Experiences of sexual rehabilitation post-stroke among LGBTQI+ stroke survivors and their partners: a qualitative study

Introduction Little is known about sexual rehabilitation for LGBTQI+ stroke survivors and their partners. This study explored the experiences of LGBTQI+ stroke survivors and their partners in relation to post-stroke sexual rehabilitation.Methods A qualitative phenomenological research design was used to explore participants’ experiences with sexual rehabilitation post-stroke. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom video conferencing. Data analysis was completed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA).Result(s) Interviews were completed by stroke survivors (n = 18) and partners of stroke survivors (n = 5) in relation to their experiences of sexual post-stroke. Three main themes arose from the data analysis named ‘sexuality addressed post-stroke’, ‘Negative interactions with health professionals’, and ‘Sexuality absent in Rehabilitation’.Discussion This paper provides new evidence into experiences of stroke survivors and partners not previously explored within stroke rehabilitation literature. The findings from this study can assist in supporting the development of inclusive and effective rehabilitation interventions that address sexuality for persons of diverse sexualities and genders. Future research should focus on underrepresented populations within the LGBTQI+ such as transgender, bisexual and intersex persons as well as partners of stroke survivors. This will help to better understand their specific experiences of post-stroke sexual rehabilitation.