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Sexual function after sacrospinous ligament fixation for vaginal vault prolapse
R L Holley1, R E Varner, B P Gleason
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham 35233-7333, USA.
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Sacrospinous ligament fixation does not cause painful intercourse (dyspareunia) on its own. However, vaginal narrowing from associated repairs can lead to sexual dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Urogynecology
- Pelvic reconstructive surgery
Background:
- Sacrospinous ligament fixation is a surgical procedure for pelvic organ prolapse.
- Potential complications include sexual dysfunction, such as dyspareunia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between sacrospinous ligament fixation and dyspareunia.
- To determine if vaginal narrowing is the causative factor for sexual dysfunction post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 36 heterosexual patients.
- Preoperative and postoperative interviews and examinations.
- Assessment of sexual activity and function, 15-79 months post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Sexual function improved or remained unchanged in most patients post-surgery.
- Vaginal narrowing, resulting from associated defect repairs, led to dyspareunia in three patients.
- The most frequent reason for sexual inactivity was partner death.
Conclusions:
- Sacrospinous ligament fixation itself does not predispose to dyspareunia.
- Vaginal narrowing associated with the repair of pelvic defects is the primary cause of dyspareunia after this procedure.