Sexual Dysfunction Research Articles

Menstrual and sexual functions in female patients after sleeve gastrectomy due to obesity: obesity and sexual function.

Obesity is a systemic condition that is increasingly common. Obesity negatively affects sexual function and menstrual regularity. Therefore, losing excess weight is important for women's sexual and menstrual health. The change in body mass index (BMI) and and excess weight loss (EWL) of sexually active female patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) were evaluated by a general surgeon. The preoperative and postoperative periods were compared by a gynecologist using the survey method menstrual patterns, dysmenorrhea complaints, if any, and sexual function with the Female Sexual Function Scale (FSFI). The study included 55 patients with a mean ± standard deviation BMI on the day of the operation of 45.32 ± 5.82kg/m2. In the first postoperative year, the mean BMI significantly reduced to 27.88 ± 1.99 (p < 0.001). The mean percentage of EWL at the end of 1year was 73.09 ± 19.74 after LSG. The median (range) preoperative FSFI score of the patients was 26.30 (22.70-27.70). One year after LSG, the median FSFI score significantly improved to 34.50 (30.20-35.30) (p < 0.001). Compared to the period before surgery, the frequency of sexual intercourse increased from two-to-three times a week (p < 0.001). Women's sexual desires are a fundamental human right and contribute to female well-being. Thus, it is important to treat sexual dysfunction. The results of the present study demonstrate a significant improvement in sexual dysfunctions after LSG. LSG was an effective procedure that may be recommended to obese women with sexual dysfunction and menstrual problems.

Sexual dysfunction, anxiety, depression and reduced quality of life in women with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis- a cross-sectional analysis.

Axial spondyloarthritis (ax-SpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease which causes a major deterioration of both physical and mental health. This research aimed to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunction (SD), decreased quality of life (QoL), and depressive and anxiety symptoms in women with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA). A cross-sectional study was performed, involving 60 sexually active women with nr-axSpA and an age-matched group of 60 healthy women. Data were gathered through patient records and three standardized tools: the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and the Short Form-36 (SF-36). Sexual dysfunction was found to be more prevalent in the nr-axSpA group (65% vs. 40%, p < 0.01). The mean FSFI result was substantially lower in patients than in healthy controls (19.71 ± 11.32 vs. 24.75 ± 8.36, p < 0.01) with significant differences of the scores in desire, arousal, lubrication and pain caused during intercourse. Women with nr-axSpA also experienced higher levels of anxiety (HADS-A: 8.52 ± 3.62 vs. 5.88 ± 3.83, p < 0.01) and depression (HADS-D: 6.27 ± 3.38 vs. 3.28 ± 2.77, p < 0.01). They also had lower physical (171.0 ± 72.9 vs. 301.5 ± 81.2, p < 0.01) and mental (204.9 ± 83.9 vs. 277.1 ± 74.5, p < 0.01) QoL scores. Women diagnosed with nr-axSpA are more prone to sexual dysfunction, increased anxiety and depression, and have a significantly worsened quality of life. The obtained results accentuate the necessity of addressing the patients' physical as well as their emotional issues through a comprehensive approach.

Dyspareunia and pelvic pain in women with chronic migraine: A retrospective, observational analysis.

Dyspareunia and pelvic pain are commonly comorbid conditions with migraine, with chronic migraine potentially contributing to the exacerbation of sexual dysfunction and pain. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of female patients seen at the Stanford Headache Clinic between January 1, 2022, and March 24, 2024, for the management of chronic migraine for dyspareunia and pelvic pain and stratified for comorbidities related to both conditions. Patients with chronic migraine were overall found to be at higher likelihood of having a comorbid pelvic pain condition after adjusting for age, race-ethnicity, and marital status (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.46; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.17-2.79, p < 0.001), with interstitial cystitis (aOR 3.04; 95% CI: 1.98-4.66, p < 0.001), vaginismus (aOR 2.51; 95% CI: 1.29-4.88, p = 0.007), dyspareunia (aOR 1.97; 95% CI: 1.57-2.49, p < 0.001), and vulvodynia (aOR 1.88; 95% CI: 1.04-3.40, p = 0.036) all increased in the chronic migraine population. Furthermore, conditions that are commonly comorbid with migraine, such as irritable bowel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and mood disorders, independently contributed to increased risk of pelvic pain conditions and dyspareunia. Conditions that cause pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction in women are disproportionally common in women with chronic migraine and may contribute to disability and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. Early screening for disorders of pelvic pain in patients with chronic migraine and appropriate referrals can improve the quality of life of these patients.

Efficacy of Electrofulguration for Women with recurrent urinary tract infection on quality of life and sexual function.

Introduction The primary objective of the study was to assess the impact of EF in women with rUTI on quality of life and sexual health. Methods This prospective observational clinical study included 152 patients women who underwent EF because of rUTI and were followed for a minimum of 18 months. The SF-12 questionnaire and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) are used to evaluate quality of life and sexual dysfunction. The Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) scale was assessed to evaluate subjective cure. Endoscopic success was defined as complete resolution of previous lesions without new lesions seen during cystoscopy Clinical success was defined as no urinary tract infections at the last follow-up; improvement as 1-2 treated infections/year; and failure as ≥3 treated infections/year. Chi-square test, Wilcoxon, and Student's paired t-test were used. Results Seventy patients (52.6%) were defined as cured at least a 1-year follow-up. The subjective cure rate was 71.4% (N = 95) according to PGI-I scores. Women had significantly higher average FSFI scores (P=0.001) in the one-year postoperative assessment. Overall, pathological mental health and physical health scores were significantly higher after the intervention (P=0.00). Thirty-one (23.3%) patients improved clinically with <3 infections per year, and 32 (24.1%) patients failed with >3 infections per year. A total of 97 (74.4%) patients had endoscopic resolution postoperative evaluation. Conclusion EF resulted in clinical cure and improvement in the large majority of the patients. A significant proportion of the patients demonstrated enhanced sexual function and quality of life.

Factors Predisposing to Teenage Pregnancy among Female Secondary School Students in Southwest, Nigeria

Background: Adolescent females are amongst the most vulnerable age groups and are at risk of sexual, psychological, physical, mental and social problems. This coupled with increase in their sexual awareness, biological changes associated with puberty and tendency to explore and experiment their sexuality could result in high burden of reproductive health problems including teenage pregnancy. Adolescent pregnancies have a long-lasting impact on the physical and mental health, education, and livelihood of young women, men, and their families. Methodology: This study was a descriptive cross-sectional study, carried out among 270 in-school female adolescents in selected secondary schools in Lagos, Nigeria. A self-administered questionnaire was used to elicit the variables of interest, supervised by trained research assistants. The data collected were analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26. Results: The mean age of the respondents was 15.80±1.12 years. 59.3% of the respondents had poor knowledge on teenage pregnancy which showed statistical significance (P&lt;0.000) when correlated with sexual intercourse. 13.7% of the respondents had had coitus, with the average age of coitarche being 15 years. There was a high prevalence of multiple sexual partners and a high abortion rate in our study (40.5% and 80.4% respectively). Teenage pregnancy was related to lack of parenting, poverty, lack of sex education, lack of self-control and peer pressure especially from their partners. Conclusion: There is a need to increase knowledge on teenage pregnancy among female adolescents in senior secondary schools in southwest Nigeria.

Rejuvenating Sexual Health Holistically: An Approach in Ayurveda

Sex is one of the three primary human instincts, with self-preservation and social instinct, and is thus well developed in the typical individual. Sexual Dysfunction is referred to as problems that a person or partner encounters during any phase of typical sexual activity - physical pleasure, desire, preference, arousal, or orgasm. A person’s inability to participate in a sexual relationship as they would wish is how the World Health Organization describes sexual dysfunction. It can affect both men and women and may be caused by physical, or psychological factors. Sexual dysfunction, if not addressed promptly, can significantly impacts fertility. Since sexual dysfunction usually coincides with anatomical as well as psychological factors, a comprehensive sexual history, evaluation of general health, and reproductive health, and identification of any additional sexual problems (if any) are critical while diagnosing sexual dysfunction. The concept of sexual dysfunction is not new to Ayurveda. Classics include various references to it in the context of Yoni Vyapads, Dosha Vriddhi, Kshaya, Ojus, Artava Vaha Sroto Viddha Lakshana, and Manovikaras, along with probable causative factors and solutions. Ayurveda addresses the anatomical, psychological, and endocrinological aspects of sexual dysfunctions. Following Dinacharya, Rajaswala Paricharya, Garbhini Paricharya, and Sutika Paricharya provide extensive treatment regimens by focusing on the overall health of an individual’s reproductive, psychological, and endocrinological well-being. Female sexual dysfunction is a multifactorial condition that requires a holistic approach. Modern medical treatments offer targeted solutions, while Ayurvedic therapies promote balance and long-term vitality.

Resumption of Employment after Cervical Cancer Surgery: a 3-Year Follow-Up Study of Long-term Outcomes

INTRODUCTION. Despite advancements in cervical cancer (CC) diagnosis and treatment, surgical intervention remains the cornerstone of radical treatment. However, surgical procedures can result in complications such as lymphedema, sexual dysfunction, and other physical and psychosocial disorders, significantly affecting patients' quality of life (QoL) and ability to return to work. This emphasizes the need for effective strategies to support patients in resuming their occupational activities post-treatment. AIM. To investigate the relationship between different rehabilitation programmes following cervical cancer surgery and return to work MATERIALS AND METHODS. The study included patients aged 18 and older with stage 1A–1B cervical cancer. Patients were randomized into two groups: those receiving an active comprehensive rehabilitation program (СС-1, 51 patients) and those receiving passive rehabilitation (СС-2, 52 patients). The active rehabilitation program included a personalized, year-long regimen encompassing physical therapy, psychotherapeutic support, and lifestyle modifications, among other interventions. In contrast, the passive rehabilitation group received standard post-operative care information and general recommendations based on local clinical guidelines. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who returned to work at various time points up to 36 months post-surgery. RESULTS. Patients in the СС-1 group demonstrated significantly higher rates of return to work compared to the CC-2 group from the third month post-surgery onwards. At 36 months, all patients in the CC-1 group had returned to work, whereas only 66.7 % of patients in the CC-2 group had resumed their professional activities. In the CC-1 group the chance of returning to work within 3 years after surgery was 2.14 times higher compared to those in the CC-2 group (OR = 0.467, 95 % CI 0.309–0.706, p 0.001). CONCLUSION. The study highlights the significant impact of personalized comprehensive active rehabilitation programs on improving the likelihood of return to work following surgical treatment for early-stage cervical cancer. These findings suggest that such rehabilitation approaches may be crucial in enhancing the long-term recovery and social reintegration of cervical cancer patients, ultimately contributing to better overall outcomes. Further research is needed to identify the most effective components of these rehabilitation programs and optimize their implementation.

Sexual dysfunction after colorectal and anal cancer-treatment in nurse-led sexological clinics.

Sexual dysfunction after colorectal and anal cancer is common but rarely identified and treated, although effective treatment options do exist. Therefore, we recently established nurse-led clinics for the treatment of sexual dysfunction after pelvic organ cancer at two Danish university hospitals. The aim of this paper is to present patients' clinical characteristics, the treatments offered and improvements in sexual function recorded. In this cohort study, colorectal and anal cancer patients were referred to the clinics at any time point after their cancer treatment. Specialized treating nurses identified and registered organic sexual disorders and psychological concerns at the first visit, and initiated treatments. Treatments were algorithm-based and rooted in a biopsychosocial approach. Patient-reported outcome measures were completed at baseline and 3 months after discharge. Among 127 referred patients, 78% were men. The mean age was 60.6 years (SD 10.4 years) and the women were a mean 7.3 years younger than the men (p = 0.001). Eighty per cent were rectal cancer patients. The most prevalent disorder was erectile dysfunction in men (95%) and dyspareunia in women (71%). Psychological concerns were registered in 53% of men and 54% of women. Pharmacological treatments, mainly phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors, were prescribed to 87% of men, and local oestrogens were prescribed to 54% of women. Instructions in the use of sexual aids were given to 22% of men and 42% of women. Furthermore, sexual counselling/therapy was offered to 44% of men and 92% of women to address sexuality related psychological problems. Three months after discharge, a clinically relevant improvement of ≥1 point was found in 68% of patients in at least one of three single items measuring 'Meaningful sex life', 'Sexual needs met' and 'Overall rating of sex life' on a five-point Likert-scale. At nurse-led clinics, specialized nurses can effectively identify and treat sexual problems in patients with sexual dysfunction following colorectal/anal cancer. Organic dysfunctions were prevalent, and psychological problems characterized most patients. This highlights that treatment needs to be multidisciplinary and that patients benefit from specialized care.

Do Survivor and Supporter Perceptions of Supporter Helpfulness and Social Reactions Affect Survivor PTSD Symptoms?

Prior studies indicate that sexual assault survivor posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is influenced by the social reactions (e.g., belief and blame) and perceived helpfulness (e.g., empathy, effectiveness) of informal support providers (SPs; i.e., family, friends, and partners). This study examined how SPs' social reactions and perceived helpfulness impacted female sexual assault survivor PTSD among an ethnically diverse sample of 432 pairs of sexual assault survivors and their SPs. Path models were run separately for survivors and SPs. In the survivor model, SP's perceived ineffectiveness was significantly related to more unsupportive acknowledgment and turning against reactions, and perceived empathy was significantly related to more unsupportive acknowledgment reactions. Both turning against and unsupportive acknowledgment reactions were related to greater survivor PTSD. In the SP model, greater SP confusion about how to help the survivor was related to marginally less SP unsupportive acknowledgment and more turning against social reactions made to survivors. Greater SP empathy toward the survivor was also related to significantly less SP unsupportive acknowledgment and turning against social reactions. Finally, SP turning against social reactions was related to marginally more survivor PTSD symptoms. Results suggest that longitudinal research is needed to explore further how helping perceptions relate to survivor PTSD from both survivor and SP perspectives to inform informal support network interventions. Interventions to increase empathy toward sexual assault survivors and teach SPs how to avoid responding with negative social reactions are needed.

Potential and Mechanisms of Indigenous Indonesian Medicinal Plants in Treating Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Pharmacological Network Overview

Potential and Mechanisms of Indigenous Indonesian Medicinal Plants in Treating Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Pharmacological Network Overview

Associations between Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Female Sexual Function in a Preconception Cohort

Female sexual function is important for sexual well-being, general health, fertility, and relationship satisfaction. Distressing impairments in sexual function, clinically recognized as female sexual dysfunction (FSD), can manifest as issues with interest/desire, arousal, orgasm, and pain during vaginal penetration. Some evidence suggests that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals may adversely affect female sexual function, but associations for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have not been previously evaluated. We investigated associations between serum PFAS concentrations and female sexual function among U.S. pregnancy planners. We used cross-sectional data from participants from Pregnancy Study Online (PRESTO), a prospective preconception cohort study. Participants reported sexual function at baseline on two validated measures: a modified version of the Female Sexual Function Index-6 (FSFI-6) and Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS). We quantified PFAS serum concentrations in samples collected in the preconception period (i.e., at baseline) using solid phase extraction-high performance liquid chromatography-isotope-dilution-mass spectrometry. Participants reported sociodemographic information on structured baseline questionnaires. We included 78 participants with complete PFAS and sexual function data and fit multivariable linear regression models to estimate mean differences in FSFI-6 scores (β) or percent differences (%) in FSDS scores per interquartile range (IQR) increase in PFAS concentrations, adjusting for age, annual household income, years of education, parity, and body mass index. We further investigated effect measure modification by parity (parous vs. nulliparous) in stratified models. An IQR increase in perfluorohexanesulfonic acid was associated with a 1.0-point decrease (95% CI=-1.8, -0.1) in reported FSFI-6 scores, reflecting poorer sexual function. PFAS were consistently associated with lower FSFI-6 scores among parous participants. PFAS were also associated, though imprecisely, with greater sexual distress. Some PFAS were associated with poorer sexual function among parous U.S. pregnancy planners, but future studies are needed to clarify the extent to which PFAS influences female sexual health.

Abstract WP130: Sexual Dysfunction Education and Treatment Post Stroke

Abstract WP130: Sexual Dysfunction Education and Treatment Post Stroke

Patient-reported outcomes in physical, cognitive, and sexual health in early-onset gastrointestinal cancers (EOGIC).

72 Background: Incidence of early-onset (ages 18-49) gastrointestinal cancers is alarmingly increasing. To assess unmet needs in health-related quality of life (HRQoL), we conducted this pilot study using PRO measures in patients with EOGIC. Methods: Patients ages 18-49 with any GI cancer seen at our center during a clinic visit were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. Validated PRO tools PROMIS 29+2, GP5 from FACT-G, AYA Sexual Health PRO Battery and Adult Neuro-QOL Cognitive Function short form were administered. Participants’ PROMIS 29+2 responses were scored to generate a T score, and two-tailed t-tests were used to compare T scores with the average score from a large general US population. The electronic medical record was reviewed to collect demographic, diagnosis and treatment information. Results: 39 (85% response rate) patients were enrolled from 03-08/24. Table 1 describes demographics, diagnoses, and treatment. In the PROMIS 29+2, EOGIC patients reported significantly lower physical function and higher anxiety, depression, fatigue and pain interference compared to the general US population: t-score (T-test p-value) 40.4 (p 0.0003), 57.7 (p 0.005), 55.7 (p 0.017), 55.1 (p 0.033) and 58.5 (p 0.0001), respectively. 56% reported being at least somewhat “bothered by side effects of treatment,” and this measure has a known correlation with clinician reported adverse events. Regarding sexual health (SH) in prior 30 days, 79% of participants felt less whole or “damaged” due to their disease, 64% were sexually active, 56% had some distress due to change in SH, and 50% were worried about their romantic relationship(s). Patients identified discussing safe sex with low counts, body image, contraception and addressing sexual problems as areas of unmet need during their care. They reported not receiving counseling from their care teams: only 15% discussed safe sex with low counts, 28% contraception, 13% STI prevention, and 18% discussed effect of cancer on body image. No significant change in cognitive functioning over the preceding 7 days was reported in this study. Conclusions: PROs are an important tool in clinical and survivorship care of young patients with GI cancers. We discovered that decreased physical function, increased anxiety, depression, fatigue and pain significantly effect HRQoL patients with EOGIC. We also found high unmet need to address sexual health in patients with EOGIC. Our ongoing work aims to better understand and address these needs for our patients. Demographic, diagnostic, and therapeutic characteristics of participants. Age At study participation 24-49 median 43 Gender Female 26 66.7% Primary cancer Colorectal 19 48.7% Pancreatic 5 12.8% Biliary tract cancers 5 12.8% Esophageal/Gastric 3 7.7% Other (including anal, NET, GIST, appendiceal) 7 17.9% Stage Metastatic 22 56.4% Treatment On any active treatment 24 61.5% On chemotherapy 20 51.2%

The effect of weight-related self-stigma on sexual functioning in obese women with type 2 diabetes.

This study aims to determine the relationship between weight-related self-stigma and sexual function in obese women with type 2 diabetes. This is a descriptive correlational study. The study reached 236 women through social media between December 2023 and April 2024. In data collection, a descriptive information form, the Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire (WSSQ), and the Female Sexual Function Inventory (FSFI). The mean total score of the women on the Weight Self-Stigma Questionnaire was 32.78±10.00 and the mean total score on the Female Sexual Function Inventory was 22.38±4.08. Sexual dysfunction was identified in 70.8% of the women. We found that women with type 2 diabetes exhibited high levels of weight-related self-stigma and sexual dysfunction. Additionally, the findings indicated a negative correlation between self-devaluation and fear of enacted stigma and lubrication and sexual pain. However, self-stigma about weight and sexual dysfunction were not significantly related. It is recommended to determine the prevalence of weight bias and sexual dysfunctions among obese women with diabetes, and to provide adequate support by health professionals, in order to prevent negative effects on their mental health and sexual functions.

Use of erectile dysfunction treatments after prostate cancer treatment and their perceived impact on men’s sex life: an analysis of patient reported outcome survey data

BackgroundAlthough sexual dysfunction is a common treatment side-effect affecting men’s quality of life, many prostate cancer patients do not receive or seek out treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED). The aims of this study are to investigate the extent and patterns of use of ED treatments and their perceived impact at different times following prostate cancer treatment.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included all men on the South Australian prostate cancer registry who completed one or more Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) survey from 2016 to 2023 (n = 5561). Outcomes included self-reported use of ED treatment (oral medications, intra-cavernosal injections (ICI) and vacuum pumps) and their impact men’s sex life at various time points after treatment. The type and timing of ED treatments used was analysed descriptively. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with utilisation and self-reported satisfaction were examined using multivariable mixed-effects binomial logistic regression.ResultsPost-treatment use of ED treatments did not exceed 43% at any timepoint, with utilisation rates decreasing over time. Oral medications were most frequently used, while vacuum pump and ICI use was limited. Oral medications were more likely to be used at three-months (odds ratio [OR] = 2.48; 95% confidence interval [95%CI] = 1.88–3.27) and six-months (OR = 2.10; 95%CI = 1.63–2.27) than at 12-months post-treatment, and among men from higher socioeconomic areas (OR = 2.41; 95%CI = 1.47–3.93, highest vs. lowest quintile), and following prostatectomy (OR = 4.37; 95%CI = 2.92–6.42), and less likely among older men (OR = 0.08; 95%CI = 0.05–0.13, < 60yrs vs. 70-79yrs). Men were more likely to report an improved sex life with oral medication use at two-years (OR = 3.79; 95%CI = 1.69–8.47) and five-years (OR = 3.07; 95%CI = 1.51–6.25) post-treatment compared with 12-months or if they were socioeconomically advantaged (OR = 3.22; 95%CI = 1.30–7.96, highest vs. lowest quintile).ConclusionsA substantial proportion of Australian men do not access or continue to use ED treatments after prostate cancer treatment, with many users reporting only modest effects on their sex life. There is a need to improve access to and maintenance of ED treatments following prostate cancer treatment.

Impacts of obesity and comorbidities on sexual dysfunction in men and women: a systematic review

Introduction: Obesity, with more than 2.0 billion people worldwide, is associated with numerous comorbidities, affecting male and female sexual and reproductive function. Objective: This study explored the main clinical studies on the impacts of obesity on sexual dysfunction in men and women, as well as treatment proposals in an attempt to mitigate or resolve this condition. Methods: The systematic review rules of the PRISMA Platform were followed. The search was carried out from September to October 2024 in the Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Science Direct, Scielo, and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the studies was based on the GRADE instrument and the risk of bias was analyzed according to the Cochrane instrument. Results and Conclusion: A total of 95 articles were found. A total of 30 articles were evaluated in full and 14 were included and developed in the present systematic review study. Considering the Cochrane tool for risk of bias, the overall assessment resulted in 23 studies with high risk of bias and 25 studies that did not meet GRADE and AMSTAR-2. Most studies showed homogeneity in their results, with X2=72.5%&gt;50%. It was concluded that obesity is associated with substantial and significant impairments in quality of life. Weight loss has been shown to improve sexual function in men and women with obesity. The impact of weight loss medications and the long-term effect of bariatric surgery on sexual function require further studies. Higher visceral adiposity index is independently related to the risk of erectile dysfunction and that early intervention is necessary to reduce the progression of erectile dysfunction with high levels of visceral adiposity index. It was shown that BMI, age, smoking, diabetes and hypertension were associated with higher odds of reporting decreased sexual function.

Diabetes mellitus, vaginal microbiome and sexual function: Outcomes in postmenopausal women.

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease and a public health challenge worldwide, associated with numerous complications, including genitourinary infections and sexual dysfunction in women, particularly in menopause. The vaginal microbiome, which comprises beneficial and pathogenic bacteria, their genomes, and the surrounding environment, plays a crucial role in maintaining genitourinary health. Chronic hyperglycemia disrupts immune functions, exacerbates oxidative stress, and alters the vaginal microbiome, increasing the risk of genitourinary infections. Recent advances in microbial analysis, including 16S rRNA sequencing, have provided insights into the complex composition of the vaginal microbiome and its dysbiosis in diabetes mellitus. Some glucose-lowering drugs, such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, may increase the risk of genitourinary infections. Additionally, psychological distress, hormonal imbalances, and diabetes-related genitourinary symptoms contribute to sexual dysfunction in diabetic women. Healthcare for diabetic women requires a multidisciplinary approach, including not only glycemic control but also vaginal and sexual health assessment. A holistic approach is essential to advance personalized strategies, including medications and psychological support.

Sexual dysfunction and quality of life across age groups in multiple sclerosis patients: a prospective cross-sectional analysis

IntroductionAs the most frequent chronic neurological disorder in young adults, Multiple sclerosis (MS) significantly affects neurological function, particularly the autonomic nervous system. While the physical symptoms are visible, MS also causes hidden effects like sexual dysfunction. Research indicates that sexual disorders are more prevalent in MS patients compared to other neurological conditions and are approximately five times more common than in the general population. This study utilized the Sexual Intimacy and Desires in MS Patients Questionnaire (MSISQ-19) and the Quality of Life in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Questionnaire to investigate the impact of sexual disorders on the quality of life in MS patients.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted on MS patients attending the MS clinic in 2022 and 2023. Eighty patients were randomly selected, and data were collected using the MSISQ-19 and MSQOL-54 questionnaires. The results were analyzed to establish the impact of sexual disorders on quality of life.Results59 women and 21 men with MS were included. The Physical Health Scale (PHC) had a mean score of 51.6 (SD = 20.2), and the Mental Health Scale (MHC) had a mean score of 57.8 (SD = 20.5). Age appeared to influence physical health scores, with the youngest group (20–30 years) scoring highest and the oldest group (51–65 years) scoring lowest.Discussion and conclusionThe present study found that primary, secondary, and tertiary sexual disorders are common in MS patients across all age groups and genders. These findings highlight the need for increased attention, research, and treatment interventions for sexual dysfunction in MS patients.

Sexual Functions Are Impaired in Males and Females With Chronic Spontaneous and Inducible Urticaria: A Controlled Study

Introduction: Sexual dysfunction (SexD) related to chronic dermatologic diseases in women and men were reported in literature, but there are few reports on effects of chronic urticaria (CU) on male and female sexual functions. Objectives: The aim was to investigate prevalence of SexD in women and erectile dysfunction (ED) caused by 2 different CU subtypes. Methods: Our study included 100 patients with CU (60 chronic spontaneous urticaria ([CSU]) and 40 chronic inducible urticaria [CIndU]) and 60 healthy controls. Urticaria activity score 7, urticaria control test, Dermatology Life Quality Index, Beck-Depression Inventory, International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were assessed in patients and controls. Results: Patients with CSU and CIndU had a higher prevalence of ED (43%, 50% vs 10%) and female SexD than controls (83%, 70% vs 20%). CSU and CIndU patients both had lower FSFI scores than controls (22.1±5.9 and 19.5±8.9 vs control; 29.7±3.4). The IIEF score in men with CSU correlated with lower sexual function. Patients with CIndU had only impaired scores of erectile and orgasmic functions. We found impairment in quality of life (QoL) and long disease duration in women (r=-0.36, r=-0.37; p&lt;0.05) and that depressive symptoms both in men and women with CU is associated with more impairment in sexual function (r=-0.44, r=-0.47; p&lt;0.001). Conclusions: Sexual function is affected in both female and male patients with CSU and CIndU. Given that sexual life is a crucial aspect of QoL, it should be considered when assessing treatment outcomes and disease control.

The Effect of Sexuality Education During Pregnancy on Female Sexual Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Study

Objective This meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the effect of sexuality education during pregnancy on female sexual function. Although sexual dysfunction in pregnancy is a common problem, it is often overshadowed by other outcomes, such as pregnancy risks or birth complications. Therefore, understanding the impact of educational interventions on women’s sexual health is crucial to improving their overall well-being during this period. Method Studies were searched on the electronic databases Google Scholar, Web of Science, Journal Park, the Cochrane Library, EBSCO Medline, Pubmed, and Scopus without imposing any restrictions on the publication year. This meta-analysis used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and meta-analysis statement guidelines. Findings were analyzed using fixed- or random-effects models based on 95% confidence intervals, p values, and heterogeneity testing. Results This systematic review included 4 studies with 337 (training: 169 and control: 168) participants due to the limited number of studies on this topic. Interventions in the four studies using the Female Sexual Function Index showed that sexuality education provided to intervention groups had a statistically significant positive effect on the total female sexual function score compared to control groups (p < .001, range: 0.552–0.995). Conclusion This meta-analysis provides insights into the implementation of educational interventions considering their positive impact on female sexual function during pregnancy. Despite the limited number of studies (only 4 studies), the findings suggest that sex education leads to significant improvements in many aspects, such as sexual pleasure, vaginal lubrication, orgasm, sexual desire, and overall satisfaction. Furthermore, pregnancy provides an ideal opportunity to normalize and integrate this education into pregnancy care, as it is a time when women often attend antenatal checkups or childbirth classes.