Sexual Life of Male Stroke Patients

Abstract

Background: Sexual dysfunction in stroke survivors is common. However, it is an under recognized complication. Sexual dysfunction is more common among male patients with stroke and 50% or more of stroke survivors are suffering from sexual decline in post-stroke period. Sexual health issues of stroke patients are neglected by the partners as well as health care professionals during the patients′ rehabilitation period. Objective: To explore the experiences of sexual activities after a stroke attack in men Methods: In this phenomenological study, 20 males who were aged between 35-55 years with at least six-month period of post-stroke, visited the physiotherapy and occupational therapy departments at Rehabilitation Hospital, Ragama, were purposively recruited for the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data and thematic analysis was conducted. Results: Three main themes were identified; disease priority rather than sexuality, stroke related sexual inability and deviation of sexual bond with a partner. A priority for the disease rather than sexuality is mostly seen because of thinking of physical disabilities. Patient and partner is giving more attention to the recovery process of stroke and both of them have fear and stress. Stroke-related sexual inability is common due to erectile dysfunction, inability to tolerate sexual position and problems of ejaculation. Deviation of sexual bond was seen due to the changing relationship with the partner, feeling of loneliness and busy schedule of the partner with all households. Conclusions: Male patients with stroke faced various physical and psychological difficulties in sexuality. Eventhough, they can engage in sexual activities, thier sexual bond had been deviated since their partners were busy. It is recommended to have supportive interventions such as educating both the patients and the partners to enhance the sexual bonds for improving the quality of life after the stroke.