Introduction: Clinical guidelines emphasize the importance of addressing sexual concerns post stroke but research indicates that healthcare providers rarely address sexuality. Consequently many stroke survivors rely on online information, however the usefulness of this information is not always clear.
Objectives: To identify and review printable educational materials from healthcare, government and consumer organisations regarding sexuality post stroke that are available online.
Methods: Google search engine was utilized to locate and review education materials online published between 2014-2024. Search terms included variations of “sex” combined with “after stroke,” followed by terms such as “factsheet” or “brochure”. Relevant material was then analysed using thematic and enumerative analysis.
Results: Seventeen educational materials (120.5 pages) published between 2015-2023 were reviewed, averaging 7 pages each. Materials addressed intimacy (82.35%.), sexuality (52.94%), and relationships (88.24%). Additionally, 29.41% of resources explored relationships in the context of dating or being single. No resources addressed homosexuality with 11.74% providing Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender+ contact information in resources. One resource (5.88%) included homosexual imagery. Sexual expression was covered in 11.76% of materials, but none addressed gender expression. Contraception was discussed in 47.06% of articles, while 23.52% addressed reproduction and 35.29% covered incontinence.
Conclusion: There are limited high quality educational materials readily available to support sexuality after stroke. Most materials are biased towards heterosexual persons. Health professionals should consider collaboration with consumer organisations to create more inclusive materials.