Publication: Lived experience and impact of oral PDE5 inhibitor – A qualitative study among diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction
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Date
2022
Authors
Ramali, Khairul Nazli
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Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a common medical condition and it has many complications, including erectile dysfunction. Aim: To explore patients experience prior to initiating treatment, and the impact of PDE5 inhibitors on sexual well-being and marital relationship among diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction. Methods: Using the in-depth interview methods, this qualitative study following phenomenological analysis was conducted on 15 diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction The inclusion criteria of this study are aged 18 years and above, and on PDE5 inhibitor for at least three months from the registration list of Men’s Health Clinic, Klinik Rawatan Keluarga, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia. Those patients with anatomical penile deformities, a history of undescended testes, premature ejaculation, and on a supplement to help erectile dysfunction were excluded. The interview data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and entered into the computer software Nvivo. The transcriptions were analysed using thematic analysis by referring to the sexual script theory. Results: We identified three themes from this study. Diabetic patients with erectile dysfunction develop sexual distress due to loss of manhood, inadequacy as a husband and consequences to their wife. Alternative therapy is believed to cure erectile dysfunction, and they perceive the benefit of conventional medicine after the failure of complementary medicine. PDE5 inhibitors significantly regain sexual strength and self-esteem, restore couple satisfaction, with some patients facing the negative side of medication. Clinical Implications: Assessment and exploring the impact of erectile dysfunction for men with diabetes mellitus should be initiated by those healthcare professionals who directly support men with diabetes mellitus during consultation. Strengths and Limitations: This study is valuable in the clinical setting and can provide a fundamental understanding of the many factors that affect the issue of erectile dysfunction and results in the emotional imbalances of the individuals. However, we have difficulties discussing the sexual issue in Malaysia, as it is taboo. Conclusion: This study found that erectile dysfunction significantly impacts the sexual life of men with diabetic mellitus and that PDE5 inhibitor helps to improve their sexual function
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Keywords
phosphodiesterase inhibitors , qualitative research