Partner reaction following ostomy surgery

Abstract

This study was conducted to obtain information regarding sexual adjustment following ostomy surgery and to explore the spouse/partner's reaction upon resuming sexual activities following surgery. Home interviews were conducted with 40 subjects who had a permanent stoma, where the mean length of time since surgery averaged 4.6 years. Retrospective perceptions of the spouse/partner's reactions were varied. A majority reported that their spouses reacted positively to the first sexual experience following ostomy surgery. However a substantial number of subjects stated that their sexual partner reacted with caution ("fear of hurting me") or in a negative manner. This and previous studies indicate that the sexual partner plays a key role in helping the person adjust following ostomy surgery.