Maintaining Harmony Despite the Agony; How Sundanese Men and Javanese Women with Sexual Dysfunction Due to Diabetes Mellitus Establish Sexual Relationship with the Couples

Abstract

Objectives: This study investigates the experiences of Sundanese men and Javanese women with type 2 diabetes who suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) and the impact on their sexual relationships. Diabetes-related sexual dysfunction presents multifaceted challenges, encompassing diminished sexual desire, painful intercourse, and psychological distress. Methods: Using a phenomenological approach, the study involved 11 diabetic, married respondents from two Indonesian regions of Subang and Yogyakarta with distinct cultural backgrounds (Sundanese and Javanese), and data were collected through structured interviews in Bahasa Indonesia, audio-recorded and transcribed and translated into English. Data were analyzed using Coalizzi’s method.  Results: Analysis revealed four key themes: “the dysfunction,” “psychological impact,” “keep on trying,” and “wife’s support.” The dysfunction theme underscores the physical challenges in sexual interactions, including reduced quality and increased pain. Psychological impacts are marked by guilt and emotional strain, while “keep on trying” highlights the persistent efforts by both partners to maintain intimacy, with men often seeking therapeutic solutions. Notably, the study emphasizes the crucial supportive role of wives, especially in a cultural context where open discussions about sexual matters remain taboo. Conclusions: The findings highlight the intricate interplay between physical, psychological, and relational aspects in managing sexual dysfunction within marriages, pointing to the importance of culturally sensitive support for diabetic individuals and their partners. Further research is recommended to delve deeper into the perspectives of spouses and explore cultural influences on managing sexual dysfunction.

Note:
Funding declaration: This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Conflict of Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest associated with the material presented in this paper.

Ethical Approval: The research ethics commission of UNISA (Universitas Aisyiyah Yogyakarta, Indonesia) approved the study with the number 2028/KEPK UNISA/IV/2022.

Keywords: Sexual dysfunction, phenomenology, male and female with DM, Sundanese, Javanese