Perceptions about the sexuality of women with fibromyalgia syndrome: a phenomenological study

Aims: The aim of this study was to explore and understand the perceptions and experiences of women with fibromyalgia syndrome regarding their sexuality.
Background: Fibromyalgia syndrome is a chronic pathology, which compromises a woman’s physical, mental and emotional health. Although concerns related to sexuality are commonly reported, research has tended to focus on the physical symptoms.
Design: An interpretive qualitative research methodology using Gadamer’s philosophical hermeneutics was carried out.
Methods: This qualitative study explores the sexuality of women with fibromyalgia syndrome. A focus group and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 women with fibromyalgia syndrome. Data were collected between April - June 2014. Participants were recruited until findings reached saturation.
Findings: Three themes define the perception of sexuality for these women: (i) Physical impact: don’t touch, don’t look; (ii) Sexuality and identity: fighting against their loss; (iii) Impact on the relationship: sexuality as a way of connecting the couple.
Conclusion: Despite limitations, sexuality is important for the identity and quality of life of women with fibromyalgia syndrome. Together with the physical symptomology, guilt, fear and a lack of understanding compromise the coping process. Women need the support of their partner, their socio-family environment and health professionals. Nurses can aid the successful adjustment to sexual problems related to fibromyalgia syndrome.

This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Matarín Jiménez T.M., Fernández-Sola C., Hernández-Padilla J.M., Correa Casado M., Antequera Raynal L.H. & Granero-Molina J. (2017) Perceptions about the sexuality of women with fibromyalgia syndrome: a phenomenological study. Journal of Advanced Nursing 73(7), 1646–1656. doi: 10.1111/jan.13262, which has been published in final form at http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/jan.13262. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.