Social and psychological effects of a stoma on the sexuality and self-image of patients

Abstract

Purpose: Examining the psychosocial impact of stoma surgery on quality of life, sexual health, and body image, and analyzing demographic factors associated with these outcomes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 214 adults with a stoma. Validated instruments, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), the Colorectal Cancer Module (EORTC QLQ-CR29), and the Sexual Health Module (EORTC QLQ-SH22), were used to assess quality of life, body image, and sexual function. Associations between demographic variables and patient-reported outcomes were tested using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Participants reported considerable impairments with fatigue, emotional well-being, sexual interest, and body image. Global health status was significantly lower in women (p = 0.037); female participants also expressed significantly greater concerns regarding partner satisfaction (p = 0.027). Fatigue was significantly associated with age and gender (p = 0.032). Reduced sexual interest was reported by 36.9% of respondents, while 47.7% reported body image dissatisfaction. Conclusion: Stoma surgery is associated with substantial psychosocial and sexual health challenges, particularly in women and older adults. These findings underline the need for tailored postoperative support focusing on emotional well-being, intimacy, and body image.