Sexual health distress and needs after radical prostatectomy: a scoping review

Radical prostatectomy is one of the main causes of male sexual dysfunction after surgery, which leads to sexual health-related distress and needs for both men and their partners.

This scoping review aims to sort out and summarize the current state of sexual health, sexual health distress and needs after radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer (PCa).

The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Studies published between January 1, 2013 and June 1, 2024, were identified through systematic searches targeting research on sexual health distress, unmet needs, and support resources among PCa patients following RP. Both English and Chinese-language studies were considered. Two independent reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full texts against predefined inclusion criteria, and extracted relevant data using an iterative consensus approach.

Out of 4259 records, 53 studies were included for analysis. The findings indicate that PCa survivors and their partners experience significant physical, psychological, social, and informational unmet needs related to sexual health after RP. Sexual dysfunction remains under-communicated and poorly managed, with limited access to individualized interventions and psychosocial support. Many patients report feeling isolated and underserved.

Post-prostatectomy sexual health needs include physical dysfunction, psychosexual distress, limited support, and inadequate information. Addressing these requires multidisciplinary follow-up, individualized rehabilitation, partner-inclusive strategies, and accessible, reliable information to enhance patients' and partners' quality of life.