Oncology ostomized patients’ perception regarding sexual relationship as an important dimension in quality of life

Abstract

Abstract Introduction For ostomized oncological patients, the physical body alterations affects the quality of life, as the changes in the self-concept are factors that directly affect the sexual life. Objective To analyze the perceptions of ostomized men due to intestinal cancer regarding sexual relations as an important dimension of quality of life, treated at the Ambulatory Care Program for Ostomized Patients of the Health Secretariat of the Federal District, Brazil. Methods Epidemiological-based study, of the analytical type, with a cross-sectional descriptive design, with quantitative and qualitative approach considering the content analysis. The convenience sample included 56 participants. Sociodemographic, clinical, and the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires were used, as well as an individual interview. Data were analyzed by Microsoft Office Excel 2010 and SPSS 20.0 software. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Results The Physical, Social Relations and Environment Domains are correlated with the mean score, statistical significance (p < 0.0001), and the content analysis resulted in five categories: Ostomy, Self-Care, Acceptance, Self-concept, and Companionship. Conclusion Sexuality should be considered as a process of daily living of ostomized individuals due to intestinal cancer.