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Does Proctologic Surgery Really Influence Sexual Behaviors?
Alessandro Sturiale1, Bernardina Fabiani1, Raad Dowais1
1Proctology and Pelvic Floor Clinical Centre, Cisanello University Hospital, Pisa, Italy.
Proctologic surgery significantly impacts anal intercourse (AI) rates, with over half of patients abandoning the practice post-operation. Surgeons must counsel patients on potential sexual function changes after these procedures.
Area of Science:
- Proctology
- Sexual Health
- Surgical Outcomes
Background:
- Anal intercourse (AI) is practiced by a significant portion of the population, including heterosexual and LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Limited data exists on the effects of proctologic surgery on sexual behavior, particularly AI.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of proctologic surgery on anal intercourse (AI) practices in both men and women.
- To evaluate postoperative sexual behavior changes following proctologic interventions.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous questionnaire was administered to 929 patients over 18 who underwent proctologic surgery.
- Data collection occurred between March 2016 and February 2018, excluding patients with incomplete healing or less than 3 months follow-up.
Main Results:
- Preoperative AI prevalence was 22.5% overall (16.7% men, 28.9% women).
- Postoperative AI rate dropped to 11.8% overall.
- Among those practicing AI preoperatively, 52.6% abandoned it post-surgery, reporting pain, stiffness, and partner discomfort.
Conclusions:
- Proctologic surgery leads to a statistically significant abandonment rate of anal intercourse (AI).
- Surgeons have an ethical obligation to inform patients about potential impacts on AI and sexual function.
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