Effects of sexual counseling on sexual function and sexual quality of life of women with permanent intestinal ostomy

Abstract Background Patients with an intestinal ostomy may experience significant sexual dysfunction that may have adverse impacts on quality of life. Appropriate sexual health counseling can be beneficial for these patients. Aim This study was conducted to determine the effect of sexual counseling on the sexual function and sexual quality of life of women with a permanent intestinal ostomy. Methods For this experimental study, 60 female patients with a permanent intestinal ostomy were selected through convenience sampling and then randomly assigned to either the intervention or control groups. Patients in the intervention group received four 90-minute individual counseling sessions based on the PLISSIT (permission [P], limited information [LI], specific suggestions [SS], and intensive therapy [IT] model over a period of 4 weeks). The control group underwent routine training. Data were collected by use of a demographic information questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index, and the Sexual Quality of Life Female questionnaire. Both groups completed the questionnaires before and after the intervention. Outcomes Study outcomes were the resulting data for the Female Sexual Function Index and the Sexual Quality of Life Female questionnaire. Results The results revealed a significant increase in the mean score of sexual function in the intervention group after counseling (P = .001). No significant difference was observed in the mean score of sexual quality of life between the 2 groups before the intervention (P > .05). In contrast, a significant increase was noted in the intervention group’s sexual quality of life after the intervention (P = .001). Clinical Implications The results indicate a need to sexual counseling interventions directed toward sexual function and sexual quality of life in women with permanent intestinal ostomy. Strengths and Limitations Study strengths include utilization of the PLISSIT model for sexual counseling as an invaluable roadmap for healthcare professionals, systematically addressing patient needs within a tailored framework, and prescribing appropriate strategies over 4 distinct phases. Limitations include the use of convenience sampling and no follow-up duration. Conclusions This study demonstrated the efficacy of counseling in enhancing sexual well-being of women with permanent intestinal ostomy.