The Effect of Ureteric Stenting on Female Sexual Function: A Prospective Cohort Study

Background and objective Urolithiasis is a highly prevalent disease worldwide, with Pakistan belonging to the stone belt of Asia. The usage of the double J (DJ) stent is highly effective when it comes to the management of urolithiasis. However, studies investigating the side effects of DJ stent placement on sexual function in individuals are scarce. In this study, we aimed to assess the impact of DJ stent placement on sexual function in women. Methods After obtaining ethical approval, a prospective study was conducted at a university hospital from June 2018 to September 2019. All sexually active women requiring semi-rigid ureteroscopy (URS) or flexible URS [retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS)] were enrolled. Women with DJ stent placement (Group A) were compared to women who did not require DJ stent (Group B). The outcome variable was to assess temporary sexual dysfunction after DJ stent placement using the standardized Female Sexual Functionality Index (FSFI) in English or its validated vernacular version. The FSFI was completed at four weeks, and again at three months, following URS/RIRS. Results Of the 106 sexually active women initially included in the study, 69 were found to be eligible for final analysis. In Group A, the mean FSFI score at the initial presentation was 31.54 ±4.37. The mean FSFI score at four weeks was lower compared to the baseline score (0 time): 13.96 ±5.5 (p<0.05). At three months, the mean FSFI score returned to near baseline at 32.053 ±5.35 with no significant difference (p=0.65). In comparison to women in Group B, the mean FSFI score at four weeks was significantly lower in Group A (28.87 ±6.59 vs. 13.96 ±5.49; p<0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the mean FSFI scores at any of the three time points within Group B. Conclusion DJ stent insertion results in transient postoperative sexual dysfunction in women, which resolves spontaneously within a span of three months after stent removal.