Psychosocial and sexual life in morbidly obese individuals following bariatric surgery: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study is to determine psychosocial and sexual life in morbidly obese people following bariatric surgery. Methods: The study was conducted using the “phenomenological research method” on 20 individuals with bariatric surgery. Interviews were conducted on the phone using the semistructured interview method. Data were analyzed using descriptive analysis methods. NVIVO Software, which is a qualitative data analysis tool, was used. Results: Two main themes were determined. The first main theme was postsurgery psychosocial changes, and the subthemes were decreased limitation of movement, other people noticing the weight loss, clothes looking better on me, increased interest from the spouse, increased motivation and sense of happiness, increased self-confidence and socialization, sensitivity to food smell, and unhappiness due to sagging. The other main theme was postsurgery sexual changes, and the subthemes were increased sexual attractiveness, increased sexual performance and desire, decreased sexual desire, increased sexual satisfaction, easier positioning, and decreased fatigue during sexual intercourse. Conclusion: Bariatric surgery mostly resulted in positive changes in the psychosocial lives and consequently, the sexual lives of patients. The psychosocial and sexual lives of patients before and after surgery must be evaluated like other parameters. It is crucial to evaluate the results of the treatment and plan the care.