The patients value their sexuality after stroke: Their first expectations

Abstract

Aim.- To study the effect of stroke on the patients' sex life. A prospective study carried out in “Anagennisi” rehabilitation center. Material.- Fifteen stroke patients (6 women and 9 men, aged 47-84) enrolled in inpatient rehabilitation program. Patients with previous stroke, aphasia or problems in perception and communication were excluded as well as patients who were sexually inactive for more than a year. Method.- Personal interview- questionnaire. Results.- Eleven patients were married, 3 widowers, 1 divorced. Eight patients still had desire for sex and 7 hadn't, 7 patients felt the same for their physical picture and 8 felt different. The importance of sex in their life after stroke: 3 very important, 5 fairly important, 2 a little important, 5 not important at all. Possible sexuality problems: pain (1 patient), mobility problems (3 patients), erection problems (1patient), fear (1 patient), positions during sex (1 patient). Eleven patients will not look for a new partner and 4 will. Information needs: 4 wished to be informed and 11 didn't. Conclusion.- The first results of the prospective study show an important impact of stroke on the patients' sexuality during the first period after stroke. More detailed results will be possible to integrate research.