The effect of sleeve gastrectomy technique on women's sexual function: A prospective study

Obesity may lead to a serious deterioration in general quality of daily life and sexual functionality. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment method for obesity and related morbidities so far and it is better than some medical treatment modalities. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of bariatric surgery and especially sleeve gastrectomy, which has been currently performed in increasing numbers on female sexual functions and quality of life.

A total of 53 patients were included to the current study. The participants were selected from eligible individuals who have undergone laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy operation in our center between April 2014 and March 2015 dates. Age, body weights and body mass indexes (BMIs) of the patients were pre-operatively recorded. The patients have completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Beck Depression Scale and SF-36 (Short form-36) forms before and after the surgery. Additionally, post-operative decrease in body weights and mean BMI were recorded.

Following bariatric surgery, sexual functions of the female patients improved and total FSFI scores increased. When FSFI scores were analyzed, it was observed that sexual desire, sexual arousal, lubrication, orgasm and sexual satisfaction increased, while the pain parameter has not changed.

Recent literature reveals that unfavorable effects of increasingly prevalent obesity on sexual functions cannot be denied. We think that sleeve gastrectomy can obtain considerable weight loss, improvement in self-esteem, decrease in anxiety, amelioration in sexual functions and general quality of life.