability rights advocate who herself lives with a disability.