Impact of Partial Penectomy and Glansectomy on Couples' Sexual Function

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Urology
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Penile cancer (PC) treatment, including partial penectomy and glansectomy, can significantly affect patients' and partners' sexual function.
• Understanding the long-term sexual health outcomes is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the sexual function of couples following surgical treatment for penile cancer.
• To identify challenges and adaptive strategies related to sexual activity post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 14 couples, where patients had undergone partial penectomy or glansectomy, were interviewed at least six months post-surgery.
• Sexual function was assessed using the Six-Item Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6) for partners and the Erection Hardness Score (EHS) and International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) for patients.

Main Results:

• All male patients remained sexually active; 50% experienced mild erectile dysfunction (IIEF-5).
• Over 85% of partners remained sexually active, with 50% reporting sexual dysfunction (FSFI-6).
• Four patients (28.6%) employed adaptive strategies; couples reported dissatisfaction with medical information on post-surgery sexuality.

Conclusions:

• Sexual dysfunction is common after penile cancer surgery, affecting both patients and partners.
• Despite challenges, most couples maintain an active sexual life, with partners often achieving orgasm.
• Inadequate counseling regarding sexual health post-PC surgery by healthcare professionals was highlighted.