Can sex survive pelvic floor surgery?

Abstract

Sexual function in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is adversely affected, but data reporting sexual function following surgery are limited. We aimed to determine effect of pelvic reconstructive surgery on sexual function and to evaluate effect of additional continence procedures. Women with POP or SUI were assessed using pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) or videocystourethrography. Sexual function was assessed with Golombok Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS) and sexual domains on prolapse quality of life (P-QoL) questionnaire and King's Health questionnaire. Women were reviewed over 2 years using all these objective and subjective assessments. In total, 52 patients were followed up over 2 years. Sexual function measured using GRISS scores and sexual function domain scores of KHQ and P-QoL improved following surgery. A better supported pelvic floor (POP-Q) was associated with significantly improved GRISS scores. These findings aid in pre-operative counselling of women with POP and SUI about potential improvement in sexual function post-operatively.