[The effect of permanent ostomy on body image, self-esteem, marital adjustment, and sexual functioning].
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of permanent ostomy on body image, sexual functioning, self-esteem, and marital adjustment.


METHODS
SCID-I outpatient forms were administered to 52 subsequent patients that underwent permanent colostomy or ileostomy operations, and 40 of them that did not fit any of the diagnostic criteria for psychiatric disorders were then administered a sociodemographic data questionnaire, and the Body Image Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and Golombok Rust Sexual Functions scale. The control group consisted of 20 age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers.


RESULTS
Body Image, Rosenberg Self-Esteem, and Dyadic Adjustment Scale scores were higher in permanent ostomy patients compared to controls, indicating more ostomy-related disturbance. Sexual functions were found to be impaired as well, except impotence and rapid ejaculation parameters. Complaints of anorgasmia were more frequent among female colostomy patients. Body image, and the touch, communication, and frequency parameters of sexual functioning were less disturbed in male patients than in females. Female patients with a psychiatric history experienced vaginismus problems more frequently. Patients with a history early childhood separation from parents had lower self-esteem scores and more frequently avoided sexual activity. Following ostomy surgery, the frequency of male impotence decreased over time.


CONCLUSIONS
Permanent ostomy causes impairment in perceived body image, dyadic adjustment, and sexual functioning.
Kiliç
Esra
E
Psikiyatri AD., Cerrahpaşa Tip Fak., Genel Cerrahi AD, Istanbul. mdesra2003@yahoo.com
Taycan
Okan
O
Belli
Ahmet Korkut
AK
Ozmen
Mine
M
D001828:Body Image; D003125:Colostomy / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012649:Self Concept; D020018:Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / Q000523:psychology*; D019529:Sexuality; D012917:Social Adjustment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires