A new study has found stroke survivors want more information about sex and intimacy as part of their recovery - but rarely receive it. Over 9,500 strokes are experienced by New Zealanders each year.
Photo: befunky.com
Stroke is the country's second single biggest killer, and the leading cause of serious adult disability. Auckland City Hospital occupational therapist Sian McGee conducted the first-of-its-kind research, asking 41 patients between the ages of 36 and 90 about their preference for receiving information about sex and intimacy.
She says most of the patients surveyed expected and wanted their doctors to speak to them about the subject of sex, but few did. Clinicians, in turn, said they didn't feel confident in giving the right information.
Sian McGee is presenting her study at the Stroke Society of Australasia conference which begins in Christchurch today.
