Sexual Function Research Articles

Mental health and health-related quality of life in adolescents surgically treated for hypospadias in childhood

BackgroundThere is limited research and conflicting results on the mental health and health-related quality of life of individuals surgically treated for hypospadias in childhood. Furthermore, the significance of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in hypospadias is growing. More research is necessary on these topics, particularly in adolescents. ObjectiveWe aimed to compare mental health, health-related quality of life, body satisfaction, self-esteem, penile appearance, and sexual function outcomes in 16-year-old adolescents who had surgery for hypospadias in childhood with a healthy comparison group. Study designThe study involved 16-year-old adolescents who had surgery for hypospadias in one Norwegian hospital. An age-matched comparison group of healthy adolescents was previously recruited. The study assessed self-reported outcomes on mental health using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, health-related quality of life using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, body satisfaction and self-esteem using the Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents, and genital perception and sexual function using the Pediatric Penile Perception Score and a non-validated structured interview. ResultsIn total, 117 adolescents operated for hypospadias and 61 healthy adolescents were included. The outcomes for mental health and health-related quality of life were not statistically different between groups. However, 18 (16%) hypospadias patients were classified as cases/borderline on mental health outcomes, compared to 2 (3%) in the comparison group (p=0.01). Patients classified as cases/borderline on mental health reported lower health-related quality of life, self-esteem, and more stressful life events. Self-reported penile appearance and sexual function were comparable between groups, however the proximal hypospadias group displayed lower satisfaction. DiscussionAlthough the present study had generally positive outcomes, a significant finding was that a higher number of adolescents who had previously undergone hypospadias surgery during childhood were classified as cases or borderline cases with respect to mental health issues. Hypospadias surgery in childhood may pose challenges for some patients during adolescence, particularly in the proximal group. Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is crucial in providing necessary support. A limitation is the small size of the subgroups. ConclusionMost patients report good mental health, quality of life, and self-esteem even though patients with hypospadias report more mental health issues than the comparison group. Proximal hypospadias were less satisfied with penile appearance and sexual function. However, due to the small sample size, conclusions about this group should be treated cautiously. Assessing self-reported outcomes in follow-ups is important to identify adolescents who had hypospadias surgery and are at risk for reduced mental health.

Current investigation of the high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in female patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a cross-sectional study.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects women of childbearing age and has been reported to cause sexual dysfunction in women. Although there are articles on sexual function in women with SLE, the number of articles is small, and the factors affecting sexual function in women with SLE are controversial. Based on this, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in Chinese female SLE patients and to explore the factors that influence it. The study design was a cross-sectional study conducted from December 2023 to April 2024 in the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology of a tertiary hospital in Hefei, Anhui Province. A total of 293 female patients diagnosed with SLE were enrolled using face-to-face questionnaires and online questionnaires. The questionnaire consisted of four parts: general information questionnaire, fatigue severity scale (FSS), depression-anxiety-stress scale (DASS-21), and female sexual functioning index (FSFI) scale. A total of 173 (59.04%) patients had sexual dysfunction, including 251 (85.67%) with decreased libido and 186 (63.46%) with difficulty in sexual arousal. There was a correlation between the patients' total FSFI scores and age (p = 0.028), marital satisfaction (p < 0.001), own education level (p = 0.008), partner's education level (p = 0.003), place of residence (p = 0.039), monthly household income (p < 0.001), family financial satisfaction(p < 0.001), menstrual status (p = 0.003), hormone use (p = 0.021),immunosuppressant use (p = 0.042), disease activity (p = 0.016), FSS score (p < 0.001), stress score (p < 0.001), anxiety score (p < 0.001) and depression score (p < 0.001)were correlated. The results of stepwise regression analysis showed that marital satisfaction (b = 2.011, t = 3.797, p < 0.001), monthly household income (b = 0.854, t = 2.316, p = 0.021), menstrual status (b = 1.218, t = 2.350, p = 0.019), fatigue scale score (b = -0.069, t = -2.302, p = 0.022), and depression score (b = -0.117, t = -2.910, p = 0.004) were the influencing factors of FSFI total score, and the difference was statistically significant. The incidence of sexual dysfunction in Chinese female SLE patients is high, and medical personnel should pay more attention to patients' sexual problems, to provide theoretical and practical bases for further prevention, treatment, and care of sexual dysfunction in female SLE patients.

237 - Impact of sexual violence on female survivors' sexual function in the Democratic Republic of Congo: preliminary results of a retrospective cohort study

237 - Impact of sexual violence on female survivors' sexual function in the Democratic Republic of Congo: preliminary results of a retrospective cohort study

The effect of transvesical laparoscopic radical prostatectomy on sexual function and urinary continence

ObjectiveTo analyze the effect of transvesical laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (TVLRP) on sexual function and urinary continence.MethodThe data of 72 patients diagnosed with low-risk and localized prostate cancer, who underwent treatment at our hospital between January 2017 and June 2022, were retrospectively analyzed. All these patients underwent TVLRP under general anesthesia. Their serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA), urinary continence and erectile function were statistically analyzed.ResultsThe operation went well with no intraoperative difficulties. The average surgical duration of 102 ± 22 min, coupled with the minimal intraoperative blood loss of 100 ± 32 mL, underscored the precision and efficacy of the surgical techniques employed. Following surgery, postoperative pathological assessments confirmed staging, revealing pT2a in 18 cases and pT2b in 54 cases, suggestive of localized tumors. Gleason scores ≤ 6 further indicated well-differentiated tumors, while consistently negative surgical margins affirmed the complete resection of tumors, reducing the likelihood of disease recurrence. Subsequent to the surgical intervention, the the average hospital stay was 13.94.1 days. A comprehensive 12-month follow-up revealed exceptionally high urinary continence rates, with 97.8% and 100% of patients achieving continence at 1 and 3 months postoperatively, respectively. Moreover, progressive improvement in erectile function recovery was observed, with recovery rates at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively reaching 82.2%, 88.4%, and 93.5%, respectively. There was no biochemical regression.ConclusionTreatment of low-risk and localized prostate cancer by TVLRP has a satisfactory urinary continence and recovery of erectile function after operation, less and complications and definite tumor-control effect.

The Effects of Sexual Education on Function and Quality of Life of Women Who Underwent Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundThis study aimed to determine the effect of sexual education on sexual function and quality of activity after total hip arthroplasty (THA). MethodsThere were 31 patients who underwent THA who were randomly assigned to the education (n = 15) and the control (n = 16) groups in this randomized controlled trial. A sexual education session and an educational handout were provided to the study group after THA prior to discharge. Patients were evaluated 4 times throughout the study: preoperatively, at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery. The data were collected by using the sociodemographic and medical data form, the Index of Female Sexual Function, the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQoL-F) Questionnaire, the visual analog scale (VAS) of the Fear of Sexual Activity, and the VAS of Satisfaction with Sexual Activity scales. ResultsThe mean sexual activity satisfaction score of the education group was higher in the second (95% confidence interval [Cl] [0.67 to 3.08]) and third follow-up (95% Cl [0.19 to 3.03]) (P < 0.05). Over time, the mean satisfaction scores of both groups increased (P < 0.05). The mean VAS fear of sexual activity scores at the first (95% CI [−2.81 to −0.48]), second (95% CI [−4.71 to −2.80]), and third (95% CI [−3.80 to −1.55]) follow-ups of the education group were significantly lower. Over time, the mean fear scores of both groups decreased (P < 0.05). The education group had higher mean SQoL-F scores at the first (95% CI [4.90 to 33.11], second (95% CI [7.62 to 34.31]), and third (95% CI [5.23 to 35.79]) follow-ups (P < 0.05). For the mean SQoL-F score, the difference between groups (F = 6.64), the change over time in both groups (F = 29.16), and the change over time between groups (F = 13.74) were statistically significant (P < 0.05). For the mean Index of Female Sexual Function score, it was found that the change over time was significantly different for both groups (F = 69.64, P < 0.05). ConclusionsSexual education after THA may improve satisfaction with sexual activity and quality of life.

Fertility, Sexual Function, and Endothelial Health in Premenopausal Women with Kidney Diseases

Fertility, Sexual Function, and Endothelial Health in Premenopausal Women with Kidney Diseases

Hybrid high and low molecular weight chains of hyaluronan for clitoral injection is an effective modality treatment for increasing female sexual satisfaction: an interventional, randomized-controlled parallel study.

Hormonal, behavioral, psychological, surgical, and pharmacopsychological treatment approaches contribute to female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Aim: The study is conducted to assess the effectiveness of hyaluronan high and low molecular weight hybrid cooperative complexes (hybrid H-HA/L-HA) in treating females with SD and to compare the female sexual function index (FSFI), dermatological life quality index (DLQI), and female genital self-image scale (FGSIS) before and after therapy. We divided the 60 female participants into two groups. Hybrid H-HA/L-HA was administered to form pili of 0.25cc around the clitoris in the direction of clock positions of 12, 3, 6, and 9. In Skene's gland; 0.25cc for each and 0.5cc into the corpus/body of the clitoris. Two treatments were held 30days apart.The same procedure was repeated on the control group, but with saline as a placebo. Women completed self-report questionnaires assessing sexual functioning using the FSFI, DLQI, and FGSIS before and after therapy. There was a significant (P= 634.152; P< .05) increase in the study group's weekly sexual interactions compared with the controls. The study group showed statistically significant amelioration in desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction domains, overall score, and a decrease in pain following the first and second injection sessions (P= .014, .031, .003, .001, .011, .004, and .011, respectively). A comparison of the results between the two groups revealed significant improvement were found (P= .025).There were significant improvements in the domains of the FGSIS compared with the controls (P= .026). The study group showed a substantial improvement in satisfaction with the way their genital area looked, comfort level when allowing a sexual partner to view their genital area, belief that their genitals smell perfectly fine without being self-conscious about them, and overall score (P= .022, .031, .003, .001, and .004, respectively) (P< .05).The hybrid H-HA/L-HA sessions resulted in significantly greater positive perceptions and feelings, leisure activities, interpersonal interactions, and general assessments (P= .021, .021, and .020, respectively) (P< .05). Female individuals with SD experience sexual improvements after hybrid H-HA/L-HA injection. This is the first study focusing on female individuals with SD. We recommend conducting the study on a larger population and including their partners. Hybrid H-HA/L-HA injection for rejuvenating the clitoral injection appears to be a reliable and safe method for enhancing female genital self-image, sexuality, and quality of life.

Prenatal and Pregnancy Management of Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia.

Management of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) poses challenges during pregnancy and prenatal stages, impacting fertility differently in men and women. Women with CAH experience menstrual irregularities due to androgen and glucocorticoid precursor interference with endometrial development and ovulation. Genital surgeries for virilization and urogenital anomalies further impact fertility and sexual function, leading to reduced heterosexual relationships among affected women. Fertility rates vary, with a lower prevalence of motherhood, primarily among those with classic CAH, necessitating optimized hormonal therapy for conception. Monitoring optimal disease control during pregnancy poses challenges due to hormonal fluctuations. Men with CAH often experience hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism and complications like testicular adrenal rest tissue, impacting fertility. Regular monitoring and intensified glucocorticoid therapy may restore spermatogenesis. Genetic counselling is vital to comprehend transmission risks and prenatal implications. Prenatal dexamethasone treatment in affected female fetuses prevents virilization but raises ethical and safety concerns, necessitating careful consideration and further research. The international "PREDICT" study aims to establish safer and more effective prenatal therapy in CAH, evaluating dosage, safety, and long-term effects.

308 - Evaluation of the Effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise During Pregnancy on Sexual Function, Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Birth Process

308 - Evaluation of the Effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercise During Pregnancy on Sexual Function, Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Birth Process

The impact of preferred language on cancer wellbeing screen outcomes.

57 Background: Preferred language is a barrier to adequately screening patients for supportive care needs. At a large health system, a Wellbeing Screen (WBS) is regularly administered to identify stressors and guide referrals to supportive services. WBS completion rates and domains of wellbeing impacted were compared among cancer patients with non-preferred English language (nPEL) vs. preferred English language (PEL). We hypothesized nPEL patients may have lower completion rates or report differing needs. Methods: A single institution retrospective study evaluating WBS among all patients receiving ambulatory cancer care at one of 7 sites from 01/2021-12/2022 was performed. The WBS instrument assesses degree of impact for 15 wellbeing domains and is assigned to patients at each oncology-related visit if a WBS has not been completed within the last 30 days. PEL vs. nPEL patients were compared for rate of completion among assigned WBS, percentage of screens with moderate/severe impact on at least one domain and for each individual domain, and average number of domains with moderate/severe impact. Fisher’s exact test was used to calculate odds ratios and p-values. Results: During the study period, a total of 12,642 patients were assigned at least one WBS resulting in 56,821 assigned WBS, of which 7,898 (13.9%) were assigned to nPEL patients. Of all assigned WBS, 20,191 (35.5%) were completed. The odds of completing an assigned WBS was 1.6 times higher for the PEL compared to nPEL group (p&lt;0.001), despite a lower average number of assigned WBS per patient in the PEL group (4.4 vs. 5.3, p&lt;0.001). Of 20,191 completed WBS, 10,097 (50.0%) WBS identified a moderate/severe impact on at least one domain. WBS completed by PEL patients had 1.42 higher odds of moderate/severe impact on at least one domain compared to those completed by nPEL (p&lt;0.001). WBS completed by PEL patients also had significantly higher odds of identifying a moderate/severe impact on 11 of the 15 individual domains (p-value &lt;0.01): Life Disruption (OR 1.9), Sexual function (OR 1.7), Body Image (OR 1.5), Feeling Valued (OR 1.5), Worry About Others (OR 1.4), Depressed Mood (OR 1.3), Anxiety (OR 1.3), Treatment Decisions (OR 1.3), Sleep Issues (OR 1.3), Cognitive Problems (OR 1.2), and Physical symptoms (OR 1.2). Among all WBS with moderate/severe impact on at least one domain, the average number of domains affected was similar at 4 domains for both groups. Conclusions: WBS assigned to PEL had higher odds of being completed compared to nPEL. In addition, WBS completed by PEL had higher odds of identifying moderate/severe impact on at least one wellbeing domain and higher odds of identifying moderate or severe impact on 11/15 of the individual WBS domains when compared to those completed by nPEL. Cultural norms, such as differential importance of or meaning ascribed to the WBS domains, along with practical barriers, such as need for an interpreter, may impact these outcomes.

The Mediating Role of Distress Tolerance in the Relationship between Anxiety and Depression and Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women with Type 2 Diabetes: A Descriptive Study

The Mediating Role of Distress Tolerance in the Relationship between Anxiety and Depression and Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women with Type 2 Diabetes: A Descriptive Study

Resultados a largo plazo de hipospadias no intervenidos: una revisión exploratoria

Introduction: The goal of hypospadias repair is to optimize urinary and sexual function, improve cosmesis and minimise the psychosocial effects associated with a penile anomaly. However, a lack of clarity exists regarding the role of surgery in milder hypospadias where the anomaly is inconspicuous and there is no anticipated impact on function. The aim of this study was to review the long term functional, cosmetic and psychosocial outcomes in men with uncorrected hypospadias. This information may be helpful for parents who are burdened with deciding the correct treatment for their child's hypospadias.Methods: A scoping review of PubMed, EMBASE, and CINAHL+ databases was performed in adherence with PRISMA guidelines. Eight studies were identified for inclusion in the review.Results: Men with mild uncorrected hypospadias have similar functional outcomes to those without hypospadias, preferring to void standing and reporting similar IPSS scores. However, those with severe untreated hypospadias experience significant urinary difficulties, higher IPSS scores, and are more likely to sit when voiding. They reported worse SHIM scores, more ventral curvature, and greater difficulty with intercourse. Most men with incidentally identified hypospadias are unaware of their condition and are satisfied with their penile appearance. There was no difference in the attainment of psychosocial milestones between men with uncorrected hypospadias versus no hypospadias.Conclusion: There is a lack of research regarding the experiences of adult men with uncorrected hypospadias. However, there is some evidence to support the non-operative management of mild hypospadias. Therefore, the decision to defer surgery in infancy should balance parental wishes and physician guidance, particularly in cases where the risk of functional impairment is low.

Who Finds Pornography Stressful? A Latent Profile Analysis.

This study explores the connection between pornography use, sexual functioning, and mental health using latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify distinct profiles among pornography users and assess variations in mental health, including anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation. The aim of this study was to identify profiles among pornography users, specifically distinguishing those with sexual distress and sexual function problems, characterize these profiles, and assess variations in mental health. Data were collected from 463 participants through an anonymous online survey. Three distinct pornography user profiles were identified based on their consumption and sexual problems: high-frequency problematic pornography use (PPU, which is defined as uncontrollable patterns of pornography use resulting in adverse consequences and significant distress) with sexual problems, high-frequency non-PPU without/with low sexual problems, and no/low-frequency non-PPU without sexual problems. Differences among the profiles emerged in anxiety and depressive symptoms as well as emotion regulation capabilities. The high-frequency PPU with sexual problems group exhibited lower emotion regulation capabilities, while the no/low-frequency non-PPU without sexual problems group reported significantly lower depressive symptoms. This study emphasizes the multifaceted nature of pornography use, revealing that certain patterns may be more problematic. The findings highlight the interplay between emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, problematic pornography use, and sexual problems and distress. Recognizing these distinct profiles is crucial for understanding the relationship between pornography use and sexual and mental well-being, ultimately contributing to more targeted interventions and improved outcomes for all populations.

Female sexual dysfunctions in multiple sclerosis patients with lower urinary tract symptoms: an Italian case-control study.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a recurrent, autoimmune, and inflammatory demyelinating chronic disease that typically manifests in young adulthood and exerts adverse effects on sexual functions. The study evaluated the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions (SDs) and the relationship with neurological disability, depression, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in a cohort of MS female patients, comparing these results with those of healthy women. From January 2023 to January 2024, consecutive premenopausal female patients with MS, were recruited and the examination included urinalysis, ultrasonography and a urodynamic test according to the International Continence Society standard. Descriptive statistics were reported as mean and standard deviation for continuous variables (analyzed by independent samples Mann-Whitney U test and independent samples Kruskal-Wallis test) while categorical variables were reported as frequency and percentage (analyzed by chi-square test with Fisher's exact test). Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) total score and all FSFI subscales scores were significantly lower in patients with MS vs healthy control subjects (P < .001); FSFI total scores and all FSFI subscale scores were statistically significantly lower in patients with MS with an International Prostate Symptom Score ≥20 (P < .001) and considering a cutoff for Beck Depression Inventory-II score ≥17, depression was present in 61% (n = 47 of 77) of patients with MS and completely absent in the control group. The knowledge that SDs are a common problem in MS and in other chronic illnesses can alleviate the feeling of stigma and talking openly of sexual problems can be helpful for the patients and so the doctor-patient relationship can be reinforced. The sample was drawn from a single center, and larger multicenter studies that include both genders are needed to obtain strong results. Our findings confirm the idea of a polygenic and multifactorial etiology of female SDs in MS. Therefore, women with MS should be evaluated in terms of SDs during follow-ups.

Examining the validity of an adaptive model of sustaining behaviors in long-distance relationships: Predicting intimacy and marital satisfaction

Long-distance romantic relationships present unique challenges, necessitating couples to employ adaptive strategies to maintain intimacy and marital satisfaction. This study aimed to examine the validity of an adaptive model of sustaining behaviors in long-distance relationships and its capacity to predict marital intimacy and satisfaction. The model included mindfulness, sexual function, religious, and online social support domains. Data were collected online from 366 couples (aged 18 to 57; Mean = 34.82, SD = 7.34; 79.8 % female) engaged in long-distance relationships. A confirmatory factor analysis confirmed the acceptable fit of the four-factor model which was also invariant across gender groups. The results indicated significant associations between sustaining behaviors and marital intimacy and satisfaction, with varying predictive power among specific components. Notably, relationship/sexual mindfulness and marital sanction/religious communication within the religion domain emerged as robust predictors. Conversely, religious practice showed a significant negative association. Additionally, the realization component of the sexual function domain significantly predicted both marital satisfaction and intimacy, while its partnership component significantly predicted only marital intimacy. None of the social support components significantly predicted marital intimacy or satisfaction. These findings are important as they highlight the nuanced interplay between sustaining behaviors and relational well-being in long-distance relationships, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions to enhance relationship quality in this context.

SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN PREGNANCY: PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS

Sexual dysfunction is a common problem affecting people around the world, and its manifestations can vary in type and severity. According to various studies, about 30-50% of men and up to 40% of women experience sexual dysfunction at different stages of their lives. In men, erectile dysfunction is the most common, especially among the elderly, while women often experience problems with libido, achieving orgasm, and other sexual dysfunctions. The impact of pregnancy on sexual function is an important topic, where studies show that 30-70% of women experience dysfunction during this period. Psycho-emotional factors such as stress and anxiety also play a significant role in causing sexual problems. Addressing these issues effectively requires open discussion and seeking help.

The effect of puboperiurethral suspension stitch placement on climacturia after robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Climacturia is defined as urine leakage associated with orgasm and can negatively affect patients' quality of life. The high prevalence of climacturia after radical prostatectomy (RP) has led to continued efforts to reduce climacturia rates. It has been shown that puboperiurethral suspension stitch placement during RP assists in the recovery of urinary continence. To evaluate the impact of puboperiurethral suspension stitch placement during RP on post-RP climacturia. We conducted a retrospective study of patients who underwent nerve-sparing robot-assisted laparoscopic RP (RALP) at our institution between 2016 and 2023. The patients were categorized into 2 groups: Group 1 (n = 32) that underwent nerve-sparing RALP with puboperiurethral suspension stitch placement and Group 2 (n = 62) that underwent nerve-sparing RALP alone. Patients who were not able to achieve penetration at the last follow-up visit were excluded from the study. The clinical history, parameters of prostate cancer, details of medical and surgical treatments, and follow-up data were evaluated. Differences in sexual and urinary function, climacturia rates, and complications between nerve-sparing RP with and without puboperiurethral suspension stitch placement. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of surgical complications. The mean follow-up time was 14.62 ± 3.55months in Group 1 and 14.43 ± 4.44months in Group 2 (P = .42). Postoperative erectile functions were similar between the groups. At the last follow-up visit, climacturia was present in 4 patients (12.5%) in Group 1 and 24 patients (38.7%) in Group 2 (P = .016). The long-term stress urinary incontinence rates were similar between the groups. This study provides comparative results on postoperative climacturia rates between nerve-sparing RALP groups with and without puboperiurethral suspension stitch placement. These results show that puboperiurethral suspension stitch can help to prevent postoperative climacturia after RP. This is the first study in the literature that evaluates the effect of puboperiurethral suspension stitch on climacturia. The limitations include the single-center, retrospective design with potential selection bias, possible inaccuracies in the recorded medical data, and challenges in controlling confounding variables. Our study demonstrated that puboperiurethral suspension stitch was a feasible option for the prevention of climacturia after RALP without an increased risk of complications.

Sensitivity, specificity and clinical cut-off point of the Persian short form version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6)

Sensitivity, specificity and clinical cut-off point of the Persian short form version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6)

Multicentre Randomized Controlled Trial of a Nurse-Led Sexual Rehabilitation Intervention to Rebuild Sexuality and Intimacy After Treatment for Gynecological Cancer.

To evaluate the effectiveness of a sexual rehabilitation program, SEXHAB, in improving sexual functioning, reducing sexual distress, and enhancing marital satisfaction for women after gynecological cancer treatment. This is a randomized controlled trial that included 150 women newly diagnosed with gynecological cancer from three public hospitals in Hong Kong. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n=78) to receive the SEXHAB or to an attention control group (n=72) to receive attention. The SEXHAB comprises four individual- or couple-based sessions with three major components: information provision, cognitive-behavioral therapy and counseling using motivational interviewing skills. The outcomes were measured at baseline (T0), upon completion of the program (T1) and 12-month post-treatment (T2). Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with the SEXHAB group participants to explore their experiences with and opinions toward the program. At both follow-ups, there were no statistically significant differences between groups in improving sexual functioning, sexual distress and marital satisfaction. Nevertheless, participants in the SEXHAB group reported their partners having significantly greater sexual interest at T1 (76% vs. 52%, rate ratio: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.99, p=0.024) and T2 (74% vs. 48%, rate ratio: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.11 to 2.10, p=0.014). From the qualitative interviews, the interviewees who resumed sexual activity reported positive experiences in rebuilding sexuality and intimacy. Despite the quantitative results are negative, the qualitative findings suggest potential benefits of the SEXHAB for women resuming sexual activities after treatment for gynecological cancer. Further studies with longer intervention period and follow-ups are needed to confirm the intervention effects.

LONG-TERM SELF-MANAGEMENT OF VAGINAL CUBE PESSARIES CAN IMPROVE SEXUAL LIFE IN PATIENTS WITH PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a widespread health issue that affects a significant proportion of women, particularly those who have experienced childbirth, undergone hysterectomy, or are postmenopausal. Objective: This study employs a secondary analysis to explore the long-term self-management of vaginal cube pessaries and its potential impact on sexual health in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Methods: The retrospective observational study was conducted at Sandeman Provincial Hospital in Quetta from 01 August 2022 to 31 July 2023. The sample consists of 100 women diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse who were treated with vaginal cube pessaries. Data was collected from the clinical records of patients who were part of the hospital’s pessary management program during the study period. Results: Data were collected from 100 participants. The majority of participants in this study were between the ages of 50 and 69 years (65%), with 75% of the women being postmenopausal. A significant portion of the population (60%) had more than two children, which is a common risk factor for pelvic organ prolapse. Most of the participants were diagnosed with moderate to severe prolapse, with 45% in Stage II and 30% in Stage III, indicating that the sample represents a range of prolapse severity, including advanced cases (Stage IV, 15%). Patient satisfaction with pessary self-management was generally high, with 50% of participants being highly satisfied and 30% moderately satisfied. Only 20% expressed dissatisfaction, which suggests that most women found self-managing their pessaries to be beneficial. Conclusion: This study concludes that long-term self-management of vaginal cube pessaries significantly improves sexual function and overall quality of life in women with pelvic organ prolapse.