Search for a command to run...
Introduction: Over half of stroke patients experience sexual dysfunction as a result of an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Stroke survivors establish that sexual activity and sexual expression are fundamental activities of daily living. Yet, sex education and treatment are not a primary component of post-stroke treatment and rehabilitation. The purpose of this research is to validate the need for sexual dysfunction education and treatment following a stroke and to identify and address barriers to receiving the needed education. Methods: Interviewed local stroke survivors and their significant others. Interviewed interdisciplinary in-patient and out-patient treatment team members including physicians, nurses, occupational therapists and physical therapists. Compared the stroke survivors’ post-stroke deficits to the education received from healthcare providers. Researched sexual dysfunction educational resources available for both healthcare providers and stroke survivors. Researched importance of sexual activity and sexual expression to a person’s quality of life. Results: Seventy-six percent of people age 57 - 80 believe that sex is an important aspect of a romantic relationship. Greater than 50% of stroke survivors experience sexual dysfunction. Healthcare providers seldom provide education on sexual dysfunction following a stroke because of limited resources, prioritizing other functional limitations (feeding, dressing, mobility) and a reluctance to discuss. Conclusions: In conclusion, sexual dysfunction education and treatment are essential to the quality of life of stroke survivors and their significant others. Despite sexual activity and sexual expression being a fundamental activity of daily living, education and treatment for sexual dysfunction following a stroke is very limited. Effective educational materials and training will empower healthcare providers to successfully address sexual dysfunction and improve their patients’ quality of life.