Post-stroke Sexual Dysfunction in Men: Epidemiology, Diagnostic Work-up, and Treatment

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability throughout the world. Although physical and cognitive impairments after stroke have been well studied, little is known about sexual functioning and satisfaction in these patients, despite being crucial aspects of quality of life. Post-stroke sexual dysfunctions seem to be common; in men affected by stroke, a decline in libido and poor or curtailed erection and ejaculation are frequently observed. Sexual disorders after stroke are thought to be due to multiple etiologies, including both organic (e.g., lesion localization, premorbid medical conditions, medications) and psychosocial (e.g., fear of recurrences, loss of self-esteem, role changes, anxiety and depression) etiologies. Thus, the exploration of sexual dysfunction and sexual counseling by trained professionals should be part of stroke rehabilitation.