Addressing the gaps in post-stroke sexual activity rehabilitation: patient perspectives

Sexual dysfunction is common but often under-recognised or neglected after stroke. This study sought to identify the existing methods for providing information and discussion on post-stroke sexual activity, and perceived gaps from the patient perspective. A sample of 1265 participants who had been admitted to any of the four major public hospitals in Tasmania, Australia, with stroke (International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10) group B70) were mailed a survey assessing their experiences with, and opinions about, receipt of post-stroke sexual activity education. One hundred and eighty-three participants (14.5%) responded; of these, 65% were male and the mean age was 69.1 years. The results indicated that, whilst over 30% or participants wanted to receive information related to post-stroke sexual activity, only a small proportion of participants (8.2%) had received this. In terms of the method of receiving this information, participants preferred to receive this from a doctor in a private discussion with or without their partner present. The delivery of post-stroke sexual activity information and education is inconsistent and fails to meet patient needs within major Tasmanian hospitals, highlighting the importance of developing sound, routine, post-stroke education and information processes.