Perspectives on poststroke sexual issues and rehabilitation needs

To study the perspectives and experiences of stroke survivors and partners of stroke survivors regarding sexual issues and perceived rehabilitation needs.

Using semi-structured interviews, 15 stroke survivors and 14 partners of stroke survivors (median age of 65 years, range 29 to 85) provided information about sexual issues experienced after stroke and their perspectives on how to address sexual concerns in a rehabilitation setting. A qualitative thematic analysis was applied to transcribed interviews to identify and describe common themes within the data relevant to the aim of the study. A quantitative analysis was utilized to elucidate the frequency of themes by demographic characteristics that were not readily apparent using a qualitative method alone.

Seven themes were identified. Two related to the effects of stroke on sexual life: physical/functional changes and relationship changes. Five related to addressing sexual issues in the process of rehabilitation: (1) difficulty in patients and providers talking about sexual matters, (2) little to no discussion of poststroke sexuality, (3) need for tailoring education to an individual or couple's unique needs, (4) provider rapport and competence, and (5) timing of poststroke sexual education.

Poststroke sexual issues are complex and suggest the need for the development of a biopsychosocial model of education and treatment intervention. Rehabilitation programs need to evaluate the level of training and services provided to address poststroke sexual issues. Development of clinically useful poststroke sexual adjustment assessment tools and interventions is warranted.