[Sexual function before surgery for pelvic organ prolapse]

The aim of our study was to assess the link between pelvic organ prolapse (POP) characteristics and sexual well-being using validated tools.

A prospective analysis was carried out in 148 women with a POP. The degree of prolapse was measured by using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POPQ). Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) questionnaire score was used to estimate the severity of symptoms. Pelvic Organ Prolapse Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire short form (PISQ-12) scores determined sexual function level.

No correlation was found concerning the global sexual function score and the POP stage (P=0.24). Pelvic and urinary symptoms were associated with a decrease in sexual function score (P=0.04 and P=0.002). Defecation symptoms were correlated with decreased sexual satisfaction (P ≤ 0.05) and were associated with premature ejaculation (P ≤ 0.05). Urinary symptoms were associated with dyspareunia (P ≤ 0.01), avoidance of sexual activities (P ≤ 0.05), negative emotions during intercourse (P ≤ 0.01) and decreased sexual excitement (P ≤ 0.05). Pelvic symptoms were significantly tied to avoidance of sexual activities (P ≤ 0.01), dyspareunia (P ≤ 0.05) and a poorer orgasm quality (P ≤ 0.05).

The degree of pelvic organ prolapse was not statistically associated with sexual function. However, urinary, pelvic and defecatory (ano-rectal) symptoms were associated with a decrease in the couple's sexual well-being.