Barriers and facilitators to sexual health help-seeking in patients with early-onset Parkinson’s disease: a qualitative study in Ethiopia

Globally, up to 88% of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients experience one or more types of sexual health (SH) problems. However, nearly 80% of PD patients with sexual dysfunction (SD) did not seek formal help. Evidence lacks on why PD patients with SD do not seek help in socio-culturally diverse countries like Ethiopia. Therefore, this qualitative study aims to identify the barriers and facilitators of SH help-seeking among early onset PD patients in Ethiopia. In-depth interviews were conducted with 14 early-onset PD patients (8 males, 6 females; age at onset of 26 - 55 years) attending follow-up treatment in tertiary hospitals. Thematic analysis revealed various intrapersonal, interpersonal, institutional, and cultural barriers to seeking sexual health support. Facilitators included increased awareness and knowledge about the importance of SH services, and sexual partner support. Participants emphasized the need for healthcare providers to initiate discussions on SH and experience sharing with other PD patients to encourage help seeking. This study underscores the importance of addressing cultural sensitivities in SH communication, advocating for a proactive role from healthcare providers to ensure need-based services.