Stroke and Sexual Health: A Systematic Review of Psychological Interventions Aimed at Improving Sexual Health of Stroke Survivors

Abstract

To systematically review the existing literature on the efficacy of psychological interventions aimed at improving the sexual health of stroke survivors. A database search was conducted at MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, EBSCO (APA PsycINFO and APA PsycArticles), and The Cochrane Library. PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews were followed. Manuscripts were screened according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The risk of bias was assessed using the ROBINS-I, Cochrane Collaboration’s Risk of Bias Tool, and the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies (JBI-CACS). From an initial 1053 publications identified, five studies were included in the present study. The study designs of the selected studies included randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, a cross-sectional study, and a case study. The predominant intervention model used in most studies was the PLISSIT model. No studies using a digital-delivered format were identified. This research underscores the potential benefits of tailored interventions for promoting sexual health in stroke survivors and highlights areas for future research.