Introduction
Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a commonly overlooked issue following ischemic stroke (IS), influenced by various risk factors including social, psychological, and biological factors. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with SD in adult male patients who have experienced an IS.
Methods
A descriptive observational cross-sectional study was conducted in Bogotá, Colombia, involving adult male IS patients. Sociodemographic, medical history, pharmacological history, substances consumption, and time since stroke data were collected. Clinical assessments were performed using the NIHSS score, modified Rankin score (mRankin), pain score, and mood evaluation (Beck inventories). The Arizona Sexual Experience (ASEX) scale and the frequency of sexual encounters were used to assess SD.
Results
50 males included, mean age 63.2 (±9.7) years. The most prevalent medical comorbidities were arterial hypertension (84%) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) (46%). Anxiety or depression were identified in 48%. The mean scores for the NIHSS, mRankin, and pain were 6, 1, and 1, respectively. The average time from IS to clinical assessment was 6.5 months. Sexual dysfunction was observed in 18 (36%) subjects. Age (OR 1.12, 95% CI: 1.02–1.247) and location of the IS in the cortico-subcortical region of the parietal, temporal, or occipital lobes (OR 13.59, 95% CI: 1.58–405.784) were associated with SD.
Conclusion
SD affects more than one-third of male patients with IS, age, and IS location identified as key risk factors. Comprehensive assessment of sexual function should be incorporated into this patients.
