The Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Sexuality: Experiences of Obese Men in Turkey

Abstract

Sexuality is an important aspect of quality of life and also a critical part of a relationship. Because social and cultural factors may affect sexual life, it is believed that the effects of bariatric surgery on male sexuality in different cultures need to be evaluated. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore sexual experiences of Turkish obese men who underwent bariatric surgery. Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 12 men who underwent bariatric surgery at a training and research hospital in Istanbul, Turkey. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. This sample of men described sexual dysfunction that lead to relationship problems before surgery. Physical health problems, difficulties at work such as stigma, and sexual problems were the factors that men decided to have bariatric surgery. Obese men stated that satisfaction in both sexual and emotional life improved after surgery. Along with the overall quality of life, improvements in the sexual life of obese men are one of the important effects of bariatric surgery that should be known.