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Sexuality and Intimacy After Burn Injury

A burn injury can change how your body looks, feels, and functions.

For some, these changes may be permanent. While early recovery focuses on survival and physical healing, sexuality and intimacy are also essential parts of life, and they may emerge as key concerns during long-term recovery. 


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Understanding Sexuality and Intimacy

Sexuality includes how you express yourself and connect emotionally or physically with others. It can involve gender identity, sexual orientation, desire, and behavior. Intimacy may or may not involve sex—it can mean emotional closeness, physical affection, or feeling understood by another person. 

Common Challenges After Burn Injury

Burn survivors may face a variety of physical and emotional challenges related to sexuality and intimacy. 

Physical effects may include:

  • Skin sensitivity, scarring, or reduced sensation 

  • Changes in energy levels or stamina 

  • Difficulty with positioning due to contractures, amputations, or weakness 

  • Side effects from medications or hormone changes 

Emotional and psychological effects may include:

  • Concerns about body image or feeling “abnormal” 

  • Fear, sadness, shame, or anxiety 

  • Changes in self-esteem or gender/partner roles 

  • Stress or depression affecting desire or connection 

Strategies for Reconnecting

You are not alone. Sexuality and intimacy are still possible—and can even evolve—after a burn injury. Here are some ways to adjust and reconnect with yourself and your partner: 

Explore new ways to connect

Intimacy doesn’t have to mean sex. Touch, cuddling, or simply being close can help rebuild connection.

Communicate openly

Talk about what feels good, what doesn’t, and what you may be ready to try. Use writing or professional support if needed.

Be flexible

Some activities may not feel the same—give yourself and your partner time to discover what works now.

Keep romance alive

Plan time together that is not focused on caregiving. Go on a date, enjoy humor, or share small moments of joy.

Practice self-awareness

Pay attention to your own needs and desires. These may change—and that’s okay. 

If Your Partner Is Also Your Caregiver

Maintaining a romantic connection when your partner is also providing care can be challenging. Try these ideas: 

  • Be as independent as possible with self-care 

  • Schedule time for activities that separate caregiving from romance 

  • Express appreciation 

  • Ask for outside help when possible 

If You're Single

You can still experience intimacy and have fulfilling relationships. Starting something new may bring anxiety, especially about visible or hidden scars. Give yourself time and focus on open communication. Surround yourself with people who support and affirm you. 

When to Seek Help

Questions about intimacy are normal. Support is available from professionals who understand sexuality and trauma. 

Medical providers

can help with physical or hormonal changes

Therapists and counselors

can guide emotional recovery and relationship dynamics

Occupational therapists

can advise on safe positioning during intimacy

Sex therapists

specialize in concerns around intimacy, connection, and sexual health

Related Resources

Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors

Support groups, workshops, and educational tools

Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center

Factsheets and videos on body image, social interaction, and emotional recovery

AAECT Referral Directory

Find a Sex Therapist

Society for Sex Therapy and Research (SSTAR)

Find a Sex Therapist

Disclaimer 

This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Talk to your health care provider about concerns related to sexuality and intimacy after burn injury. 

Attribution 

Adapted from the MSKTC factsheet: Sexuality and Intimacy After Burn Injury, with contributions from burn survivors and medical professionals.