Research
- Sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction with sex are common in both male and female stroke patients and in their spouses.
- Psychological and social factors seem to exert a strong impact on sexual functioning and the quality of sexual life after stroke (Korpelainen et al 1999, p715)
- The aetiology or location of the stroke and the gender or marital status of the patients are not associated with changes in post-stroke sexuality( Korpelainen et al 1999, p718)
- Sexual dysfunction is common following stroke. However, it is often neglected during rehabilitation along with the psychological issues that may affect sexual dysfunction
- Following a stroke, patients often have low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, fear of another stroke, rejection by a partner or spouse, impotence, problems communicating due to aphasia or unwillingness to communicate, and role changes
- Mobility problems, fatigue, hyper-sexuality (increased sexual urges), previous illnesses and medication also have a negative effect on sexual dysfunction (Thompson and Walker 2011, p2)
