The transition from adolescence to adulthood can be a time of growth and success, as well as difficulty. For people with spina bifida, it is especially important to begin planning for transitions in childhood so they are able to lead independent lives as adults. Young adults with spina bifida can provide or manage much of their own care. Some examples include:. The Spina Bifida Association has created materials to help patients maintain healthy skin.

Disclaimer: This fact sheet is for education purposes only. Please consult with your doctor or other health professional to make sure this information is right for your child. Meeting new people and trying new things will create opportunity for you to meet someone special. Remember, the more independent you are the easier it will be to start and maintain a relationship.

Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as to the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination, and violence. Peer-reviewed health literature indicates that people with Spina Bifida have varying levels of satisfaction with their sex lives, with approximately half reporting dissatisfaction with their sex lives. Sexual activity in people with Spina Bifida is delayed. The receipt of sexual education, especially as it relates to Spina Bifida, has been found to be inadequate in multiple studies. Both young men and young women wanted more information from their health care providers especially about sexual education specific to living with Spina Bifida.