ASSESSMENT OF SEXUAL FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH INTESTINAL STOMAS

ntroduction and Purpose: The formation of a stoma is associated with changes in physical appearance, which affects the image of one's own body. Given the high prevalence of sexual dysfunction and limited research on the possible association of body image with sexual function among patients with intestinal stomas, this study aimed to determine the correlation between body image and sexual function and the effect of adjuvant therapy on sexual functioning in patients with stomas. Methods and Results: Data were collected from 201 stoma patients using the Patient Identification Form, Body Esteem Scale (BES), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). The FSFI total scale score correlated significantly (p˂0.05) and positively (r˃0) with the sexual attractiveness scale, weight control scale, and physical condition scale. Among men, the general satisfaction IIEF scale score correlated significantly (p˂0.05) and positively (r˃0) with the physical attractiveness scale, body strength scale, and physical condition scale. Additionally, men who had not undergone adjuvant therapy after colorectal cancer surgery had significantly higher erectile function scores than those who had received follow-up therapy. Women who did not receive adjuvant therapy had significantly higher scores in desire, lubrication, and the total FSFI scale. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that both women and men with a positive body image had higher sexual function valuation compared to those with a negative body image. Moreover, adjuvant therapy in patients with colon cancer contributed to the development of sexual dysfunction.