Sexual function after stoma formation in women with colorectal cancer

stoma formation is performed on many women with colorectal cancer. The physical effects of this are well known and explained to patients by health professionals. Stoma formation also affects sexual function for a variety of emotional and physical reasons, but this appears to be inadequately discussed.

this literature review examined women's experience of sexual function after stoma formation.

five electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed studies in the English language. Ancestry searches were also performed on the reference lists of the literature identified in this search.

three themes emerged from the review: bodily disturbance; intimate relationships; and devaluation of sexuality. Body image is significantly disturbed by stoma formation, affecting self-esteem and satisfaction with the self. Altered bodily function, with odour and sounds from the stoma bag, is distressing to women. Women find a stoma difficult to accept, and partners'/husbands' acceptance of it has a large impact on how they feel about themselves. Sexual function is commonly overlooked in clinical settings, with health professionals prioritising physical and mental health over sexuality.

stoma formation commonly has negative effects on women's sexual function and these should be more thoroughly addressed in healthcare settings. All the publications the author found examined heterosexual relationships and the experience of homosexual women should be studied.