Sexual dysfunction and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Men's Health
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Sexual health is vital for relationship satisfaction and overall well-being.
• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) commonly affects older men, causing lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
• LUTS and BPH are frequently associated with sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction (ED), ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD), and hypoactive desire (HD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between LUTS and sexual dysfunction in men with BPH.
• To highlight the impact of BPH pathophysiology and treatments on male sexual function.
• To emphasize the importance of assessing sexual function in managing BPH patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent large-scale studies investigating LUTS and sexual dysfunction.
• Analysis of pathophysiological mechanisms linking BPH to sexual response.
• Evaluation of validated questionnaires for sexual function assessment.
• Consideration of medical therapies for LUTS and their side effect profiles.

Main Results:

• A consistent and strong association exists between LUTS and both ED and EjD.
• BPH-related prostatic enlargement and its treatments can negatively impact erection and ejaculation.
• Alpha(1)-adrenergic receptor antagonists and 5alpha-reductase inhibitors are common LUTS treatments with potential sexual side effects.

Conclusions:

• Integrated management of BPH and LUTS should include comprehensive sexual function assessment.
• Monitoring medication-related sexual side effects is crucial for patient care.
• A tailored approach considering individual symptoms and goals is warranted for men with LUTS and sexual dysfunction.