Disease Burden and Sexual Life in Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the burden of disease and sexual life experiences in patients with fibromyalgia using a phenomenological approach. In the study using phenomenological research method, semi-structured in- depth interviews were conducted with 20 fibromyalgia patients who applied to the neurology outpatient clinic of a state hospital in a province in southern Turkey. Criterion sampling method, one of the purposive sampling methods, was used to reach the sample group. Interviews continued until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were recorded on a voice recorder after obtaining the necessary permissions from the patients and then transcribed. The data of the study were evaluated using thematic analysis. The study was conducted and reported according to the COREQ checklist. Data analysis revealed two main themes (effects of the disease and sexual problems and coping) and five sub-themes (mental, physical, social, problems and coping). As a result of the study, it was determined that the patients experienced serious physical, mental and social problems due to and their sexual life was also negatively affected. Individuals experience significant problems related to sexual life due to fibromyalgia. Since fibromyalgia is a multifaceted disease, professional evaluation of sexual life in patients and diagnosis of sexual dysfunctions are of great importance in terms of improving quality of life.