Jung J-H et al. (2008) Sexual dysfunction in male stroke patients: correlation between brain lesions and sexual function. J Urol 71: 99–103

Sexual dysfunction is a well-recognized problem in men with a history of stroke. Previous studies have assessed the association between sexual and erectile dysfunction in patients with cerebrovascular disease, but controversy persists over whether this link is organic or psychological.

In this new study, Jung and colleagues aimed to identify the effect of location of brain lesions on sexual function. They asked 109 patients with a history of stroke, and a control group of 109 age-matched participants, to complete a questionnaire that included questions about sexual desire, ejaculatory function and sexual satisfaction, as well as five questions from the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5).

Erectile-function scores were significantly lower in stroke patients compared with controls, and most patients reported that frequency of intercourse and sexual desire was low after stroke. The researchers found that the 41 patients with multiple brain lesions had significantly reduced erectile function compared with the 30 patients who had one lesion (P <0.01). Patients with a lesion in the right cerebellum had a significant reduction in their IIEF-5 score, which corresponded to ejaculation dysfunction.

Previous studies have found that the right cerebral hemisphere is essential in men's sexual function. The authors conclude that the specific location of stroke lesions could influence sexual desire and sexual dysfunction in men.