ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026A2121 SEXUAL HEALTH IMPAIRMENT AMONG POST-STROKE PATIENTS: AN OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Abstract Background and aims Sexual dysfunction after stroke is common yet underrecognized, affecting desire, performance, and self-image for patients and partners. We evaluated sexual activity and function six months post-stroke, characterized body image, and examined links with mood and quality of life. Methods In a prospective observational cohort, 35 patients discharged after stroke were contacted at six months. Participants completed emailed questionnaires: IIEF and CSFQ-14 for men, FSFI and CSFQ-14 for women; Body Image Scale; Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS); and EuroQol (EQ-5D). Primary outcomes were sexual activity and sexual-function scores; secondary outcomes were body image, mood, and quality of life. Analyses were descriptive and correlational. Results 77% had ischemic stroke; deficits were mild and functional status remained good at discharge (median mRS ≈1). Before stroke, 91.4% reported a satisfactory sex life; 71% resumed sexual activity. No sex differences were observed in age, partnership, stroke features, NIHSS, mRS, EQ-5D, or HADS; men trended toward full Barthel independence (95% vs 71%; p=0.055). Women showed lower sexual-function scores (FSFI median 21.8; CSFQ-14 median 39.5), whereas men’s scores were preserved (IIEF median 48; CSFQ-14 median 49). Having a partner and being sexually active were associated with higher sexual-function scores. Poorer body image clustered with unemployment/disability and incontinence (p=0.005–0.050). HADS scores correlated with EQ-5D domains and body image; better erectile function related to favorable body image (ρ=−0.61). Conclusions Most survivors resumed sexual activity, yet nearly half screened positive for dysfunction, especially women. Multidisciplinary post-stroke care should include sexual-health assessment and counseling. Conflict of interest "Monica Serrano: nothing to disclose", "Inés García: nothing to disclose", "Carla Box: nothing to disclose", "Xabier Urra: nothing to disclose"