Talking about Sexuality in Stroke Individuals: The New Era of Sexual Rehabilitation

Abstract

One of the largest causes of mortality and disability worldwide is stroke. In the last twenty years significant objectives have been achieved in the early and chronic treatment of motor and cognitive dysfunctions, increasing the quality of life in patients and their caregivers. However, there is an unresolved clinical issue that remains: sexual dysfunctions. Multiple etiologies, including organic (such as lesion localization, premorbid medical problems, and drugs) and psychosocial (such as fear of recurrences, loss of self-esteem, role shifts, anxiety, and depression), are associated with sexual deficits. In this perspective review, we reported the last piece of evidence about this crucial topic which drastically affects the quality of life of these patients. Indeed, although patients may often not disclose their sexual concerns, literature demonstrates that they seek help concerning this issue. On the other side, clinicians working in the rehabilitation field are not always comfortable or prepared to deal with sexuality and sexual function in neurological patients. A new phase of the training course should be launched including different physicians, nurses, rehabilitation specialists, and social workers, to learn how to deal with topics related to sexuality. As a result, professional sexual counselors should now become a structured part of stroke settings and rehabilitation with new effective tools (i.e., PLISSIT model; TDF program) for improving quality of life.

The Role and Correction of Sexual Dysfunction as a Component of the Quality of Life in Patients Operated on for Cerebral Aneurysm Rupture

“…Sexual function and activity tend to decrease with age [11]. In addition to physiological involutional changes in the reproductive system, this is often associated with comorbidities and factors such as the need for continuous medication, changes in lifestyle, and relationship dynamics.…”

Sexual Functioning and Sexual Health in Female Patients following Stroke: A Scoping Review with Implications for Rehabilitation

“…Moreover, health professionals do not consider sexual functioning as an integral part of the rehabilitation process, although sexual wellness contributes to the well-being and quality of life of both patients and their spouses [ 35 , 36 , 37 ]. Then, knowledge of human sexuality, as well as myths and beliefs surrounding patients with a disability, is fundamental for any healthcare professionals working in the rehabilitation field [ 38 ]. Finally, the treatment of SD in female patients with stroke is another important issue to define.…”