Sexual self perception of women with intestinal stoma

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate how women with intestinal stoma feel about their sexuality. Before the introduction of the stoma they analyze their own sexuality and how they deal with it as well as their main needs, fears and wishes. To reach these goals, seven women with intestinal stoma were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. These interviews had been previously approved by an ethical committee - 196/96 resolution. Data was analyzed using Badin's theory as reference. Three categories came out of this analysis: definition of sexuality, sexuality before the stoma and dealing with sexuality after the stoma. We learned that the definition of sexuality is unique for each interviewed woman. Before surgery, most of them dealt satisfactorily with their sexuality. Therefore, it is quite possible to infer that those sexual problems they mentioned were generated by the stoma. In the beginning, the acceptance is more difficult due to the radical changes in self concepts and body changes seem to be the main cause of sexual difficulties. Women with temporary stoma tend to better accept such condition, and the partner's reaction is also fundamental for the patient's own acceptance. Providing these women with adequate information before the surgery could be a way of minimizing negative feelings. These patients should also understand that their sexual possibilities have not ended after the stoma, and that sexuality is still very important in their lives.