Changes in sexuality post-stroke

This study examined whether patients experienced sexuality changes after stroke. The authors concluded that sexuality post-stroke varies between patients and should be discussed with healthcare providers.

Stroke can cause long-term physical and mental impairments. This can affect patients socially and psychologically. In particular, this can impact intimate relationships of stroke patients. While this is considered as an important factor affecting quality of life for stroke patients, there is very little data on the sexuality of stroke patients available. Healthcare professionals therefore have very little information to provide to their patients.

This study explored the sexuality of stroke patients up to 6 years after stroke. 12 patients were included and interviewed.

Most patients experienced a change in their sex life post-stroke. Reasons for decreased sexual desire included pain or tiredness. Patients who had positive changes in sexual activity felt there was increased intimacy. Patients who experienced negative changes made attempts to improve their sexuality by setting aside time for intimacy and communicating openly with their partner. Mostly patients attributed their decreased sexuality to age and stage of life rather than to stroke complications. Patients also underwent counselling and recorded how well their healthcare provider communicated sexuality after stroke. Most patients did not receive any information regarding sexuality from their healthcare professional.

The authors concluded that sexuality in stroke patients varies between individuals and should be addressed by healthcare professionals.

This study included very few patients, none of which had severe post stroke disabilities.