Incidence of sexual dysfunction in TBI patients during the early post-traumatic in-patient rehabilitation phase

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study is to find whether sexuality and intimacy dysfunction are already present at the early rehabilitation phase of TBI patients. Methods: Forty-four consequent severe TBI patients were studied. The GCS and the duration of unconsciousness determined the initial severity of the injury. Patients' function regarding motor, language, cognition and behaviour were assessed by an interdisciplinary team. Sexuality and intimacy were evaluated by using a special closed questionnaire. Results: Regarding self confidence 81% of patients described themselves as having high or average self confidences; 78% described themselves as having high or average feeling of being sexually appealing; mood level was average or high in 80% of patients. Only 7.7% of patients reported having sexual dysfunction at that phase of rehabilitation. Conclusions: Sexual dysfunction in Severe TBI patients is uncommon at the early post-traumatic phase. It is suggested that sexual dysfunction appearing during later stages of recovery is most probably related to reactive behavioural changes.