Abstract

Background: A stoma is commonly indicated in the treatment of colorectal cancer and may affect erectile function, psychological well-being, and quality of life in male patients. However, this issue has received limited attention in clinical practice in Vietnam. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and identify associated factors among male patients with a stoma. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 75 male patients with a stoma at Da Nang Oncology Hospital from April 2025 to November 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire in combination with the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5). Results: The mean age of the study participants was 51.68 ± 7.19 years. After surgery, 84.0% of patients experienced reduced sexual activity. According to the IIEF-5, 90.7% of patients had erectile dysfunction, including 50.7% with moderate-to-severe erectile dysfunction. Most patients reported anxiety related to the stoma bag during sexual intercourse (66.7%) and body image dissatisfaction (68.0%). The majority of patients had never received postoperative sexual counseling (89.3%). Psychosexual counseling was significantly associated with erectile dysfunction status (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Erectile dysfunction is a common condition among male patients with a stoma. Psychosexual counseling should be strengthened as part of comprehensive care for this patient population.