Endometriose e saúde sexual feminina ­ desafios, tratamento, perfil epidemiológico e impactos biopsicossociais: uma revisão integrativa / Endometriosis and female sexual health ­challenges, treatment, epidemiological profile and biopsychosocial impacts: an integrative review / Endometriosis y salud sexual femenina ­desafíos, tratamiento, perfil epidemiológico e impactos biopsicosociales: una revisión integradora

Introdução:A endometriose consiste em uma patologia ginecológica bastante prevalente emmulheres de múltiplas faixas etárias, consistindo em um desafio constante para a fertilidade, sexualidade e demais aspectos da qualidade de vida.Objetivo:Avaliar o perfil epidemiológico, formas de tratamento e os aspectos biopsicossociais associados à saúde sexual das mulheres com endometriose. Metodologia:Esta é uma revisão integrativa da literatura cujapergunta norteadorafoi "Como a endometriose influencia nos aspectos biopsicossociais inerentes ao comportamento sexual feminino?". Foi aplicada a estratégia de busca "Endometriose AND Dispareunia AND Qualidade de Vida" na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) e sua versão em inglês "EndometriosisAND DyspareuniaAND Quality of Life" na base de dados PubMed, com ofiltro"últimos10anos"aplicadoemambasasplataformas.Critérios de inclusão: estudos que abordassem mulheres cisgênero, em idade fértil,com vida sexual ativa, diagnóstico prévio de endometriose pélvica ou profunda e distúrbios ou queixas sexuais. Critério de exclusão: artigos que contemplassem mulheres em uso de psicofármacos. Resultados:Inicialmente,foram obtidos 227 artigos. Apósanálise primária, 189 estudos foram excluídos, seguindo para a etapa seguinte apenas 38. Destes, somente 15 atenderam aos critérios e foram considerados válidos para compor o presente estudo.No âmbito sexual, a endometriose pode acarretar aredução da frequência das relações, sangramentos durante ou após o coito, desinteresse em preliminares, desconforto em certas posições, términos de relacionamentos, conflitos conjugais, e, sobretudo, dispareunia.Conclusões:Diante dos prejuízos em diversos âmbitos da vida e bem-estar feminino causados pela endometriose, faz-se indispensável maior qualificação dos serviços de saúde para o diagnóstico precoce e intervenções efetivas, bem como apoio, acolhimento e acompanhamento multiprofissional contínuo. Além disso, a adaptação, compreensão e solicitude dos parceiros são fundamentais para que as mulheres sejam capazes de melhor gerenciar tais desafios (AU).

Introduction:Endometriosis is a gynecological pathology that is quite prevalent among women of multiple age groups, representing a constant challenge to fertility, sexuality, and other aspects of quality of life.Objective:To evaluate the epidemiological profile, forms of treatment and biopsychosocial aspects associated with the sexual health of women with endometriosis.Methodology:This is an integrative review of the literature whose guiding question was "How does endometriosis influence the biopsychosocial aspects inherent to female sexual behavior?". The search strategy "Endometriosis AND Dyspareunia AND Quality of Life" was applied in the Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) and in the PubMed database, with the "last 10 years" filter applied on both platforms. Inclusion criteria: studies that addressed cisgender women, of childbearing age, with active sexual life, previous diagnosis of pelvic or deep endometriosis and sexual disorders or complaints. Exclusion criteria: articles that included women using psychotropic drugs. Results:Initially, 227 articles were obtained. After primary analysis, 189 studies were excluded, only 38 going on to the next stage. Of these, only 15 met the criteria and were considered valid to be part of the present study. In the sexual sphere, endometriosis can lead to a reduction in the frequency of intercourse, bleeding during or after coitus, lack of interest in foreplay, discomfort in certain positions, relationship endings, marital conflicts, and, above all, dyspareunia.Conclusions:Given the damage to various areas of life and female well-being caused by endometriosis, it is essential to improve the quality of health services for early diagnosis and effective interventions, as well as support, reception, and continuous multidisciplinary monitoring. Furthermore, adaptation, understanding and concern from partners are fundamental for women to be able to better manage such challenges (AU).

Introducción:La endometriosis esuna patología ginecológica bastante prevalente en mujeres de múltiples grupos etarios, que supone un reto constante para la fertilidad, la sexualidad y otros aspectos de la calidad de vida.Objetivo:Evaluar elperfil epidemiológico, las formas de tratamiento y los aspectos biopsicosociales asociados a la salud sexual de las mujeres con endometriosis.Metodología:Se trata de una revisión integradora cuya pregunta orientadora fue "¿Cómo influye la endometriosis en los aspectos biopsicosociales inherentes a la conducta sexual femenina?".Se aplicó la estrategia de búsqueda "Endometriosis AND Dispareunia AND Calidad de Vida" en la Biblioteca Virtual en Salud (BVS) y su versión en inglés en PubMed, con el filtro "últimos 10 años" enambas plataformas. Criterios de inclusión: estudios dirigidos a mujeres cisgénero en edad fértil, con vida sexual activa, diagnóstico previo de endometriosis pélvica o profunda, y trastornos o quejas sexuales. Criteriode exclusión: artículos que incluían mujeres usuarias de psicofármacos.Resultados:Inicialmente se obtuvieron 227 artículos. Después del análisis primario, se excluyeron 189 estudios y solo 38 pasaran a la siguiente etapa. De estos, solo 15 cumplieron con los criterios y seconsideraron válidos para el presente estudio. En el ámbito sexual, la endometriosis puede provocar reducción de la frecuencia de relaciones sexuales, sangrado durante o después de las relaciones sexuales, falta de interés por los juegos previos, molestias en determinadas posiciones, rupturas, conflictos matrimoniales y, sobre todo, dispareunia.Conclusiones:Ante los daños causados por la endometriosis en diversos ámbitos de la vida y el bienestar de las mujeres, es indispensable mejorar la calidad de losservicios de salud para el diagnóstico precoz y las intervenciones efectivas, así como apoyo, acogida y seguimiento multidisciplinar continuo. Además, la adaptación, comprensión y solicitud de las parejas son fundamentales para que las mujeres puedan gestionar mejor estos desafíos (AU).

Dispareunia profunda 1 ano após cirurgia minimamente invasiva de endometriose / Deep dyspareunia 1 year after minimally invasive endometriosis surgery

A endometriose é uma doença crônica associada à dor pélvica e infertilidade, que afeta a vida das mulheres em diversos aspectos como as relações sociais, sexualidade e saúde mental. O tratamento cirúrgico pode auxiliar no tratamento de diferentes tipos de dores relacionadas à endometriose, mas as consequências do procedimento em mulheres que não apresentavam dor antes da cirurgia normalmente não são reportadas. Este estudo observacional multidisciplinar do tipo série de casos avaliou 195 casos consecutivos de mulheres sexualmente ativas que foram submetidas a cirurgia de endometriose para infertilidade ou dor persistente em uma instituição privada especializada em cirurgia minimamente invasiva. O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar as alterações na dispareunia profunda um ano após cirurgia minimamente invasiva para endometriose. De um total de 259 mulheres elegidas para o estudo, 195 atenderam aos critérios de inclusão/exclusão e completaram o acompanhamento clínico de 12 meses após a cirurgia. Usando uma escala verbal numérica (EVN) de 11 pontos (0-10), as mulheres foram agrupadas de acordo com a intensidade da dispareunia profunda relatada antes da cirurgia: AUSENTE (EVN = 0), LEVE (1 ≤ EVN ≤ 3), MODERADA (4 ≤ EVN ≤ 6), e INTENSA (EVN ≥ 7). Em uma análise inicial, houve melhora significativa após 1 ano e quase metade das mulheres com dispareunia profunda (NRS>0) tornou se livre deste sintoma (NRS=0). No grupo AUSENTE (N=87), 11 mulheres reportaram dispareunia profunda 6 meses após a cirurgia, mas apenas 1 persistiu com esse sintoma no seguimento de 1 ano, condição denominada Dispareunia Profunda De Novo. Nos grupos MODERADA (N=41) e INTENSA, a melhora da dispareunia profunda 12 meses após a cirurgia foi significativa (P<0,001). Com base nos resultados, o risco de uma mulher com dispareunia profunda intensa (EVN>7) ser beneficiada pela cirurgia com diminuição do escore ≥ 3 pontos é de 82,2% (IC95%: 72,4-92,0), enquanto o risco de uma mulher sem dispareunia profunda (EVN=0) permanecer sem este sintoma após a cirurgia é de 70,1% (IC95%: 60,3-79,2). Uma análise detalhada dos casos com desfechos desfavoráveis permitiu identificar que o desenvolvimento da dispareunia profunda nos primeiros 6 meses após a cirurgia pode estar relacionado à manipulação cirúrgica do septo retovaginal e vagina, o que não foi comum nos casos que desenvolveram dispareunia profunda 12 meses após a cirurgia.

Endometriosis is a chronic disease associated with pelvic pain and infertility that affects women's lives in various aspects such as social relationships, sexuality and mental health. Surgical treatment can help in treating different types of endometriosis-related pain, but the consequences of the procedure in women who did not experience pain before surgery are usually not. This multidisciplinary case series observational study assessed 195 consecutive cases of sexually active women who had undergone endometriosis surgery for infertility or persistent pain in a private medical facility specialized in minimally invasive surgery. The aim of the study was to evaluate changes in deep dyspareunia one year after minimally invasive endometriosis surgery. Of a total of 259 women selected for the study, 195 met the inclusion/exclusion criteria and completed clinical follow-up 12 months after surgery. Using a numeric rating scale (NRS) of 11 points (0-10), women were grouped according to the intensity of deep dyspareunia prior to surgery: ABSENT (NRS = 0), MILD (1 ≤ NRS ≤ 3), MODERATE (4 ≤ NRS ≤ 6), and SEVERE (NRS ≥ 7). In an initial analysis, there was a significant improvement after 1 year and almost half of women with deep dyspareunia (NRS >0) became free of this symptom (NRS = 0). In the ABSENT group (N=87), 11 women developed deep dyspareunia 6 months after surgery, but only 1 persisted with this symptom in the following 1 year, a condition called De Novo Deep Dyspareunia. In the MODERATE (N=41) and SEVERE groups, the improvement in deep dyspareunia 12 months after surgery was significant (P<0,001). A thorough analysis of the cases with a focus on individual variations allowed the detection of different response patterns over the first year after surgery. According to the findings, the risk of a woman with severe deep dyspareunia (EVN>7) benefiting from surgery with ≥ 3 point decrease in score is 82.2% (IC95%: 72.4-92,0), while the risk of a woman without deep dyspareunia (EVN=0) remaining without this symptom after surgery is 70.1% (IC 95%: 60,3- 79,2). A detailed examination of the cases with negative outcomes revealed that the development of deep dyspareunia in the first 6 months after surgery may be related to surgical manipulation of the rectovaginal septum and vagina, which was not seen in cases with deep dyspareunia 12 months after surgery.

Sexual Function of Patients with Deep Endometriosis after Surgical Treatment: A Systematic Review / Função sexual em pacientes com endometriose profunda após o tratamento cirúrgico: Revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective To review the current state of knowledge on the impact of the surgical treatment on the sexual function and dyspareunia of deep endometriosis patients. Data Source A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. We conducted systematic searches in the PubMed, EMBASE, LILACS, and Web of Science databases from inception until December 2022. The eligibility criteria were studies including: preoperative and postoperative comparative analyses; patients with a diagnosis of deep endometriosis; and questionnaires to measure sexual quality of life. Study Selection Two reviewers screened and reviewed 1,100 full-text articles to analyze sexual function after the surgical treatment for deep endometriosis. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for observational studies and the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for randomized controlled trials. The present study was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; registration CRD42021289742). Data Collection General variables about the studies, the surgical technique, complementary treatments, and questionnaires were inserted in an Microsoft Excel 2010 (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, United States) spreadsheet. Synthesis of Data We included 20 studies in which the videolaparoscopy technique was used for the excision of deep infiltrating endometriosis. A meta-analysis could not be performed due to the substantial heterogeneity among the studies. Classes III and IV of the revised American Fertility Society classification were predominant and multiple surgical techniques for the treatment of endometriosis were performed. Standardized and validated questionnaires were applied to evaluate sexual function. Conclusion Laparoscopic surgery is a complex procedure that involves multiple organs, and it has been proved to be effective in improving sexual function and dyspareunia in women with deep infiltrating endometriosis.

Resumo Objetivo Revisar a literatura publicada sobre o impacto do tratamento cirúrgico na função sexual e na dispareunia de pacientes com endometriose profunda. Fonte de Dados Uma revisão sistemática foi realizada de acordo com as diretrizes Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE). Realizamos pesquisas sistemáticas nas bases de dados PubMed, EMBASE, LILACS e Web of Science desde o início até dezembro de 2022. Os critérios de elegibilidade foram estudos que incluíam: análises comparativas pré- e pós-operatórias; pacientes com diagnóstico de endometriose profunda; e a aplicação de questionários para avaliar a função sexual. Seleção dos Estudos Dois revisores selecionaram e revisaram 1.100 artigos para analisar a da função sexual após o tratamento cirúrgico da endometriose profunda. O risco de viés foi calculado usando-se a escala de Newcastle-Ottawa para estudos observacionais e a ferramenta para ensaios clínicos randomizados da Cochrane Collaboration. O estudo foi cadastrado no International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; cadastro CRD42021289742). Coleta de dados Variáveis gerais sobre os estudos, a técnica cirúrgica, os tratamentos complementares e os questionários foram inseridas em uma planilha do Microsoft Excel 2010 (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, Estados Unidos). Síntese dos dados Foram incluídos 20 estudos em que se usou a técnica de videolaparoscopia para a excisão da endometriose profunda. Uma meta-análise não pôde ser realizada devido à heterogeneidade substancial entre os estudos incluídos. As classes III e IV da escala revisada da American Fertility Society foram predominantes, e múltiplas técnicas cirúrgicas foram usadas para o tratamento da endometriose. Questionários padronizados e validados foram aplicados para avaliar a função sexual. Conclusão A cirurgia laparoscópica é um procedimento complexo que envolve múltiplos órgãos, e provou ser eficaz na melhora da função sexual e da dispareunia em mulheres com endometriose profunda.

Efficacy of Hormonal and Nonhormonal Approaches to Vaginal Atrophy and Sexual Dysfunctions in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review / Eficácia das abordagens hormonais e não hormonais para atrofia vaginal e disfunções sexuais em mulheres na pós-menopausa: Uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective To evaluate the efficacy of the hormonal and nonhormonal approaches to symptoms of sexual dysfunction and vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women. Data Sources We conducted a search on the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases, as well as on clinical trial databases. We analyzed studies published between 1996 and May 30, 2020. No language restrictions were applied. Selection of Studies We selected randomized clinical trials that evaluated the treatment of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Data Collection Three authors (ACAS, APFC, and JL) reviewed each article based on its title and abstract. Relevant data were subsequently taken from the full-text article. Any discrepancies during the review were resolved by consensus between all the listed authors. Data Synthesis A total of 55 studies were included in the systematic review. The approaches tested to treat sexual dysfunction were as follows: lubricants and moisturizers (18 studies); phytoestrogens (14 studies); dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA; 8 studies); ospemifene (5 studies); vaginal testosterone (4 studies); pelvic floor muscle exercises (2 studies); oxytocin (2 studies); vaginal CO2 laser (2 studies); lidocaine (1 study); and vitamin E vaginal suppository (1 study). Conclusion We identified literature that lacks coherence in terms of the proposed treatments and selected outcome measures. Despite the great diversity in treatment modalities and outcome measures, the present systematic review can shed light on potential targets for the treatment, which is deemed necessary for sexual dysfunction, assuming that most randomized trials were evaluated with a low risk of bias according to the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias tool. The present review is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42018100488).

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a eficácia das abordagens hormonais e não hormonais para os sintomas de disfunção sexual e atrofia vaginal em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Fontes de Dados Pesquisamos as bases de dados PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, SciELO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), e Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), assim como bancos de dados de ensaios clínicos. Foram analisados estudos publicados entre 1996 e 30 de maio de 2020. Nenhuma restrição de idioma foi aplicada. Seleção dos Estudos Foram selecionados ensaios clínicos randomizados que avaliavam o tratamento das disfunções sexuais em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Coleta de Dados Três autores (ACAS, APFC e JL), revisaram cada artigo com base em seu título e resumo. Os dados relevantes foram posteriormente retirados do texto completo do artigo. Quaisquer discrepâncias durante a revisão foram resolvidas por consenso entre todos os autores listados. Síntese dos Dados Ao todo, 55 estudos foram incluídos na revisão sistemática. As abordagens testadas para tratar a disfunção sexual foram: lubrificantes e hidratantes (18 estudos); fitoestrogênios (14 estudos); deidroepiandrosterona (DHEA; 8 estudos); ospemifeno (5 estudos); testosterona vaginal (4 estudos); exercícios para os músculos do assoalho pélvico (2 estudos); oxitocina (2 estudos);laser de CO2 vaginal (2 estudos); lidocaína (1 estudo), e vitamina E vaginal (1 estudo). Conclusão Identificou-se falta de coerência na literatura quanto aos tratamentos propostos e medidas de resultados selecionadas. Apesar da grande diversidade de modalidades de tratamento e medidas de resultados, esta revisão sistemática pode lançar luz sobre alvos potenciais para o tratamento, que é considerado necessário para a disfunção sexual, assumindo que a maioria dos estudos randomizados foi avaliada com baixo risco de viés de acordo com a ferramenta de avaliação de risco de viés de Cochrane Collaboration. Esta revisão tem cadastro no International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO; CRD42018100488).

Quality of life of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer after neoadjuvant therapy and sphincter-preserving surgery / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To investigate quality of life (QoL) of patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) who underwent low anterior resection with protective stoma under neoadjuvant therapy mode, and to explore the changes of QoL of patients from before neoadjuvant therapy to 12 months after stoma reversal. Methods: A descriptive case series study was carried out. A retrospective study was performed on patients with mid and low LARC who received complete neoadjuvant long course radiotherapy and chemotherapy, followed by radical low anterior resection (LAR) combined with protective stoma at Peking Union Medical College Hospital from December 2017 to January 2020. Inclusion criteria: (1) patients with rectal MRI assessment of mT3-4b or mN1-2 without distant metastasis (M0) before neoadjuvant therapy; (2) distance from tumor lower margin to the anal verge <12 cm; (3) rectal adenocarcinoma confirmed by biopsy before neoadjuvant therapy; (4) complete cycle of neoadjuvant therapy; (5) patients undergoing radical LAR with sphincter preservation and protective ostomy; (6) patients receiving follow-up for more than 12 months after stoma reversal. Exclusion criteria: (1) patients as grade Ⅳ to Ⅴclassified by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA); (2) patients with multiple primary colorectal cancer; (3) patients with history of other malignant tumors in the past 5 years; (4) patients of emergency surgery; (5) pregnant or lactating women; (6) patients with history of severe mental illness; (7) patients with contraindication of MRI, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgical treatment. A total of 83 patients were enrolled, including 51 males and 28 females with median age of 59 years and mean BMI of (24.4±3.1) kg/m(2). EORTC QLQ-CR29, international erectile function index (IIEF), Wexner constipation score and low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score were applied to investigate the QoL of the patients before neoadjuvant therapy, 3 and 12 months after ostomy reversal, including rectal anal function and sexual function. M (P25, P75) was used for the scores of the scale. Results: (1) EORTC QLQ-CR29 score showed that before neoadjuvant therapy, before surgery, 3 months and 12 months after ostomy reversal, anxiety [64.4 (52, 0, 82.5), 75.3 (66.0, 89.5), 82.6 (78.5, 90.0), 83.6 (78.0, 91.0)] and concern about body image [76.8 (66.0, 92.0), 81.1 (76.5, 91.5), 85.5 (82.5, 94.0), 86.1 (82.0, 92.0)] were improved (all P<0.01); pelvic pain [5.4 (2.0, 8.0), 5, 0 (2.0, 7.8), 3.9 (1.0, 5.0), 3.0 (1.0, 5.0)], urinary incontinence [15.7 (7.0, 22.0), 11.1 (0, 17.5), 10.0 (0, 17.0), 9.9 (0, 16.0)], impotence [14.3 (4.2, 19.0), 12.2 (0, 16.8), 5.6 (0, 10.0), 5.2 (0.2, 8.0)], urinate [26.4 (13.0, 38.5), 13.9 (0, 20.0), 13.4 (2.5, 21.5), 13.2 (2.0, 20.0)] and mucous bloody stool [4.7 (3.0, 6.0), 2.6 (0, 5.0), 2.2 (0, 5.0), 1.9 (0, 4.0)] were improved as well (all P<0.01). The scores fluctuated in the improvement of male sexual function, abdominal pain, dry mouth, worry about body mass change, skin pain and dyspareunia, but the symptoms were significantly improved after ostomy reversal compared with before neoadjuvant therapy (all P<0.05). There were no significant changes in female sexual function, dysuria, dysgeusia and fecal incontinence after ostomy reversal compared with before neoadjuvant therapy (all P>0.05). (2) IIEF scale showed that all scores were similar before and after neoadjuvant therapy (all P>0.05). (3) Rectal and anal function scale revealed that before neoadjuvant therapy, before operation, 3 months and 12 months after stoma reversal, gas incontinence [3.1 (0, 4.0), 2.3 (0, 4.0), 1.8 (0, 4.0), 1.2 (0, 3.0)] and urgent defecation [7.2 (0, 11.0), 5.2 (0, 11.0), 2.9 (0, 9.0), 1.7 (0, 0)] were improved (all P<0.001). In terms of improving incomplete emptying sensation, the symptoms fluctuated, but the symptoms improved significantly after ostomy reversal compared with before neoadjuvant therapy (all P<0.05). While the symptoms of assistance with defecation [0 (0, 0), 0.7 (0, 1.0), 0.6 (0, 1.0), 0.7 (0, 1.0)] and defecation failure [0.2 (0, 0), 1.0 (0, 2.0), 0.8 (0, 1.5), 0.8 (0, 1.0)] showed a worsening trend (all P<0.001). Stratified analysis was performed on patients with different efficacy of neoadjuvant therapy to compare the changes in QoL before and after neoadjuvant therapy. Patients with less sensitive and more sensitive neoadjuvant therapy showed similar changes in function and symptoms. Patients with less sensitive therapy showed significant improvement in dysuria, urinary incontinence, skin pain and dyspareunia (all P<0.05), and the symptom of defecation frequency in more sensitive patients was significantly improved (P<0.05). Conclusions: For patients with LARC, neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy combined with radical LAR and protective stoma can improve QoL in many aspects. It is noted that patients show a worsening trend in the need for assistance with defecation and in defecation failure.

Family, religion, and sex education among women with vaginismus: a qualitative study / Família, religião e educação sexual em mulheres com vaginismo: um estudo qualitativo / Familia, religión y educación sexual en mujeres con vaginismo: un estudio cualitativo

The diagnosis and treatment of vaginismus are complex, involving biopsychological factors and insufficient etiological assessment. For this reason, we discuss the aspects implicated in vaginismus concerning religion, family, and sex education from the perspective of women affected by vaginismus. This qualitative, exploratory study addressed nine women who experienced vaginismus, accompanied by dyspareunia or not. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using content analysis. The results are distributed into two categories: learned concepts about sex and searching for knowledge to fill in information gaps concerning sexuality and sexual dysfunctions. Inadequate sex education leads to ignorance, rigidity, and misconceptions, generating insecurity. Thus, it is relevant to instruct and sensitize families, workers, and those in religious contexts regarding a healthy and constructive way to address sexuality while respecting beliefs and values. There is also a need to improve the health care services provided to this population.

O diagnóstico e o tratamento do vaginismo são complexos porque envolvem fatores biopsicossociais e insuficiente avaliação etiológica. Por conta disso, buscou-se discutir aspectos do vaginismo referentes à religião, família e educação sexual, sob a perspectiva de mulheres que apresentam essa disfunção. Trata-se de um estudo qualitativo, de caráter exploratório, com nove mulheres que experienciaram vaginismo acompanhado ou não de dispareunia. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e analisados a partir da análise de conteúdo. Os resultados foram dispostos em duas categorias referentes às concepções apreendidas sobre sexo e a busca por conhecimento diante das lacunas de informações sobre sexualidade e disfunções sexuais. Percebe-se que uma educação sexual inadequada propicia desconhecimento, rigidez e equívocos, o que gera insegurança. Portanto, é necessário instruir e conscientizar as famílias, os profissionais e os contextos religiosos acerca de formas saudáveis e construtivas de abordar a sexualidade, respeitando crenças e valores. Aponta-se ademais para a necessidade aprimoramento na prestação de serviços em saúde para essa população.

El diagnóstico y tratamiento del vaginismo son complejos, implican factores biopsicosociales y una evaluación etiológica insuficiente. Debido a esto, buscamos discutir aspectos del vaginismo relacionados con religión, familia y educación sexual, desde la perspectiva de las mujeres con vaginismo. Este es un estudio exploratorio cualitativo con nueve mujeres que experimentaron vaginismo, con o sin dispareunia. Los datos se recopilaron a través de entrevistas semiestructuradas y se analizaron en función del análisis de contenido. Los resultados fueron organizados en dos categorías con respecto a los conceptos aprendidos sobre sexo y la búsqueda de conocimiento frente a lagunas de información sobre sexualidad y disfunciones sexuales. Se percibe que una educación sexual inadecuada proporciona ignorancia, rigidez y malentendidos, generando inseguridad. Por lo tanto, es necesario instruir y crear conciencia entre familias, profesionales y contextos religiosos sobre formas saludables y constructivas de abordar la sexualidad, respetando creencias. También señala la necesidad de mejorar la provisión de servicios de salud para esta población.

Prevalencia y caracterización de los factores asociados a dispareunia en mujeres con antecedente de parto vaginal o cesárea / Prevalence and characterization of factors associated with dyspareunia in women with a history of vaginal delivery or cesarean section

INTRODUCCIÓN: El deterioro de la función sexual asociado a la dispareunia después del parto es una importante preocupación para muchas mujeres. OBJETIVO: Establecer la prevalencia y caracterizar los factores asociados a la dispareunia en mujeres con antecedente de parto vaginal o cesárea. MÉTODO: Estudio de corte transversal realizado en 975 mujeres mayores de 18 años, residentes en Armenia (Colombia), con 6 meses o más en posparto (vaginal o cesárea), sexualmente activas, entre 2013 y 2017. Se utilizó como instrumento el Índice de Función Sexual Femenino Abreviado (IFSFA-6). Se midieron variables sociodemográficas y obstétricas relacionadas con la dispareunia. Se hizo estadística descriptiva. Los factores asociados se evaluaron comparando los dos grupos mediante odds ratio (OR) e intervalo de confianza del 95% (IC95%). RESULTADOS: La edad promedio fue de 27,12 ± 4,48 años. La prevalencia de dispareunia fue del 35,69%. Los factores de riesgo más involucrados fueron la episiotomía (OR: 1,58; IC95%: 1,29-2,15; p = 0,003), el parto instrumentado (OR: 1,91; IC95%: 1,31-3,17; p = 0,027), haber tenido tres o más partos vaginales (OR: 1,85; IC95%: 1,42-2,46; p < 0,001)] y haber tenido dos o más cesáreas (OR: 1,64; IC95%: 1,27-2,18; p < 0,001). Las mujeres con dispareunia tienen menos encuentros sexuales semanales (2; rango: 0-3) que las mujeres sin dispareunia (5; rango: 2-7) (p = 0,003). CONCLUSIONES: La prevalencia de dispareunia en el posparto, en las mujeres de Armenia, sobrepasa un tercio de la población. Se hace necesario promover programas preventivos, dirigidos a los profesionales de la salud que asisten a la mujer durante el parto, acerca del análisis de la verdadera necesidad de la episiotomía o la cesárea.

INTRODUCTION: The deterioration of sexual function, associated with dyspareunia after childbirth, is an important concern for many women. OBJECTIVE: To establish the prevalence and characterize the factors associated with dyspareunia in women, with a history of vaginal delivery or cesarean section. METHOD: Cross-sectional study, carried out in 975 sexually active women older than 18 years, residents in Armenia (Colombia), with 6 or more months postpartum (vaginal deliveries and cesarean sections); between 2013 and 2017. The Abbreviated Female Sexual Function Index (IFSFA-6) was used as an instrument. Sociodemographic and obstetric variables related to dyspareunia were measured. Descriptive statistics were made. Associated factors were evaluated comparing the two groups using odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (95%CI). RESULTS: The average age was 27.12 ± 4.48 years. The prevalence of dyspareunia was 35.69%. The risk factors most involved were: episiotomy (OR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.29-2.15; p = 0.003), instrumented delivery (OR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.31-3.17; p = 0.027), three or more vaginal deliveries (OR: 1.85; 95% CI: 1.42-2.46; p < 0.001) and two or more caesarean sections (OR: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.27-2.18; p < 0.001). Women with dyspareunia have fewer weekly sexual encounters (2; range: 0-3) than women without dyspareunia (5; range: 2-7) (p = 0.003). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of dyspareunia in postpartum, in Armenian women, exceeds 1/3 of the population. It is necessary to promote preventive programs, aimed at health professionals who assist women during childbirth, regarding the analysis of the true need for episiotomy or cesarean section.

Triticum vulgare para el tratamiento del síndrome genitourinario de la menopausia, Armenia, Colombia / Triticum vulgare for the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause, Armenia, Colombia

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la eficacia y la seguridad de Triticum vulgare en el tratamiento del síndrome genitourinario de la menopausia (SGUM). MÉTODO: Estudio cuasiexperimental (antes-después, con grupo control) en mujeres posmenopáusicas (amenorrea ≥ 36 meses, hormona estimulante del folículo > 40 U/l y estradiol < 25 pg/ml), sexualmente activas, con un índice de maduración vaginal (IMV) < 50 y pH ≥ 5, citología cervical negativa (Papanicolaou) y diagnóstico de SGUM, atendidas en el programa de climaterio y menopausia de una clínica privada de mediana complejidad, en Armenia, Quindío (Colombia). Se seleccionaron 207 mujeres con edad promedio de 55,19 ± 7,28 años. Se realizó un muestreo consecutivo. Se asignaron dos grupos: A (n = 105), que recibió T. vulgare, y B (n = 102), que recibió placebo. Se hizo seguimiento al inicio (basal) y 4, 8 y 12 semanas después, utilizando el IMV y el Índice de Función Sexual Femenina (IFSF). Los síntomas del SGUM se evaluaron con una escala visual analógica (EVA). Se aplicó estadística descriptiva. RESULTADOS: La puntuación media del IMV fue mayor en las semanas 4, 8 y 12 en todas las mujeres del grupo A (p = 0,01). Se observó una diferencia significativa en el promedio final de la puntuación del IMV de T. vulgare frente al placebo (p < 0,05). Al final del estudio, el grupo A mostró una mejoría significativa en la puntuación promedio del IFSF, en comparación con el grupo B (p < 0,001). Las puntuaciones de la EVA presentaron una disminución progresiva a lo largo del estudio, pero fueron comparables entre los dos grupos (p = 0,813). CONCLUSIONES: T. vulgare es una efectiva, segura e innovadora alternativa, no hormonal, para el tratamiento del SGUM. No se registraron eventos adversos, por lo que se demostró su seguridad.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Triticum vulgare in the treatment of genitourinary syndrome of menopause. METHOD: Quasi-experimental study (before-after, with control group) in postmenopausal women (amenorrhea ≥ 36 months, FSH > 40 U/L and estradiol < 25 pg/ml), sexually active, with a vaginal maturation index (VMI) < 50 and pH ≥ 5, negative cervical cytology (Papanicolaou) and with a diagnosis of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (SGUM); who were treated in the climacteric and menopause program of a private clinic of medium complexity, in Armenia, Quindío (Colombia). 207 participants were selected, with a mean age of 55.19 ± 7.28 years. A consecutive sampling was carried out. Two groups were assigned: A (n = 105) with T. vulgare and B (n = 102) with placebo. Follow-up was done at baseline (baseline), four, eight and twelve weeks later, using the VMI and the female sexual function index (IFSF). Symptoms of SGUM were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS). Descriptive statistics were applied. RESULTS: The mean score of the IMV was higher in weeks 4, 8 and 12 in all the participants of group A (p = 0.01). A significant difference was observed in the final mean MVI score of T. vulgare versus placebo (p < 0.05). At the end of the study, group A showed a significant improvement in the mean IFSF score, compared to placebo (p < 0.001). The VAS scores showed a progressive decrease throughout the study but were comparable between the two groups (p = 0.813). CONCLUSIONS: T. vulgare is an effective, safe and innovative non-hormonal alternative for the treatment of SGUM. No adverse events were recorded, guaranteeing their safety.

Disfunção sexual em mulheres com câncer do colo do útero submetidas à radioterapia: análise de conceito / Disfunción sexual en mujeres con cáncer de cuello uterino sometidas a radioterapia: análisis de concepto / Sexual dysfunction in women with cervical cancer undergoing radiotherapy: concept analysis

Resumo Objetivo analisar o conceito de disfunção sexual em mulheres com câncer do colo do útero submetidas a tratamento radioterápico. Método estudo de análise de conceito fundamentado no referencial metodológico proposto por Walker e Avant, o qual é composto por oito etapas: seleção do conceito; determinação dos objetivos da análise conceitual; identificação dos possíveis usos do conceito; determinação dos atributos críticos ou essenciais; construção de um caso modelo; construção de casos adicionais; identificação dos antecedentes e consequentes do conceito; e definição das referências empíricas. Resultados a amostra final resultou em 11 artigos, que identificaram 4 atributos críticos, 18 antecedentes e 07 consequentes do conceito, os quais permitiram a construção de uma definição conceitual e elaboração de um caso-modelo, com a finalidade de exemplificar o contexto social no qual o conceito encontra-se inserido. Conclusão e implicações para prática alterações na estrutura corporal, déficit de conhecimento, diminuição da frequência das relações sexuais, dispareunia e indiferença do parceiro são alguns dos principais antecedentes e consequentes da disfunção sexual na população estudada. Entretanto, esses fatores ainda são pouco conhecidos, o que limita a realização de ações de promoção, prevenção e reabilitação sexual, sobretudo no campo da enfermagem.

Resumen Objetivo analizar el concepto de disfunción sexual en mujeres con cáncer de cuello uterino sometidas a tratamiento radioterápico. Método estudio de análisis de concepto basado en el marco metodológico de Walker y Avant, compuesto por ocho etapas: selección del concepto; determinación de los objetivos del análisis conceptual; identificación de posibles usos del concepto; determinación de atributos críticos o esenciales; construcción de un caso modelo; construcción de casos adicionales; identificación de antecedentes y consecuentes del concepto; y definición de referencias empíricas. Resultados La muestra final resultó en 11 artículos: 04 críticos, 18 antecedentes y 07 consecuentes del concepto, lo que permitió la construcción de una definición conceptual y la elaboración de un caso modelo con el fin de ejemplificar el contexto social en que se inserta el concepto. Conclusión e implicaciones para la práctica Cambios en la estructura corporal, déficit de conocimiento, disminución de la frecuencia de las relaciones sexuales, dispareunia y la indiferencia de la pareja son algunos de los principales antecedentes y consecuentes de la disfunción sexual en la población estudiada. Sin embargo, estos factores aún son poco conocidos, lo que limita la realización de acciones de promoción, prevención y rehabilitación sexual, especialmente en el campo de la enfermería.

Abstract Objective to analyze the concept of sexual dysfunction in women with cervical cancer undergoing radiotherapy. Method a concept analysis study based on the methodological framework proposed by Walker and Avant, which consists of eight stages: concept selection; determination of the objectives of the conceptual analysis; identification of possible uses of the concept; determination of critical or essential attributes; construction of a model case; construction of additional cases; identification of the antecedents and consequences of the concept; and definition of empirical references. Results the final sample resulted in 11 articles, which identified 4 critical attributes, 18 antecedents and 07 consequences of the concept, which allowed the construction of a conceptual definition and the elaboration of a model case in order to exemplify the social context in which the concept is inserted. Conclusion and implications for practice changes in body structure, lack of knowledge, decreased frequency of sexual intercourse, dyspareunia, and partner's indifference are some of the main antecedents and consequences of sexual dysfunction in the studied population. However, these factors are still little known, which limits the performance of actions of promotion, prevention and sexual rehabilitation, especially in the field of nursing.

Estado del arte en el manejo endovascular del síndrome de congestión pélvica / State of the Art in the Endovascular Management of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

El dolor pélvico crónico (DPC) se define como un dolor de localización pélvica con una duración mayor a 6 meses. Es una causa importante de consulta médica, y afecta entre el 24 % y el 45 % de las mujeres en el mundo. El síndrome de congestión pélvica (SPC) es una fuente notable y muchas veces poco diagnosticada de dolor pélvico crónico en pacientes, en su mayoría premenopáusicas, que afecta de forma relevante la calidad de vida. El principal objetivo de este artículo es demostrar las múltiples opciones diagnósticas y diferentes dispositivos terapéuticos que se usan para la embolización selectiva, para dar un adecuado manejo y resolución al síndrome de congestión pélvica. En conclusión, el SPC es una entidad altamente dolorosa, incapacitante e importante para tener en cuenta por su alta prevalencia y morbilidad asociadas. El tratamiento endovascular ha demostrado ser una opción altamente confiable, segura, con bajas tasas de complicaciones, menor tiempo de recuperación y estancias hospitalarias más cortas, en comparación con la opción quirúrgica. Es importante conocer el material y utilizarlo correctamente, lo cual ayudará a evitar complicaciones.

Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) is defined as pain in the pelvic area with a duration more than 6 months. It's an important cause of medical consultation, affecting approximately between 24 and 45% of women in the world. Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is a notable and often under-diagnosed cause of chronic pelvic pain in patients, mostly premenopausal, that significantly affects quality of life. The main objective of this paper is to demonstrate the multiple diagnostic options and different therapeutic devices that are used for selective embolization, giving adequate management and resolution of pelvic congestion syndrome. In conclusion, PCS is a highly painful, disabling and important pathology to take into account due to its high prevalence and associated morbidity. Endovascular treatment has proven to be a highly reliable and safe option, with low complication rates, shorter recovery time, and briefer hospital stays compared to the surgical option. It's important to know the material and use it correctly which will help avoid complications.

Dispareunia y vaginismo, trastornos sexuales por dolor / Dispareunia and vaginism, sexual disorders due to pain

Introducción: Dentro de los trastornos sexuales por dolor, se estudian la dispareunia y el vaginismo. El Manual diagnóstico y estadístico de los trastornos mentales V, los engloba bajo la categoría trastorno de dolor génito-pélvico y penetración. En Cuba, no existen muchos referentes teóricos de estas enfermedades. Objetivo: Sistematizar y actualizar los referentes teóricos relacionados con la dispareunia y el vaginismo, desde un enfoque sexológico. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión de la literatura publicada sobre el tema, de los últimos diez años, a texto completo, en las bases de datos SciELO y desde la búsqueda con Google académico con las palabras claves: trastornos sexuales por dolor, dispareunia y vaginismo. Desarrollo: La dispareunia y el vaginismo presentan una etiología multifactorial y variables grados de afectación del disfrute sexual de las parejas. Se presentan los aspectos esenciales de ambas entidades, fundamentalmente la clasificación, etiología, caracterización clínica, evaluación y el tratamiento. Conclusiones: La dispareunia y el vaginismo, son dos afecciones que afectan la vida sexual plena y satisfactoria y requieren de conocimientos, orientación y tratamiento especializado para que los resultados sean satisfactorios(AU)

Introduction: Within sexual disorders due to pain, dyspareunia and vaginismus are studied. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V encompasses them under the category of pelvic pain and penetration disorder. In Cuba, there are not many theoretical references of these diseases. Objective: Systematize and update the theoretical references related to dyspareunia and vaginismus, from a sexological approach Methods: A review of the literature published on the subject, of the last ten years, in full text, in the SciELO databases and from the search with academic Google with the keywords: sexual disorders due to pain, dyspareunia and vaginismus. Development: Dyspareunia and vaginismus have a multifactorial etiology and varying degrees of impairment of sexual enjoyment of couples. The essential aspects of both entities are presented, fundamentally the classification, etiology, clinical characterization, evaluation and treatment. Conclusions: Dyspareunia and vaginismus are two conditions that affect full and satisfactory sex life and require specialized knowledge, guidance and treatment for the results to be satisfactory(AU)

Treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico em mulheres com dispareunia: um ensaio clínico randomizado / Pelvic floor muscles training in women with dyspareunia: randomized clinical trial

Introdução: A dispareunia afeta a função sexual feminina, bem como a qualidade de vida. Deste modo, o treinamento do assoalho pélvico gera consciência da região vaginal, bem como melhora da função sexual. Objetivo: Analisar o efeito do treinamento dos músculos do assoalho pélvico (TMAP) na qualidade de vida de mulheres com dispareunia. Métodos: Trata-se de um ensaio clínico randomizado em mulheres sexualmente ativas com sintomas de dispareunia que foram aleatoriamente distribuídas em Grupo Intervenção (GI; n = 6) e Grupo Controle (GC; n = 7). A função sexual foi verificada através do Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). A interferência da dispareunia na qualidade de vida foi verificada por uma escala visual analógica (0= nenhuma interferência; 10= máxima interferência). O GI foi submetido ao TMAP por oito semanas, sendo dois encontros semanais com e duração de 40 minutos, e o GC não recebeu nenhum treinamento. Para análise dos dados, utilizou-se estatística descritiva e inferencial, com nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Observou-se que os domínios desejo, excitação, lubrificação, orgasmo e satisfação não apresentaram diferença significativa em ambos os grupos. No entanto, houve diminuição dos valores encontrados no domínio dor (p = 0,043; d = 1,24) no GI. Quanto à interferência da dispareunia na qualidade de vida, os valores foram significativamente melhores no GI (p = 0,022; d = 1,95). Conclusão: Após intervenção fisioterapêutica de treino dos músculos do assoalho pélvico, há melhora da dor em mulheres. (AU)

Introduction: Dyspareunia affects female sexual function as well as quality of life. In this mode, pelvic floor training generates awareness of the vaginal region as well as enhances sexual function. Aim: To analyze the effect of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on the quality of life of women with dyspareunia. Methods: This was a randomized clinical trial in sexually active women with symptoms of dyspareunia that were randomly assigned to Intervention Group (GI; n = 6) and Control Group (CG; n = 7). Sexual function was verified through the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Dyspareunia interference on quality of life was verified by a visual analog scale (0 = no interference; 10 = maximum interference). The GI was submitted to the PFMT for eight weeks, two weekly meetings lasting 40 minutes, and the CG received no training. For data analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics were used, with a significance level of 5%. Results: The domains desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm and satisfaction did not present significant difference in both groups. However, there was a decrease in the values found in the pain domain (p = 0.043; d = 1.24) in the GI. Regarding the interference of dyspareunia in quality of life, values were significantly better in GI (p = 0.022; d = 1.95). Conclusion: After physical therapy intervention of pelvic floor muscles training there is pain improvement in women. (AU)

Anodispareunia. Dolor anal durante las relaciones sexuales anorreceptivas en hombres que tienen sexo con hombres / Anodyspareunia. Anal pain during anoreceptive sex in men who have sex with men

Introducción: La región perianal es un área muy rica en terminaciones nerviosas sensitivas, hecho que determina que el erotismo anal sea frecuente, independientemente de la identidad y orientación sexuales. Pese a ello, el impacto del sexo anal receptivo (SAR) en la salud anal ha sido poco estudiado. Algunas personas experimentan dolor durante las relaciones sexuales anorreceptivas. Los objetivos del presente trabajo fueron evaluar su prevalencia en una muestra del colectivo de hombres que tienen sexo con hombres (HSH) residentes en la Argentina, e identificar potenciales factores asociados a su aparición.Diseño: Estudio descriptivo, transversal.Población y método: Se diseñó una encuesta que incluyó variables demográficas y factores relacionados con el SAR. Fue respondida de forma voluntaria y anónima por Internet entre marzo de 2015 y febrero de 2016. Se incluyeron HSH mayores de 18 años residentes en la Argentina, que hubieran practicado SAR durante las últimas cuatro semanas. Se realizaron análisis estadísticos bivariados y multivariados en modelos de regresión logística. Resultados: Respondieron la encuesta 208 HSH. Se seleccionaron para el análisis 135 (64,9%) que acreditaron haber mantenido SAR en las últimas cuatro semanas. El 76,3% pertenecía a la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires y Provincia de Buenos Aires. El 92,6% tenía estudios superiores. El 88,9% manifestó experimentar algún nivel de dolor durante el SAR, siendo grave en el 5,5% de los casos. En el análisis bivariado se identificaron como variables asociadas al desarrollo de dolor: "edad", "edad de inicio de las relaciones sexuales en general", "miedo a sufrir dolor", "fisting" y "miedo al ensuciamiento". En el modelo multivariado surgieron como potenciales factores de riesgo, "edad de salida del placard", "miedo a sufrir dolor" y "uso de poppers". Como posibles factores protectores, "fisting", "edad al momento del estudio" y "edad de inicio de relaciones con otros hombres". Conclusiones: Este estudio se focalizó en la anodispareunia experimentada específicamente por el colectivo homosexual masculino en Argentina. El 88,8% experimentó algún nivel de dolor, siendo grave en el 5,5%. Como en otros estudios, en éste se identificaron posibles factores predisponentes, algunos modificables y otros no. Un mayor conocimiento de los potenciales factores influyentes permitirá un mejor asesoramiento de los profesionales sanitarios a la población afectada sobre prevención del dolor en particular y sobre el erotismo anal en general. (AU)

Introduction: The perianal region is very rich in sensory nerve endings, which determines that anal erotism is frequent, regardless of sexual identity and sexual orientation. Despite this, the impact of receptive anal sex (RAS) on anal health has been little studied. Some people experience pain during anoreceptive sex. The objectives of this study were to evaluate its prevalence in a sample of men who have sex with men (MSM) resident in Argentina and identify potential factors associated with its appearance.Design: Descriptive, transversal study.Population and method: A voluntary and anonymous survey was designed. It included demographic variables and factors related to RAS. It was answered on the Internet between March 2015 and February 2016. MSM over 18 years of age resident in Argentina, who had practiced RAS during the last four weeks, were included. Bivariate and multivariate statistical analyzes were performed in logistic regression models.Results: Two hundred and eight MSM answered the survey. One hundred and thirty-five (64.9%) who had maintained RAS in the last four weeks were selected for the analysis. 76.3% belonged to the Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires and the Buenos Aires Province. 92.6% had higher education. 88.9% reported that they experienced some level of pain during RAS, being severe in 5.5% of cases. In the bivariate analysis were identified as variables associated with the development of pain: "age", "age of onset of sexual relations in general", "fear of suffering pain", "fisting" and "fear of getting dirty". In the multivariate model, the "age of coming out", the "fear of suffering pain" and the "use of poppers" appeared as possible risk factors. As possible protective factors, "fisting", "outing age", "age" and "age when starting relationships with other men". Conclusions: This study focused on the anodyspareunia experienced specifically by the male homosexual group in Argentina. 88.9% experienced some level of pain, being severe in 5.5%. As in other studies, possible predisposing factors have been identified in this one; some modifiable and others not. A greater knowledge of the potential influential factors will allow a better advice of health professionals to the affected population on pain prevention and on anal erotism in general. (AU)

Disfunções dos músculos do assoalho pélvico em mulheres que realizam o exame preventivo de câncer de colo de útero / Pelvic floor dysfunctions in women undergoing cervical cancer screening

Introdução: As disfunções dos músculos do assoalho pélvico (DMAP) ocorrem devido a alterações das estruturas da região pélvica. A identificação de sintomas no exame preventivo de câncer de colo de útero é importante para aprimorar políticas públicas de atenção à saúde da mulher. Objetivo: Analisar a prevalência de DMAP em mulheres que realizam exame preventivo de câncer de colo de útero. Métodos: Tratou-se de um estudo transversal cuja população foi composta por 64 mulheres adultas. Os instrumentos de pesquisa utilizados foram ficha de identificação de DMAP e ficha de identificação de fatores associados as DMAP. Resultados: Constipação (40,6%), incontinência urinária (IU) (39,1%) e dispareunia (23,4%) foram as mais prevalentes, com 39,1% das mulheres apresentando sintomas de uma única disfunção, 21,9% duas disfunções e 9,4% associação de três disfunções, 44% das mulheres com IU também apresentam constipação e 28% com IU apresentavam dispareunia. Nenhum fator demonstrou associação à constipação, IU demonstrou uma tendência à associação ao consumo de cafeína e dispareunia ao uso de medicamentos Inibidores da Enzima Conversora de Angiotensina. Conclusão: Observou-se maior prevalência de constipação, IU e dispareunia destacando-se a sobreposição de sintomas, enfatizando a importância da detecção precoce das DMAP ainda na atenção primária. (AU)

Introduction: Pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFD) occur due to changes in the structures of the pelvic region. The identification of symptoms in the cervical cancer screening is important to improve public health care for women. Objective: To analyze the prevalence of PFD in women who undergo cervical cancer screening test. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study whose population was composed of 64 adult women. The research instruments used were a PFD identification form and a PFD identification card. Results: Constipation (40.6%), Urinary Incontinence (UI) (39.1%) and dyspareunia (23.4%) were the most prevalent, with 39.1% of the women presenting with a single dysfunction, 21.9% two dysfunctions and a 9.4% association of three dysfunctions, 44% of women with UI also presented constipation and 28% with UI had dyspareunia. No factor was associated with constipation, UI showed a trend to association with caffeine consumption and dyspareunia with the use of ACE inhibitors. Conclusion: A higher prevalence of constipation, UI and dyspareunia was observed, with overlapping of symptoms, emphasizing the importance of the early detection of PFD still in the primary care, for the prevention and treatment of these symptoms. (AU)

Estimulação nervosa elétrica transcutânea (TENS) no tratamento da vulvodínia localizada provocada: revisão sistemática / Transcutaneous nervous electric stimulation (TENS) in the treatment of localized provoked vulvodynia: systematic review

Objetivo: Verificar a eficácia da TENS no tratamento de mulheres com vulvodínia localizada provocada. Métodos: Buscou-se, nas bases de dados SciELO, PEDro e PubMed, por estudos que utilizaram a TENS como tratamento da vulvodínia localizada provocada. Resultados: Dos 50 artigos recuperados, três foram analisados: dois ECRs e um estudo de coorte longitudinal não controlado. Conclusão: A TENS pode ser eficaz como uma opção de tratamento na melhora da dor vulvar, sendo uma opção de baixo custo, não invasivo e de fácil manejo; assim como outras terapias combinadas, parece ter um efeito positivo e benéfico no tratamento da vulvodínia localizada provocada. (AU)

Objective: To verify the efficacy of TENS in the treatment of women with localized provoked vulvodynia. Methods: Searched the databases SciELO, PEDro, PubMed, for studies that used TENS as a treatment of localized vulvodynia. Results: Of the 50 articles retrieved, 3 articles were analyzed: 2 RCTs, 1 uncontrolled longitudinal cohort study. Conclusion: The TENS can be effective as a treatment option in improving vulvar pain and is a low-cost, non-invasive and easy to use option, as well as other combined therapies, which appears to have a positive and beneficial effect in the treatment of localized provoked vulvodynia.(AU)

Manejo laparoscópico multidisciplinario de la endometriosis profunda del 2010 al 2017: estudio de cohorte retrospectivo / Multidisciplinary laparoscopic management of deep infiltrating endometriosis from 2010 to 2017: A retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCCIÓN La laparoscopía es actualmente el estándar en el manejo de la endometriosis profunda. Sin embargo, requiere de un entrenamiento específico e involucra la realización de procedimientos complejos y asociados a una alta tasa de complicaciones. Por lo anterior en Chile y Latinoamérica, la endometriosis profunda es frecuentemente manejada de manera inadecuada. OBJETIVO Describir nuestra experiencia en el enfrentamiento clínico y manejo quirúrgico laparoscópico de la endometriosis profunda, durante los últimos siete años. MÉTODOS Estudio de cohorte retrospectivo de 137 pacientes consecutivas operadas y con confirmación histológica de endometriosis profunda. Se recolectaron los datos demográficos, datos quirúrgicos, complicaciones, resultados reproductivos y seguimiento. RESULTADOS Todas las cirugías fueron completadas por laparoscopía, sin conversión. La dismenorrea y la dispareunia fueron los síntomas más frecuentes en 85,4 y 56,9%, respectivamente. La localización más frecuente de endometriosis profunda fueron los ligamentos úterosacros, coexistiendo un endometrioma en 48,9% de los casos. La mediana de tiempo operatorio fue de 140 minutos, siendo significativamente más prolongado en casos con compromiso intestinal (p < 0,0001). Quince pacientes (10,9%) presentaron complicaciones. El seguimiento medio fue de 24,5 meses. La tasa de embarazo fue de 58,1% y 90% de las pacientes reportó una mejoría significativa de su sintomatología. CONCLUSIONES El manejo laparoscópico de la endometriosis profunda es efectivo y seguro, pero debe reservarse a centros especializados y con disponibilidad de equipo multidisciplinario.

BACKGROUND Laparoscopy has become the standard of care in the surgical management of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). However, it is a challenging procedure with a high complication rate. Despite the benefits of the minimally invasive approach, DIE resection is often performed by surgeons without adequate training, especially in developing countries like Chile. OBJECTIVE To asses our experience in the diagnosis and laparoscopic management of DIE during seven years. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of data including 137 patients with pathology-proven DIE. Surgical and fertility outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS All procedures were performed laparoscopically without conversion. Dysmenorrhea and dyspareunia were the most common symptoms in 85.4% and 56.9%, respectively. Uterosacral ligaments were the most common DIE location. Endometrioma was present in 48.9% of cases. Median operative time was 140 minutes; however, it was longer in cases requiring bowel surgery (p < 0.0001). The complication rate was 10.9%. Median follow-up was 24.5 months. The pregnancy rate was 58.1% and 90% of patients reported significant symptom relief after surgery. CONCLUSION Laparoscopic surgical management of DIE is effective and safe but it must be performed in tertiary centers with the availability of multidisciplinary teams.

Revisión narrativa de la evidencia actual acerca de las alternativas hormonales y no hormonales en el manejo de los síntomas vasomotores y urogenitales de la menopausia / Narrative Review of Current Evidence Regarding Hormonal and Non-Hormonal Therapeutic Options for Vasomotor and Genitourinary Menopause Symptoms

La menopausia es el periodo de transición en que la mujer culmina su edad reproductiva y trae consigo cambios anatómicos y fisiológicos, manifestados principalmente por síntomas vasomotores y urogenitales, con gran afectación de la calidad de vida de las pacientes. Es de gran importancia conocer las alternativas terapéuticas que existen, la evidencia que las respalda, y así ofrecer la mejor alternativa según indicaciones, eficacia, perfil de efectos adversos y contraindicaciones de cada una. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda y selección de la literatura en las bases de datos Cochrane, Pubmed, SciELO, JAMA, en idiomas español e inglés, sin restricción de fecha. Conclusiones: Las terapias actuales no son satisfactorias, bien sea por la baja eficacia en el control de los síntomas o por su asociación con efectos adversos de importancia. Es necesario evaluar acuciosamente el riesgo-beneficio de cada intervención.

Menopause is the transitioning phase of a woman at the end of her reproductive age and which is associated with both anatomical and physiological changes, with great compromise of quality' of Iife. It is of upmost importance to be aware of the currently available therapeutic options, the evidence that supports them, and thus, be able to provide the best alternative according to medical indications, efficacy, adverse effects and counter-indications. Methods: We conducted a search on the databases Cochrane, Pubmed, SciELO, JAMA, both in English and Spanish, without date restrictions. Conclusión: Current therapies are not satisfactory, either because of their low efficacy in symptom control or because of the associated risks. It is necessary to make a thorough evaluation of the benefit/risk relation for every individualized case.

Zinc-containing Vaginal Moisturizer Gel Improves Postmenopausal Vulvovaginal Symptoms: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES: Although vaginal estrogen is highly effective in alleviating genitourinary symptoms of menopause (GSM), some women are reluctant to use hormonal treatment. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of a zinc-containing vaginal moisturizer gel on GSM. METHODS: Women with GSM were enrolled. Patients were asked to use the vaginal gel daily for 2 weeks. Vaginal Health Index (VHI) was calculated. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was obtained on vaginal pain, dryness, burning, itching, dyspareunia and dysuria before and 2 weeks after the completion of treatment. Vaginal cytology was obtained. Vulvovaginal symptom questionnaire (VSQ-21) was used to assess subjective symptoms. RESULTS: Thirty-seven women with GSM participated in the study. The VHI improved significantly (mean ± standard deviation, 13 ± 4 before vs. 17 ± 4 after treatment, P < 0.01). The patient reported VAS combined score was significantly lower after the treatment (18 ± 14 before vs. 7 ± 12 after treatment, P < 0.01). The largest improvement occurred in vaginal dryness. The maturation value did not change significantly. There were no signs of inflammation on vaginal cytology. VSQ-21 combined scores also improved significantly (7.9 ± 5.5 before vs. 2.7 ± 3.6 after the intervention, P < 0.01). Side effects were rare and minor. CONCLUSIONS: Novel zinc-containing vaginal moisturizer gel significantly improves postmenopausal vulvovaginal symptoms without serious side effects.

Gracilis pull-through flap for the repair of a recalcitrant recto-vaginal fistula

Recto-vaginal fistulas are difficult to treat due to their high recurrence rate. Currently, no single surgical intervention is universally regarded as the best treatment option for rectovaginal fistulas. We present a case of recurrent recto-vaginal fistula surgically treated with a gracilis pull-through flap. The surgical goals in this patient were complete excision of the recto-vaginal fistula and introduction of fresh, vascularized muscle to seal the fistula. A defunctioning colostomy was performed 1 month prior to the present procedure. The gracilis muscle and tendon were mobilized, pulled through the freshened recto-vaginal fistula, passed through the anus, and anchored externally. Excess muscle and tendon were trimmed 1 week after the procedure. Follow-up at 4 weeks demonstrated complete mucosal coverage over an intact gracilis muscle, and no leakage. At 8 weeks post-procedure, the patient resumed sexual intercourse with no dyspareunia. At 6 months post-procedure, her stoma was closed. The patient reported transient fecal staining of her vagina after stoma reversal, which resolved with conservative treatment. The fistula had not recurred at 20 months post-procedure. The gracilis pull-through flap is a reliable technique for a scarred vagina with an attenuated rectovaginal septum. It can function as a well-vascularized tissue plug to promote healing.

Uterine Leiomyoma Is Associated with Female Sexual Dysfunction in Postmenopausal Women

PURPOSE: To determine the relationship between uterine leiomyoma and female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among premenopausal and postmenopausal women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study population consisted of consecutive women who underwent gynecologic screening tests, including transvaginal ultrasound, and completed the questionnaires on FSD. A total of 841 women were included from January 2010 to December 2011. FSD was defined as Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) ≤26.55. The relationship between uterine leiomyoma and FSD were compared according to menopausal status. RESULTS: In premenopausal group (n=564), there were no differences in the frequency of FSD (55.0% vs. 58.8%, p=0.387) and total FSFI score. However, in postmenopausal group (n=277), women with uterine leiomyoma had a lower frequency of FSD than those without uterine leiomyoma (71.3% vs. 86.4%, p=0.003). This relationship between uterine leiomyoma and lower frequency of FSD in postmenopausal women remained significant after adjusting for confounding variables. CONCLUSION: The relationship between uterine leiomyoma and FSD is different depending on the menopausal status.