Sexual Function Research Articles

Carb‐Loaded Passion: A Comprehensive Exploration of Carbohydrates in Shaping Aphrodisiac Effects

AbstractThe present overview discusses the putative aphrodisiac properties of carbohydrates. It comprehensively investigates the intricate interplay between the physiological systems that govern sexual arousal and the consumption of carbohydrates in the diet. One method to achieve this is by examining the historical origins of aphrodisiacs in various civilizations. It highlights the significance of carbohydrates as essential macronutrients and explores their function in crucial biochemical processes associated with libido and sexual response. In order to understand the impact of dietary carbs on sexual health, the study examines the correlation among sex hormones, insulin sensitivity, and blood glucose levels. To understand how particular diets high in carbohydrates can improve sexual arousal, performance and desire the analysis looks at scientific research informing that some diets have aphrodisiac properties. The present research examines the influence of carbohydrates on mood, stress levels, and overall well‐being to gain a deeper understanding of the psychological underpinnings of sexual function. The points elucidated in this analysis enhance the understanding of the complex interrelationships between dietary components, specifically carbs, and sexual health. Results have implications for lifestyle modifications aimed at improving sexual well‐being. The information contained here will also be beneficial to individuals and healthcare professionals who are looking for evidence‐based approaches to improve their sexual well‐being.

Comparison of Sexual Functions in Transobturator Tape Surgeries Performed with Inside-Out Technique and Outside-In Technique

Comparison of Sexual Functions in Transobturator Tape Surgeries Performed with Inside-Out Technique and Outside-In Technique

Sexual dysfunction among female patients with rheumatic diseases.

To demonstrate the burden of sexual dysfunction (SD) among females with rheumatic diseases, we conducted a cross-sectional comparative study in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and Behçet's syndrome (BS) along with suitable healthy controls (HCs). Age-matched female patients with SSc (n = 50), SLE (n = 49), and BS (n = 54), along with 52 female HCs were included in this study between April and October, 2021. Sociodemographic features were recorded, and psychometric tests, i.e., female sexual function index (FSFI), Beck depression inventory (BDI), body cathexis scale, and marital adjustment test (MAT) were performed. Scale scores were compared, and binary logistic regressionwas usedto identify predictors for SD in the whole group. The total FSFI and body cathexis scores among the patient groups were significantly lower than those of the HCs (p < 0.001). Depression was significantly more frequent in the patient groups. MAT scores did not differ significantly between the study groups. Patients with SSc had the worst scores in each psychometric index, including MAT. Decreased body cathexis score [OR 0.974, 95% CI (0.957-0.991), p = 0.003] and low MAT score [OR 0.937, 95% CI (0.896-0.980), p = 0.005], and being diagnosed with SSc [OR 6.6, 95% CI (1.975-22.498), p = 0.002], SLE [OR 2.7, 95% CI (0.998-7.753), p = 0.050], and BS [OR 2.8, 95% CI (1.100-7.359), p = 0.031],were identifiedas independent predictors for SD. Body cathexis seems to be the most important independent predictor for SD, and the burden of SD appears heavier in patients with SSc, probably due to poor body image satisfaction.

“Tell me I’m okay”: A cross-sectional quality-of-life assessment of patients in a breast cancer survivorship program.

213 Background: The number of breast cancer survivors is increasing due to improvements in care and an aging population, leading to an increased need for care that addresses the physical and psychological needs of patients after completion of active treatment. The Sunnybrook Breast Cancer Survivorship Program was established to provide comprehensive evidence-based survivorship care and facilitate the transition to family doctors. Despite rising interest in dedicated survivorship care, there is little consensus regarding which individuals are likely to suffer the most long-term impacts of breast cancer treatment. Factors as varied as age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and treatment type can influence Quality-of-Life (QoL) outcomes. This cross-sectional assessment uses mixed methods to evaluate QoL trends in the patient cohort. Methods: Current patients of the Sunnybrook Breast Cancer Survivorship Program were asked to complete a baseline information form, as well as the EORTC QLQ-30 and BR-45, two validated measures of QoL for breast cancer patients and survivors. QoL, functional, and symptom domains were calculated from these responses accordingly and analyzed statistically. Patients reported their most bothersome QoL concerns through an open-ended questionnaire, which was analyzed and organized thematically. 99 patients have been recruited to date, of a planned 200. Results: We find that sexual health is of importance for this population, with 50 (50.5%) participants reporting sexual activity. Patients under 50 have poorer sexual functioning scores (p&lt;0.01) as well as more issues with body image (p&lt;0.05) than older survivors. Both married and under-50 patients are significantly more likely to have poorer outlooks on the future (p&lt;0.05; p&lt;0.01). Younger patients also tended to have worse role functioning, cognitive functioning, emotional functioning, and social functioning scores, though these differences were not statistically significant. Thematic analysis of qualitative data showed that patients’ chief concerns were the impact that ongoing side effects had on their daily functioning, impact of treatment on body image, disruptions to work and personal relationships, and strong anxiety about potential recurrence. Conclusions: While it is understood that younger BC survivors face unique challenges, our findings indicate that these obstacles persist into older age groups. In addition to physical side effects, such concerns as body image issues, social strain, and emotional functioning can drive QoL scores for these patients. Notably, many patients endorsed strong anxiety regarding potential recurrence that affected QoL, and identified dedicated survivorship follow-up as an ameliorating factor. Further research should be conducted into the unique needs of under-50 survivors, as well as the role of recurrence anxiety in impacting QoL.

280 - Pelvic floor muscle training in sexual function of postpartum women: a systematic review with meta-analysis

280 - Pelvic floor muscle training in sexual function of postpartum women: a systematic review with meta-analysis

Sexual Health and Quality of Life in Patients With Low-Risk Early-Stage Cervical Cancer: Results From GCIG/CCTG CX.5/SHAPE Trial Comparing Simple Versus Radical Hysterectomy.

Simple hysterectomy and pelvic node assessment (SHAPE) is a phase III randomized trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01658930) reporting noninferiority of simple compared with radical hysterectomy for oncologic outcomes in low-risk cervical cancer. This study presents secondary outcomes of sexual health and quality of life (QOL) of the SHAPE trial. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either radical or simple hysterectomy. Sexual health was assessed up to 36 months postoperatively using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised and QOL using European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 and Cervical Cancer-Specific Module (QLQ-CX24) questionnaires. Among participants with at least one QOL measure, clinical and pathologic characteristics were balanced and with no differences in preoperative baseline scores for sexual health or QOL between groups. FSFI total score met the cutoff for dysfunction up to 6 months (P = .02) in the radical hysterectomy group. Group differences favored simple hysterectomy for FSFI subscales: desire and arousal at 3 months (P ≤ .001) and pain and lubrication up to 12 months (P ≤ .018). Both groups met the cutoff for sexual distress but was higher in radical hysterectomy at 3 months (P = .018). For QLQ-CX24, symptom experience was significantly better up to 24 months (P = .031) and body image better at 3, 24, and 36 months (P ≤ .01) for simple hysterectomy. Sexual-vaginal functioning was significantly better up to 24 months (P ≤ .022) and more sexual activity up to 36 months (P = .024) in the simple hysterectomy arm. Global health status was significantly higher at 36 months for simple hysterectomy (P = .025). Simple hysterectomy was associated with lower rates of sexual dysfunction than radical hysterectomy, with a lower proportion of women having sustained sexual-vaginal dysfunction. These results further support the benefit of surgical de-escalation for low-risk cervical cancer.

Quality of life issues in patients with ductal carcinoma in situ: a systematic review.

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) of the breast is one of the most common pre-invasive cancers diagnosed in women. Quality of life (QoL) is extremely important to assess in studies including these patients due to the favorable prognosis of the disease. The primary objective of this systematic review was to compile a comprehensive list of QoL issues, all existing QoL assessment tools, and patient-reported outcome measures used to assess DCIS. A search was conducted on Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases from inception to August 2023, using keywords such as "ductal carcinoma in-situ", "quality of life", and "patient-reported outcomes." QoL issues and QoL tools in primary research studies were extracted. A total of 67 articles identified issues pertaining to patients with DCIS spanning physical, functional, and psychosocial QoL domains. Physical and functional issues observed in patients included pain, fatigue, and impaired sexual functioning. Psychosocial issues such as anxiety, depression, and confusion about one's disease were also common. QoL tools included those that assessed general QoL, breast cancer-specific tools, and issue-specific questionnaires. The current instruments available to assess QoL in patients with DCIS do not comprehensively capture the issues that are pertinent to patients. Thus, the modification of existing tools or the creation of a DCIS-specific QoL tool is recommended to ensure that future research will be sensitive towards challenges faced by patients with DCIS.

Sexual dysfunctions (SD) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): from preclinical studies to intervention strategies

In the light of existing literature, we reviewed the causes, management and potential therapeutic benefits of SSRI (Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) agents regarding sexual functions. (SSRIs) are the most commonly used medications for the treatment of depression, based on their effectiveness and safety profile. Sexual dysfunctions (SD) caused by SSRIs are one of the most important reasons for discontinuation of treatment in both genders. Knowing the intervention strategies in patients who develop SD is pivotal for the proper management of sexual side effects and the treatment adherence of patients. The effects of SSRIs on sexual functions can also be used to treat certain disorders. SSRIs have a high success rate in the treatment of premature ejaculation and their off-label use for this purpose is widely recognized.

Journal of Women's Health Clinical Update.

The Clinical Update series is intended to help busy clinicians stay up-to-date with recently published important and potentially practice-changing articles on topics pertinent to the care of women. In this update on sexual health, we review studies on the sexual health content of healthcare professional curricula, sexual health and intimacy after cancer in women of color, sexual function in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome, as well as the risks associated with the use of testosterone in women.

MOLECULAR APPROACH TO PREMATURE EJACULATION: A PILOT STUDY ON S1P SERUM LEVELS AND S1PR1, S1PR2, S1PR3 POLYMORPHISMS

Objective: Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and its receptors are involved in various sexual functions, particularly in smooth muscle regulation and vascular responses. However, the role of S1P and its receptors in premature ejaculation (PE) remains unclear. This study investigates the relationship between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the S1PR1, S1PR2, and S1PR3 genes and plasma S1P levels in individuals with PE. Materials and Methods: The study included 100 individuals with PE and 100 healthy controls recruited from urology and psychiatry clinics. DNA was isolated from blood samples, and PCR was used to identify SNPs in the S1PR1 (rs2038366), S1PR2 (rs56357614), and S1PR3 (rs7022797) genes. Plasma S1P levels were measured using ELISA. Results: A significant association was observed between the heterozygous GT genotype of the S1PR1 gene and an increased risk of PE (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.215–4.168, p = 0.0099). No significant associations were found between S1PR2 or S1PR3 polymorphisms and PE. Plasma S1P levels were significantly lower in the PE group (median 253.25 ng/L) compared to the control group (median 430.82 ng/L) (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: S1PR1 gene polymorphism and reduced plasma S1P levels may be linked to the pathophysiology of PE. In contrast, S1PR2 and S1PR3 do not appear to be associated. Further research with larger samples is needed to confirm these findings.

Transdermal Carboxytherapy for Treating Vulvovaginal Atrophy: A Pilot Study

Objective: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a prevalent disorder that can negatively impact the overall health, sexual function, and quality of life of affected women; however, available data do not support specific treatment protocols. A novel product enables the noninvasive transdermal administration of carboxytherapy with a topical gel (CO2Lift®, Lumisque, Inc.; Weston, FL). The following randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study assessed the safety and efficacy of the transdermal carboxytherapy gel for treating GSM-related vulvovaginal changes. Methods: Menopausal or postmenopausal women 40 to 70 years old with signs or symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy and Female Sexual Dysfunction were randomized to receive topical carboxytherapy gel (n=40) or placebo gel (n=10) in a randomized, double-blind fashion. The assigned treatments were placed into the vagina and on the vulva for 45 minutes before removal. Treatment was applied daily for 5 days, stopped for 2 days, then continued for 5 additional days. Subjects completed four validated pre- and posttreatment questionnaires to assess female sexual function, sexual health, and genital self-image. Additionally, control (n=10) and treatment subjects (n=10) were randomized to undergo 3 mm pre- and posttreatment punch biopsies of vulva and vaginal tissue. Results: Overall, carboxytherapy-treated subjects achieved significant improvements in Female Sexual Function Index scores with strong positive correlations between sexual desire and arousal, arousal and sexual satisfaction, and sexual satisfaction and desire. The Day-to-Day Impact of Vaginal Aging Questionnaire results demonstrated a significant difference in mean pre- and posttreatment values for each assessment among subjects receiving topical carboxytherapy. Biopsy improvements included hyperplasia of the keratinized squamous epithelium, discrete hyperplasia of the basal layer and neovascularization, and increased thickness of mucous squamous epithelium. There were no adverse events. Conclusion: Transdermal carboxytherapy represents a safe, noninvasive means of treating the genitourinary syndrome of menopause symptoms and is suitable for home use. Additional research on this treatment is warranted.

Prevalence, classifications and factors associated with sexual dysfunction among adult cancer patients on chemotherapy at the Uganda Cancer Institute, Mbarara

BackgroundSexual dysfunction is a social challenge that devastates many people, including cancer patients. However, among the numerous reported side effects of chemotherapy sexual dysfunction is the least studied and reported. The chemotherapeutics used among cancer patients are potential risk factors for the development of sexual dysfunction, and such an understanding of these risk factors can lead to numerous interventions to bypass their effects on sexual activity.ObjectiveThe goal of this study was to determine the prevalence, classification and factors associated with sexual dysfunction among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among 214 cancer patients at the Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital in southwestern Uganda for a period of 3 months from August to October 2023. A systematic sampling technique was employed in the study; a questionnaire was used to collect patient data. The standardized female sexual function index and international index of erectile function tools were used to classify types of sexual dysfunctions among women and men, respectively. Sexual dysfunction-associated factors were analyzed by logistic regression using Stata version 17.ResultsA total of 127 males and 87 females with a median age of 50 years were enrolled. Overall (42.1%) of the patients, (54.3%) males and (24.1%) females experienced sexual dysfunction. (33.9%) of male reported overall sexual dissatisfaction, while among female (18.4%) patients reported decreased sexual desire. while others reported reduced arousal and vaginal pain. Multivariate logistic regression revealed the following independent risk factors for sexual dysfunctions: male sex (AOR 3.99, 95% CI 1.93–8.25; p value = 0.001), gastrointestinal cancer (AOR 3.46, 95% CI 1.34–8.93; p value = 0.010) and anthracyclines use (AOR 4.26, 95% CI 1.02, 17.76; p value = 0.047).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that there is a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction among cancer patients at the Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. In male patients, overall sexual dissatisfaction is the most prevalent, while decreased sexual desire is prevalent in females. Routine screening of sexual functions should be encouraged for all patients receiving chemotherapies. Males patients, those diagnosed with gastrointestinal cancers and those receiving regimens containing anthracyclines should be more closely monitored for sexual dysfunction.

The Consequences of Delayed Presentation and Management of Penile Fracture

Background of study Penile fractures have traditionally been considered to require immediate surgical intervention. However, recent studies have described acceptable outcomes with delayed repair. In this prospective study, we investigated the consequences of delayed presentation and treatment of penile fractures. Aim of Study: To assess the outcome of delayed presentation of cases with penile fracture on the long-term outcome of surgical intervention. Patient and method: A prospective observational study was conducted between January and December 2022 and included 21 patients with penile fractures from multiple centers in Iraq who underwent surgery immediately after admission. To evaluate the outcome of the time to presentation, the patients were divided into two groups: Group A included 13 patients with early presentation within 24 hours (1 to 9 hours, mean = 3.93 hours) and Group B included 8 patients with delayed presentation after 24 hours (33 hours to 5 days, mean = 60.75 hours). All patients underwent routine follow-up at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery; during this visit, long-term complications were reassessed using questionnaires and local examinations. Results: Group A included 13 patients (61.9%) and group B included 8 patients (38.1%). In group A, patients presented to the emergency department within 24 hours after penile trauma. In group B, patients presented to the emergency department or clinic within 24 hours after penile trauma. The incidence of long-term complications was 7.6% (1 of 13 patients) in group A and 62.5% (5 of 8 patients) in group B (OR 26.4, 95% CI 4.41–157.86, p = 0.0001). Erectile dysfunction and penile mass did not differ significantly between the two groups (p = 0.67 and 0.06, respectively). However, pain during insertion and erection were higher in group B (50% and 7.6% in group B and group A, respectively) (OR 25, 95% CI 2.69-231.59, p = 0.1). Penile curvature was observed only in the second group (37.5%). However, the curvature was mild and did not affect sexual function. Conclusion: Immediate surgical repair has the best prognosis and should remain the recommended treatment modality of penile fracture.

Evolutionary Role of the Female Orgasm: Insights into Mate Choice and Beyond.

The female orgasm remains a subject of extensive debate within evolutionary sciences, primarily due to the absence of a consensus regarding its adaptive function. Some hypotheses propose that it could function as a mechanism for mate selection, possibly linked to reproductive strategies. Studies have observed that lesbian women tend to experience orgasms more frequently than straight women, suggesting a potential link to advantageous partner characteristics. We explored the connection between the female orgasm and mate selection, aiming to ascertain its role as an adaptive tool for mate choice. A total of 939 sexually active Brazilian women (Mage = 28.3years) engaged in committed relationships participated by completing the Marital Empathy Questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index, and evaluations of their partners' attributes. Analysis using structural equation models revealed that higher orgasm scores were positively associated with perceptions of partner kindness, intelligence, good health, physical attractiveness, and empathy. However, the small effect sizes of these associations warrant caution in their interpretation, and no significant association was found for relationship duration, financial prospects, dominance, and masculinity/femininity. Additionally, no differences were found between women in same-sex and other-sex relationships regarding orgasm frequency and its association with partner traits. The findings partially support the mate-choice theory, encompassing both sire-choice and pair-bond hypotheses, suggesting that female orgasm is positively associated with some partner attributes related to genetic quality and the capability for emotional connection and resource investment. Therefore, female orgasm may offer information about the partner that might not be primarily accessed and contribute to relationship maintenance.

Attitudes toward mothers as sexual beings and the sexual functioning of parents.

Research has shown that negative sexual attitudes are associated with lower levels of sexual functioning among men and women, however, little is known about how attitudes about mothers as sexual beings are associated with sexual functioning for parents. The aim of the current study was to examine how attitudes toward mothers as sexual beings (ATMSB) were associated with sexual functioning for women and partners of women among parents with young children. Cross-sectional retrospective data were collected online via Qualtrics Panels from 475 women and men (partnered to women) who reported having their first child within the last 5 years.Outcomes: The Revised Female Sexual Function Index and revised Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite-Short Form were used to measure sexual function in women and men, respectively. Results indicated that after controlling for age and relationship length, more positive ATMSB predicted higher levels of sexual functioning (and multiple domains of functioning) for men and women.Clinical Implications: These findings indicate that sexual functioning, especially in parents, is linked to the attitudes held toward seeing mothers as inherently sexual (or not). This is the first study to examine how attitudes toward mothers as sexual beings can impact sexual functioning, though the cis heterosexual mostly white sample is a notable limitation. ATMSB may need to be examined and challenged in the context of treating sexual dysfunction during this transitional period for mothers and those partnered to mothers.

Hidradenitis suppurativa and female infertility: a pilot study conducted amongst 110 dermatological patients

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with severe consequences on quality of life. One aspect of this is that HS has been linked to an increased risk of infertility, but as data is still limited, it is not known if the association reflects causality. We performed a cross-sectional study of 161 female participants included at Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark. Data regarding basic demographics, infertility, pregnancies, sexual function, and known factors with impact on fertility was collected. Logistic regressions were performed to analyze the association between HS and infertility, adjusting for factors that influence fertility. The study population consisted of 55 patients with HS, 55 patients with other dermatological diseases (ODD), and 51 healthy controls (HC). The HS group had a higher BMI, lower sexual function, and a higher tobacco use. We found no significant difference between the three groups in terms of whether they had children, the number of children they had, infertility, or whether they had received fertility treatments. The logistic analyses found no correlation between HS and infertility, and adjusting for factors affecting infertility did not alter this result. This study did not find a significant difference in infertility between patients with HS compared to those with ODD or HC. This result was not affected by adjustments for other factors known to influence fertility. Interestingly, the lower sexual function in the HS group did not appear to influence their desire or ability to conceive.

Sexual and reproductive health: level of knowledge and source of information in adolescence.

To date, there is a lack of a structured national plan of sexual education in Italy, with large interregional differences and poor uniformity in the promotion and learning of sexual health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the level of knowledge on sexuality and reproductive function among adolescents before and after a sexual education program, considering gender differences in the results. A longitudinal and interventional study was conducted on high school students. Six sessions for each class were carried out by a multidisciplinary team. Anonymous questionnaires were administered to investigate basic knowledge of human sexuality and reproduction before and after intervention. Participants were high school students who completed the questionnaires. Outcomes included pre and posttest answers on the knowledge questionnaire in study population. We obtained data from 842 high school students (mean ± SD age, 16.11 ± 1.74years). The main informative sources on sexuality were social media in 37.9% of participants; family, school, and scientific material were the main source in 15.1%, 5.2%, and 4.4%, respectively. A total score of 12.6 ± 3.4 (range, 1-20) was obtained on the knowledge questionnaire; specifically, the score was higher in females than males (12.8 ± 3.4 vs 11.9 ± 3.4, P = .0001). In males and females, a statistically significant increase in level of knowledge was found after the multidisciplinary intervention (14.5 ± 3.6, P = .0001). The lack of sexual education programs in schools in Italy compels adolescents to refer to frequently unreliable sources, such as social media and peers, contributing to misinformation and adoption of risky sexual behaviors. This study is based on a large sample size and highlights the importance of sexual education programs. The main limitations are a greater representation of the female population and the inclusive nature of the school (ie, an artistic school), attracting students who identify with sexual minorities. Adolescents have limited knowledge about sexuality and reproduction, with a notable gender disparity; sexual education programs in schools, providing information from sexuality experts, led to a substantial increase in knowledge and a reduction in the gender gap.

Association between caffeine intake and erectile dysfunction: a meta-analysis of cohort studies.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common condition with various contributing factors, including lifestyle and dietary habits. Caffeine, a widely consumed stimulant, has been linked to multiple physiological effects on vascular function and hormonal balance that might influence sexual function. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the association between caffeine intake and the risk of ED by analyzing data from cohort studies. A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase databases, and a manual search was conducted on Google Scholar for studies on the relationship between caffeine intake and ED in adult men. The search included observational studies published up to April 1, 2024. Four cohort studies were included, and their data were extracted and analyzed by STATA version 18. Four included cohort studies comprised 51,665 cohort members. The study population included adult males, on average, aged 18 to 80. The results indicate that there was no significant relationship between coffee consumption and the risk of ED (relative risk [RR] = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.86-1.03; p = 0.999). The current evidence suggests no significant relationship between caffeine intake and ED, but limited studies limit conclusions. Future research should focus on larger sample sizes, standardized outcome assessments, and different dosages and forms of caffeine consumption.

Vulvovaginal Atrophy Following Treatment for Oncogynecologic Pathologies: Etiology, Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options.

Vulvovaginal atrophy, characterized by the thinning of vaginal mucosa typically resulting from reduced estrogen levels, is frequently exacerbated by oncogynecologic treatments such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, radiotherapy, or surgery. This condition significantly impacts the quality of life for cancer survivors, leading to persistent discomfort, heightened infection risk, and negative effects on sexual function and self-esteem. Despite being a relatively common complication, vulvovaginal atrophy is not always discussed before the start of treatment. Treatments typically mirror those used for natural menopause; however, efficacy and safety data specific to this population are limited due to the exclusion of these patients from clinical trials. A major safety concern is the risk of hormone-sensitive cancer recurrence associated with estrogen therapy, which drives a preference for non-hormonal alternatives. Newer treatments, such as laser therapy, radiofrequency, and vaginal injections, show promise with minimal side effects and hormone-independent mechanisms, though efficacy data varies, highlighting the need for further research. This narrative review explores the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and management of vulvovaginal atrophy after the treatment for oncogynecologic disorders.

Subjective outcomes of female genital cosmetic procedures: a prospective study with a median follow-up of 18 months

Aims: To investigate the affects of labiaplasty and/or vaginoplasty on sexual function and satisfaction, as well as the potential to improve body image and genital self-image. Methods: A total of 131 heterosexual sexually active women receiving either a vaginoplasty and/or labioplasty were included in the study population. Patients were subsequently divided into three groups: labioplasty (LP) (n=44), vaginoplasty (VP) (n=44), and labioplasty-vaginoplasty (LVP) (n=43) for statistical evaluation. All participants were administered preoperatively and postoperatively validated questionnaires including Body Image Scale (BIS); Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Sexual Quality of Life Questionnaire-Female (SQOL-F), Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS), and Quality of Sexual Experience Scale (QSES). Results: The median follow-up was 18 months after the female genital cosmetic procedure (FGCP). FGSIS, BIS, SQOL-F, QSES, and FSDS postoperative questionnaires total scores improved significantly in the LP, VP, and LVP groups. FSFI postoperative total scores improved among all groups, but no statistically significant difference was detected in the LP group, unlike the VP and LVP groups. No intraoperative complications occurred. Postoperative complications were detected in 2 (4.5%) women in the LP group and 1 (2.3%) woman in the LVP group. These complications were wound dehiscence (