The Influence of Chronic Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome on Sexual Function in Iraqi Men

Abstract

Background: Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) is a bothersome disease that affects men and is associated with adverse impacts on their sexual activity and quality of life. Objective: Assessment of sexual dysfunction in Iraqi men with chronic prostatitis. Methods: This study comprised two groups: the first included 112 patients with CP/CPPS, and the second involved 64 healthy volunteers. Assessment of prostatitis symptoms was done using the National Institutes of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI). Sexual dysfunction was addressed using the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire for assessment of erectile dysfunction severity, the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool Questionnaire (PEDT) for premature ejaculation, and two questions from the Ejaculatory Function Questionnaire, questions 3 (EjQ3) and 4 (EjQ4), for painful ejaculation and satisfaction of ejaculation. Results: The mean score of the NIH-CPSI for CP/CPPS patients was higher than for the control group, and the pain or discomfort symptom was the most predominant. ED was reported in 46% of CP/CPPS patients, compared to 39% in the control group. PE was recorded in 49% of the patients versus 25% of the control group. Painful ejaculation was found in 65% of the studied patients with CP/CPPS and in 11% of the healthy control group. Ejaculatory dissatisfaction was evident in 67% and 17% of the patients and control groups, respectively. Conclusion: CP/CPPS is associated with distressing sexual dysfunction in the form of erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and ejaculatory dysfunction that affects men's sexual activity.