(345) Sexual Health Outcomes After Gender Affirming Metoidioplasty: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Previous studies have evaluated surgical outcomes and aesthetic results of Genital Gender Affirming Surgery (GGAS) while few studies have examined sexual outcomes after GGAS. Objective We sought to systematically review the literature on sexual health outcomes of metoidioplasty in the transmasculine population. Methods PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was used to identify studies through April 29, 2022 based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement. Figure 1 shows search terms, inclusion, and exclusion criteria. Results Fourteen papers were included. Findings on arousal/desire ranged from 86% (n=48) reporting desire for sex to 100% (n=1455) reporting no difficulty in arousal. Preserved erogenous sensation and no issues with masturbation was reported in 100% of people across studies (n=1164;1455). Orgasm ability ranged from 66-70% (n=115) who were able to orgasm during sexual activity or masturbation to 100% (n=1455) who had no problems with orgasm. Orgasm satisfaction was found to be 100% (n=48). A study found that 80% (n=15) had challenges with erections, with 83% (n=18) of Erection Hardness Scores were ‘larger but not hard’ or ‘hard but not hard enough for penetration.’ Earlier studies reported 100% of people had an erection (n=1599), and ratings of ‘satisfied’ or ‘partially satisfied’ in 94% (n=145). Across studies, 87-100% were unable to have penetrative sex (87% unable, n=15; 100% unable, n=737). For some, the inability to penetrate was the most dissatisfactory aspect of the metoidioplasty for 39% of patients (n=28). Conclusions Current literature on transmasculine people undergoing GGAS shows high ratings of arousal/desire, preservation of erogenous sensation, masturbation, and ability to orgasm following metoidioplasty. Data on the ability and adequacy of erection is less definitive. Overall ratings of sexual health appear high, but inability to have penetrative sex remains a source of persistent dissatisfaction for some. Further studies using surveys validated in transmasculine populations are needed to definitively describe sexual function after GGAS. Disclosure No.