Sexuality in Women with Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Metasynthesis of Qualitative Studies
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Published:2023-10-19
Issue:20
Volume:11
Page:2762
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ISSN:2227-9032
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Container-title:Healthcare
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language:en
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Short-container-title:Healthcare
Author:
Granero-Molina José12ORCID, Jiménez-Lasserrotte María del Mar1ORCID, Dobarrio-Sanz Iria1ORCID, Correa-Casado Matías1, Ramos-Rodríguez Carmen3, Romero-Alcalá Patricia4
Affiliation:
1. Nursing, Physiotheraphy and Medicine Department, University of Almería, 04120 Almería, Spain 2. Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago 7500000, Chile 3. Fibromyalgia Association of Almería, 04006 Almería, Spain 4. Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Almería, 04120 Almería, Spain
Abstract
Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a nonarticular rheumatic syndrome which presents as chronic musculoskeletal pain, stiffness and body aches. FMS affects approximately 2.5% of the population, mostly women. FMS causes physical and psychological problems and reduces quality of life. The objective of this study is to identify qualitative evidence about experiences of women diagnosed with FMS about their sexuality. Methods: Metasynthesis of qualitative studies. The search included articles published between 2000 and June 2023 on the PubMed, WOS, CINAHL, SCOPUS, and SCIELO databases. Results: 450 articles were found through the initial search, of which, only nine fulfilled the criteria and were included in the thematic synthesis. From this analysis, three main themes emerged: (1) “I want to, but I can’t”: FMS causes a shift in feminine sexuality. (2) Resetting sex life and intimacy. (3) Taking charge of a “new sexuality.” Conclusions: Women with FMS suffer from limitations of their sexuality that affect their partner. Pain, stiffness and a loss of desire make sexual encounters difficult. Becoming aware of this and striving not to lose their sexuality is key to coping with this problem. Women and their sexual partners can change roles and encourage communication, games, foreplay or touching. The use of lubricants, physical exercise and complementary therapies, along with social, professional and partner support, are key to coping with FMS.
Subject
Health Information Management,Health Informatics,Health Policy,Leadership and Management
Reference58 articles.
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