J Korean Neurol Assoc.
2001 Jul;19(4):342-348.
Sexual Dysfunctions in Stroke Patients
- Affiliations
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- 1Department of Neurology, College of Medicine and Ansan Health Center.
- 2Department of Diagnostic Radiology, College of Medicine and Ansan Health Center.
- 3Korea University.
Abstract
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BACKGROUND: Limited information about the effects of stroke on sexual functioning is available. The purpose of this study was to assess the influences of ischemic stroke on sexual functioning and to evaluate the clinical and psychological factors related to poststroke sexual dysfunctions.
METHODS
Sixty-six male post-ischemic stroke patients and fifty-one age-matched healthy controls completed a self-administered questionnaire on sexual functioning. The localization of ischemic stroke was determined by neuroimaging findings as well as focal neurological signs. The degree of disability and the degree of depression were also assessed.
RESULTS
All domains of sexual functioning, including erectile functions, orgas-mic functions, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction were decreased in poststroke patients. Patients with occipital lesions had a lesser degree of sexual dysfunctions than those with lesions affecting other areas (p<0.05). Also, sexual dysfunctions in stroke patients were related to the degree of physical disability and the presence of depression (p<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
Sexual dysfunctions are common in stroke patients. The reasons for sexual dysfunc-tions after stroke are multifaceted, which include stroke lesion site, physiological factors, and psychosocial factors. (J Korean Neurol Assoc 19(4):342~348, 2001)
