2018, Number 1
Meanings of health, body and gender as mediators of the sexualities of people suffering from endocrinologic disorders
Ledón LL, Torres RB, Turcios TSE, Méndez GN, García ÁCT, Fabré RBL, Mendoza TM
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Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 23-33
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ABSTRACT
Introduction. The sexual well-being favors the processes of health in people suffering from endocrinologic disorders. There are few studies aimed at exploring their sexual experiences and related psychosocial aspects, even more so from qualitative designs. Objective. To characterize sexual experiences of women and men suffering from endocrinologic disorders that cause changes in physical appearance, and the aspects they interact with, from their discourses and experiences. Material and methods. Qualitative study conducted with 68 individuals aged 20-45 from the National Institute of Endocrinology in Cuba. Instruments. Data sheet, in-depth interviews, and two projective psychological tests. Processing. Interpretative analysis focused on the understanding of sexual experiences and their meanings. Triangulation of techniques, of theories and of researchers was made. Ethical aspects were considered. Results. 46 women and 22 men with acromegaly, Cushing's syndrome, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, late onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and obesity have participated. They resided in different provinces, with higher and high school education, and steady partners. The individuals limited their sexual experiences to the results of the disease, and were divided into three groups: 1) they reported deep sexual and couple discomforts and difficulties, 2) they reported sexual ailments, palliated by the couple, and 3) they did not report sexual/couple difficulties. Groups 1 and 2 experienced decreased sexual desire and erectile difficulties. Group 1 expressed discomforts because of aesthetic and functional changes, from meanings of loss of masculinity/femininity. Group 2 managed these meanings with the support of the couple. Group 3 reflected less traditional and normative meanings. Sum-up. The sexual experiences of women and men suffering from endocrinologic disorders were diverse and linked to the disease and the meanings about body, gender and health. The more normative and traditional perspectives, especially of gender, were linked to the most intense sexual and couple discomforts.