Coping strategies and its relationship with sexual dysfunction in adults receiving haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract Aim To explore relationship coping strategies and sexual dysfunction, and the predictive factors of sexual dysfunction in adults receiving haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Background Sexual dysfunction is a common problem in adults receiving haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. This problem may be related to psychological and physiological conditions. However, the association between psychological conditions such as coping strategies and sexual dysfunction is not clearly understood. Design This study is a cross‐sectional study. Methods The data were collected from November 2021 to July 2022 using the General Information Form, Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale: Female and Male Versions, and the Ways of Coping Inventory. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate the relationship between coping strategies and sexual dysfunction. Reporting Method STROBE checklist. Results A total of 110 adults, 67 on haemodialysis and 43 on peritoneal dialysis, who met the eligibility criteria were included in this study. The optimistic, helpless and submissive approach sub‐dimensions of coping strategies had positive correlation with sexual dysfunction in adults receiving haemodialysis. Among the sub‐dimensions of the ways of coping inventory, helpless approach was positive predictor and seeking social support was negative predictor of sexual dysfunction in adults receiving haemodialysis. The coping strategies were not predictors of sexual dysfunction for adults receiving peritoneal dialysis. Conclusions This study showed that helpless coping strategy increases sexual dysfunction, and seeking social support decreases sexual dysfunction in haemodialysis. Implications for the profession and/or patient care According to this study, social support is effective coping strategy for reducing sexual dysfunction. Education and support for effective coping strategies should be provided to dialysis patients by healthcare professionals at the start of dialysis treatment. Effective coping strategies should be integrated into routine care standards and nursing or hospital policies. Patient or Public Contribution Adults receiving haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis were involved in this study.