Background and aim(s)
Existing literature does not include the experiences of LGBTQI+ stroke survivors and their partners and their unique experiences of sexuality post stroke. This study explores how stroke impacts sexuality for LGBTQI+ stroke survivors and partners of LGBTQI+ stroke survivors.
Method
Design: A qualitative phenomenological research design was used with Interpretative Phenomenological data Analysis (IPA). Participants were recruited from 5 different countries which had stroke guidelines that recognize the importance of addressing sexuality post stroke. Participants included 23 adults who identified as LGBTQ+, stroke survivors (n=18) and partner of a stroke survivor (n=5). Interviews were conducted via Zoom (video conferencing) and analysis completed by the lead author with the research team reviewing data tables to ensure accuracy. The design and reporting were informed by the COREQ checklist.
Results
Participants included gay men (n=12), lesbian women (n=5), queer women (n=2), a queer transgender woman (n=1), a queer man (n=1), a bisexual non-binary person (n=1) and a pansexual transgender man (n=1). Four main themes were identified: 1. Impact on sexual identity, 2. Changes in sexual identity and behaviour, 3. Relationships post-stroke and 4. Engagement with community.
Conclusion
There is an impact to sexuality as identified by participants which was found in domains such as sexual functioning, relationships and social and community identity. Future research needs to explore impacts on sexuality further in the underrepresented populations such as people who identity as transgender, bisexuals and other sexual and gender diverse identities to better understand their experiences of sexuality post stroke.