Sexual function after suburethral sling removal for dyspareunia

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Gynecology
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Sexual function impact from urinary incontinence procedures is understudied.
• Tension-free vaginal tape (TVT) placement may affect the G-spot, arousal, and sensory stimulation, leading to sexual impairment in 0-15% of cases, including dyspareunia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate sexual function changes before and after suburethral sling removal in patients with de novo dyspareunia.
• To assess overall patient satisfaction with continence post-sling removal.

Main Methods:

• 18 female patients with de novo dyspareunia post-sling insertion were included.
• Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for satisfaction were administered pre- and post-sling removal (3 months).
• Gynecological examination including ICS-pelvic organ prolapse staging was performed.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant improvements were observed in desire, arousal, lubrication, satisfaction, and pain post-sling removal.
• Orgasm scores remained low and did not change significantly.
• Patient satisfaction with continence decreased, though not statistically significantly.

Conclusions:

• Suburethral sling removal can improve specific aspects of sexual function in women with de novo dyspareunia.
• Not all domains of sexual function improve, and bladder function may be negatively affected.