A Prospective Study of the Impact of Persistent Nocturnal Enuresis on Female Sexual Function

The aim of this study is to examine the effects of persistent nocturnal enuresis on female sexual function.

This prospective study included adult females with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (group 1) and healthy controls (group 2), all of whom were sexually active and in a relationship, between March 2023 and April 2024. The comparative analysis of group 1 and group 2 was performed using individual items from the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the total FSFI score, and the overall Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (SES) score. Additionally, the Incontinence Quality of Life Questionnaire (I-QOL) was employed to assess the patients' quality of life. The comparative statistical analyses were conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test and the independent samples t test. Statistical significance was considered to be p < 0.05.

A total of 60 patients were included, with 30 patients (age range 19-36) in group 1 and 30 healthy controls (age range 19-41) in group 2. Group 1 had a significantly higher I-QOL score (median 55, range 20-108) than group 2 (median 5, range 1-25; p < 0.001). FSFI score was significantly lower in group 1 across all domains: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain (p < 0.05 for all). The total FSFI score was also significantly lower in group 1 (16.21 ± 2.38) than in group 2 (24.50 ± 3.97; p < 0.001). Additionally, group 1 had a significantly lower median SES score (11, range 5-20) than group 2 (17, range 8-29; p < 0.001).

Nocturnal enuresis negatively affects sexual function and self-esteem in adult females. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing these aspects in the management of enuresis.