Sexuality & Down Syndrome
Human sexuality encompasses an individual’s self-esteem, interpersonal relationships and social experiences relating to dating, marriage and the physical aspects of sex. Sex education, appropriate for the developmental level and intellectual attainment of individuals with Down syndrome, adds to life quality by engendering healthy sexuality, reducing the risk of sexual abuse, avoiding sexual misunderstandings, preventing disease transmission, preventing unwanted pregnancy and alleviating other problems related to sexual function.

Do Individuals with Down Syndrome Have Sexual Feelings?
In the past, sexuality was not considered an issue for any people with Down syndrome because of the inaccurate belief that intellectual disability (formerly known as mental retardation) produced permanent childhood. In fact, all people with Down syndrome have sexual feelings and intimacy needs. It is important that expression of these feelings in socially acceptable, age appropriate ways be recognized by families and caregivers.