Stroke can impact every aspect of a survivor’s life. Whilst a decline in sexuality has been reported, there is little research investigating this. Three researchers from University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, set out to study sexuality and sexual dysfunctions in stroke survivors, as well as the factors affecting this.
Adebisi Isiaka Hammed1, Obinna Ogbonna Adani1 & Oluwakayode Stephen Aje1
1Department of Physiotherapy, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria
Despite reported declines in sexuality after stroke, there is little research investigating possible changes. Three researchers from The University of Benin Teaching Hospital, decided to carry out a project to better understand sexuality in stroke survivors.
The researchers utilised medical records from patients undergoing physical rehabilitation within the Department of Physiotherapy at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital. One hundred and seven participants completed the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire Short Form (CSFQ-14). This questionnaire examines illness and medication-based changes in sexual functioning. There are separate versions for each sex.
“Of 152 stroke survivors we contacted, 107 agreed to take part in the study.” the researchers explained “once participants agreed to take part, they carried out the CSFQ-14, which we then used to calculate whether participants were experiencing sexual dysfunction.”
The Research Team (L to R): Adebisi Isiaka Hammed, Obinna Ogbonna Adani and Oluwakayode Stephen Aje.
Results of the questionnaire indicated a clear prevalence of sexual dysfunction in the stroke survivors investigated. In fact, nearly 90% of respondents to the questionnaire were identified as showing sexual dysfunction.
“When we looked at the results of the questionnaire, we noted that almost all of our cohort were experiencing sexual dysfunction” explained Hammed, Adani and Aje “we also noted that younger stroke survivors may be predisposed to sexual dysfunction.”
There were no clear sex differences, with rates of sexual dysfunction similar in both females (91.5%) and males (87.5%). However, prevalence of sexual dysfunction did show a negative correlation with age, suggesting younger stroke survivors may be more likely to show dysfunction. Results of the questionnaire also identified a possible role of spouse’s profession.
“While we cannot be sure what is driving the relationship between spouse’s profession and sexual dysfunction in our cohort, it could be that those with higher income jobs are more readily able to seek out-of-pocket healthcare services which may improve outcomes after stroke.’ the researchers explained.
The researchers hope that their study will help highlight just how common sexual dysfunction is in stroke survivors, improve understanding of factors driving it, and further may help facilitate treatment options.
“Our research suggests that sexual dysfunction is incredibly common, and sexual counselling should be considered, where needed, in the management of stroke survivors” said Hammed, Adani and Aje “in particular it may be useful to pay attention to age and spousal occupation when considering sexuality after stroke.”
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