Psychosexual development management of bladder exstrophy epispadias in complex patients

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Psychology
• Adolescent Health

Background:

• Bladder-exstrophy-epispadias complex (BEEC) encompasses a range of urogenital malformations.
• Adolescents with BEEC often face significant psychosexual development challenges.
• Limited research exists on effective psychosexual interventions for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a specialized intervention program for adolescent BEEC patients.
• To enhance self-perception and body image related to the genital area.
• To foster a more relational-affective perspective on sexuality.

Main Methods:

• A 1-year intervention program involving 13 adolescent patients.
• Utilized a test-retest methodology with the Sexuality Evaluation Schedule Assessment Monitoring (SESAMO).

Main Results:

• Participants demonstrated improved attitudes across multiple psychosexual domains.
• Key areas of change included body experience, pleasure perception, and psycho-environmental situations.
• Motivation and conflict areas also showed positive shifts.

Conclusions:

• This study is the first to show a targeted program can significantly improve psychosexual health in adolescents with BEEC.
• Adolescents require open discussion and practical guidance on psychological and sexual topics.
• The intervention shows promise in enhancing self-esteem and quality of life for young people with BEEC.