The effect of male circumcision on pudendal evoked potentials and sexual satisfaction

Circumcision is generally considered a simple, rapid operation with medical benefits which accrue throughout life. The influence of circumcision on sexual satisfaction has always been argued. In this study, the assessment of the pudendal evoked potentials (PEP) in adults before and at least 12 weeks after circumcision was done. Healthy males aged between 18-27 years, who were willing to undergo circumcision were included in the study. Before and after circumcision, sexual performance was evaluated with the Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory (BMSFI), consisting of sexual drive, erection, ejaculation, problem assessment, and overall satisfaction sections. Forty-three adult males were enrolled in the study. Mean PEP latency was 41.97 +/- 0.25 (39.90-44.50) ms and 44.73 +/- 0.33 (40.90-47.60) ms before and after circumcision, respectively. Mean difference between pre- and postoperative PEP values was 2.76 ms which was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Mean ejaculatory latency time was significantly longer after circumcision (p < 0.001). In the light of our findings, we conclude that circumcision may contribute to sexual satisfaction by prolonging PEP latency but further studies are warranted also regarding the other dimensions of circumcision.