Article

Sexual dysfunction is common after stroke, but is frequently not
addressed by healthcare providers. The aim of this study was to examine patient
preferences for counseling related to sexuality post-stroke. METHOD: Two hundred
and sixty-eight patients from a stroke registry were provided an anonymous paper
or online survey. Thirty-eight patients responded and completed the survey. The
survey included demographic information, and scales of sexual dysfunction,
fatigue, depression and functional independence. In addition, we queried subjects
about stroke-related sexual dysfunction and their preferences for counseling and
education materials. RESULTS: Most respondents (71%) identified sexuality as a
moderately to very important issue in their post-stroke rehabilitation. Sexual
dysfunction was common, with 47% of respondents indicating that their sexual
function had declined since the stroke. Eighty-one percent reported receiving
insufficient information about sexuality post-stroke, and the majority (60%)
expressed a preference for receiving counseling regarding sexuality from a
physician. A substantial portion (26.5%) of patients wanted to receive counseling
prior to discharge from a hospital or rehabilitation center, with 71% wishing to
receive counseling within 1 year post-stroke. CONCLUSIONS: Many stroke survivors
experience sexual dysfunction and indicate a desire for additional information
and counseling from healthcare providers. Preferences regarding the timing of
such counseling vary, creating challenges for optimizing the delivery of this
care. IMPLICATIONS FOR STROKE REHABILITATION: Sexual dysfunction is common after
stroke, but is frequently not addressed by healthcare providers. Many stroke
survivors experience sexual dysfunction and indicate a desire for additional
information and counseling from healthcare providers. Most stroke survivors
identify sexuality as an important issue in their post-stroke rehabilitation.
Exploring individual stroke survivor counseling preferences periodically over the
course of recovery may be a useful strategy for delivering the desired
information at the most appropriate time.

Langue : ANGLAIS