Sexuality in stroke care: A neglected quality of life issue in stroke rehabilitation? A pilot study

Although there is a substantial body of literature on the physical and psychosexual consequences of stroke, there is a paucity of empirical studies on the experiences of rehabilitation professionals in addressing sexuality issues with patients during the rehabilitation process. This is the first small-scale pilot study in Northern Ireland, informed by a comprehensive literature review, which explores the experiences of health and social care professionals in addressing sexuality issues with patients and their perceptions of the training they require in this area of stroke rehabilitation. Questionnaire survey data were collected from community and hospital based stroke professionals in a Health and Social Services Trust in Northern Ireland The study groups comprised nurses, doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech and language therapists and social workers. The findings revealed that although the majority of staff had been asked for advice on sexuality issues during rehabilitation, most of them had received no training in this aspect Of stroke rehabilitation since joining stroke services. The findings suggest that all rehabilitation professionals need to become more knowledgeable about sexuality issues in stroke care and could benefit from further education and training in comprehensive sexual health care.