• Yuuki Na, May Htwe, Chaudhury Abdul Rehman, Tracy Palmer, and Sunil Munshi.
• Department of Stroke, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, NG5 1PB, UK.
• Int. J. Clin. Pract. 2020 Jul 1; 74 (7): e13496.

ObjectivesPoststroke sexual dysfunction (PSSD) is widespread and underrecognised, affecting over half of stroke patients with significant effects on a patients' quality of life. We reviewed the postulated factors contributing to PSSD and explore the underrecognition by presenting a questionnaire study as well as examining existing literature.MethodsA literature search between January 1980 and December 2019 in electronic databases such as EMBASE, MEDLINE and PubMed was conducted. The questionnaire study involved all adult stroke patients attending the outpatient clinic over a 6-month period, containing multiple choice and open questions relating to prevalence, impact and provision provided for patients with PSSD.FindingsPoststroke sexual dysfunction is unlikely attributed solely to the physical effects of stroke. We present a biopsychosocial model summarising the wide range of factors which can contribute to PSSD. Less than 10% of patients receive any advice despite 90% of patients hoping for advice relating to sexual dysfunction in stroke.Interpretation And ImplicationsA multidisciplinary, proactive involvement in screening and managing PSSD is required to successfully manage a commonly forgotten complication of stroke. As part of the wider theme of managing lifestyle factors poststroke (eg, smoking, driving advice, dietary advice, alcohol), the 'sexual function aspect' of patients' lives must not be ignored.© 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

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