People with lower limb amputation and their sexual functioning and sexual well-being

Abstract

Purpose: Following a lower limb amputation, people may experience limitations in performing sexual activities. However, only little research efforts have been devoted to unravel how people experience their sexuality after such an amputation. Therefore, the purpose of the current study is to describe how people with a lower limb amputation experience (changes in) their sexual functioning and sexual well-being. Methods: A qualitative approach with semi-structured interviews was used. Results: In total 26 interviews with persons with a lower limb amputation were performed. Thematic analysis of the data resulted in eight themes derived from the interviews: importance and description of sexuality; changes in sexual functioning; changes in sexual well-being; practical problems concerning sexuality; self-image; feelings of shame; role of the partner; communication about sexuality with professionals. Conclusions: Participants in this study indicated some problems concerning sexual functioning and/or sexual well-being. Some of these problems were of practical nature, and participants would have appreciated some information about how to handle this kind of practical sexual problems. However, such information should not be given at the beginning of the rehabilitation process, as at that time sexuality is not a priority for all patients.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Persons with a lower limb amputation may be confronted with (practical) problems concerning their sexual functioning and/or sexual well-being.

• It is therefore important that professionals keep bringing up the issue of sexuality during the rehabilitation process.

• However, such information should not be given at the beginning of the rehabilitation process, as at that time sexuality is not a priority for patients.

• Lower limb amputation
• sexual functioning
• sexual well-being

Acknowledgements

Data collection was facilitated by GM Rommers, MD, PhD & AH Vrieling, MD, PhD (UMC Groningen, the Netherlands), MA Paping, MD (Rijndam Rehabilitation Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands) and C Kiekens, MD (University Rehabilitation Center Pellenberg, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium).

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the article.