Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Pelvic Floor Muscle Training in Women: protocol for a controlled, randomized, double-blind clinical trial / Efectos de la estimulación transcraneal por corriente directa y del entrenamiento muscular del suelo pélvico en mujeres: protocolo de un ensayo clínico controlado, aleatorizado y doble ciego / Efeitos da estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua e treinamento muscular do assoalho pélvico em mulheres: protocolo para um ensaio clínico controlado, randomizado e duplo-cego

ABSTRACT Pelvic floor muscle weakness can lead to urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual dysfunction. Although it can be minimized by pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), its effects are not lasting. Therefore, using combination therapy seems promising. This study aims to evaluate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with PFMT on intravaginal pressure, pelvic floor muscle strength (PFMS), sexual function (SF), and quality of life (QoL) in healthy women. A total of 32 women, aged from 18 to 45 years, will undergo PFMT (with perineal contractions and relaxation) with the aid of pressure biofeedback associated with active tDCS or sham tDCS. Sessions will last 20 minutes, three times per week, for four weeks, totaling 12 sessions. During the protocol, participants will be instructed to also perform the home-based PFMT daily. The tDCS anodal electrode will be positioned over the supplementary motor area of the dominant cortical hemisphere, whereas the cathodal will be over the contralateral supraorbital region, with a 2mA intensity for 20 minutes. Intravaginal pressure (pressure gauge), PFM strength (measured by digital palpation and the PERFECT scheme), FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index), and QoL (SF-36 questionnaire) will be evaluated before and after the 12 sessions and after a 30-day follow-up.

RESUMEN La debilidad de la musculatura del suelo pélvico puede provocar incontinencia urinaria, prolapso de órganos pélvicos y disfunción sexual, y puede minimizarse mediante el entrenamiento de la musculatura del suelo pélvico (EMSP). Sin embargo, este efecto no es duradero. En este contexto, una terapia combinada puede ser prometedora para mejorar la situación. Este estudio tiene por objetivo evaluar el efecto de la estimulación transcraneal por corriente directa (ETCC) combinada con EMSP sobre la presión intravaginal, la fuerza muscular del suelo pélvico (FMSP), la función sexual (FS) y la calidad de vida (CV) en mujeres sanas. Participarán 32 mujeres, de entre 18 y 45 años, que se someterán a EMSP (contracciones y relajación del perineo) y a Biofeedback asociado a ETCC activa o ETCC sham durante 20 minutos, tres veces por semana, durante 4 semanas, con un total de 12 sesiones. Durante el protocolo, las participantes también se someterán diariamente a EMSP en casa. El electrodo anodal de la ETCC se colocará sobre el área motora suplementaria del hemisferio cortical dominante, y el electrodo catodal sobre la región supraorbital contralateral, a una intensidad de 2 mA, durante 20 minutos. Se evaluarán la presión intravaginal (manómetro), la FMSP (palpación digital, esquema Perfect), la FS (Índice de Función Sexual Femenina) y la CV (cuestionario SF-36) antes y después de las 12 sesiones, así como tras un seguimiento de 30 días.

RESUMO A fraqueza muscular do assoalho pélvico pode gerar incontinência urinária, prolapso de órgãos pélvicos e disfunção sexual, e pode ser minimizada pelo treinamento muscular do assoalho pélvico (TMAP). No entanto, este efeito não é duradouro. Assim, terapia combinada parece ser promissora para a melhora deste quadro. Dessa forma, objetiva-se avaliar o efeito da estimulação transcraniana por corrente contínua (ETCC), combinada ao TMAP, sobre a pressão intravaginal, força muscular do assoalho pélvico (FMAP), função sexual (FS) e qualidade de vida (QV) em mulheres saudáveis. Serão 32 mulheres, entre 18 e 45 anos, que realizaram TMAP (contrações e relaxamento do períneo) e Biofeedback associados a ETCC ativa ou ETCC sham por 20 minutos, três vezes por semana, por 4 semanas, totalizando 12 sessões. Durante o protocolo, as participantes também realizarão diariamente, em domicílio, o TMAP. O eletrodo anodal da ETCC será posicionado sobre a área motora suplementar do hemisfério cortical dominante, e o catodal sobre a região supraorbital contralateral, com intensidade de 2mA, por 20 minutos. A pressão intravaginal (manômetro de pressão), FMAP (palpação digital, esquema Perfect), FS (Índice de Função Sexual Feminina) e QV (questionário SF-36) foram avaliadas antes e depois das 12 sessões, bem como após acompanhamento de 30 dias.

EVALUATION OF FEMALE SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION IN THE DIABETIC WOMEN IN A TERTIARY CARE MEDICAL COLLEGE AND HOSPITAL IN EASTERN INDIA

Background: In women, the evidences regarding the association between diabetes and sexual dysfunction are less conclusive as compared to males. Diabetes-induced vascular and nerve dysfunctions may impair the sexual response by producing structural and functional changes in the female genitalia. The present study is significant in this regard that it has been conducted among individuals hailing from urban, suburban and rural areas of the state of West Bengal making questionnaires in vernacular languages to reach maximum number of individuals possible. The data obtained was analysed statistically to derive conclusions. In this cross- Methods: sectional 100 female patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending the diabetes clinic in Endocrine OPD of Medical College and Hospital Kolkata were screened and included as the study population. Sexual dysfunctions in women was measured here using the standard questionnaire and the FSFI score <24 was taken as the criteria for accepting the presence of sexual dysfunction. The FSD score was compared against parameters like age, duration of diabetes, Body mass index (BMI), blood sugar (glycemic status) fasting and post-prandial , diabetes-related complications and addiction and prevalence was calculated. Prevalence of se Results : xual dysfunction in the study population is 51% showing association between diabetes and female sexual dysfunction.The prevalence of FSD was found to be maximum (75%) in the age group 41- 50years. Strong association of FSD with age is found as p-value is 0.002. the prevalence of FSD was maximum (92.31%) in the participants whose Duration of diabetes more than equal to 11 years. Very Strong association of FSD with Duration of diabetes is found as p-value < 0.001. The prevalence of FSD was found to be maximum (94.74%) in the group (19% of the study population) who are on insulin. Extremely strong association of FSD with insulin usage is found as p-value is 0.000. The prevalence of FSD was found to be maximum (71.43%) in the group (42% of the study population) who do not have controlled ppbg (>180 mg/dl). Quite strong association of FSD with ppbg control is found as p-value is 0.001. The prevalence of FSD was found to be maximum (72.5%) in the participants who were overweight.11% of the population is obese and in them prevalence of FSD is 63.64. Very strong association of FSD with BMI of the participant is found as p-value is 0.000.Major association of FSD was seen absent with addiction, OHA intake, micro and macrovascular compications in the patients. Of all the six domains evaluated to reach FSFI score, majority of the patients had decreased desire. Prevalence Conclusion: of sexual dysfunction in the study population is 51%. Longer duration of diabetes, inadequate diabetes control, insulin intake, obesity (higher BMI) and higher age of the participant has a role to play in the development of FSD as per this study. The ability to diagnose and treat FSD in unsuspecting diabetics will result in long term improvement in quality of life

Relationship Involving Sexual Function, Distress Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, and Female Genital Self-Image / Relação entre função sexual, incômodo dos sintomas de disfunção do assoalho pélvico e autoimagem genital feminina

Abstract Objective To assess the relationship involving sexual function (SF), the distress symptoms caused by pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD), and female genital self-image (GSI). Materials and Methods We assessed the GSI, SF and PFD distress symptoms by the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS), the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) respectively. Data were analyzed by multiple linear regression. Results Among the 216 women (age: 50.92 ± 16.31 years) who participated in the study, 114 were sexually active in the previous 4 weeks. In the total sample (p < 0.001; adjusted R2 = 0.097) and among sexually active women (p = 0.010; adjusted R2 = 0.162), the distress symptoms caused by pelvic organ prolapse (POP) were related to the GSI. Among sexually active women, sexual desire also was related to the GSI (p < 0.001; adjusted R2 = 0.126). Conclusion The findings of the present study provide additional knowledge about female GSI and suggest that SF and POP distress symptoms should be investigated together with the GSI in the clinical practice.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar a relação entre a função sexual (FS), o incômodo provocado pelos sintomas de disfunção do assoalho pélvico (DAP) e a autoimagem genital (AIG) feminina. Materiais e Métodos A AIG, a FS e incômodo causado pelos sintomas de DAP foram avaliados pela Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS), pelo Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) e pelo Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20), respectivamente. Os dados foram analisados por regressão linear múltipla. Resultados Das 216 mulheres (idade: 50,92 ± 16,31 anos) que participaram do estudo, 114 eram sexualmente ativas nas últimas 4 semanas. Na amostra total (p < 0,001; R2 ajustado = 0,097) e entre as mulheres sexualmente ativas (p = 0,010; R2 ajustado = 0,162), o incômodo provocado pelos sintomas de prolapso de órgãos pélvicos (POP) relacionou-se à AIG. Entre as mulheres sexualmente ativas, o desejo sexual também se relacionou à AIG (p < 0,001; R2 ajustado = 0,126). Conclusão Os achados deste estudo fornecem conhecimento adicional sobre a AIG feminina e sugerem que a FS e o incômodo causado pelos sintomas de POP devem ser investigados juntamente com a AIG na prática clínica.

Transvesical robot-assisted radical prostatectomy: a report of 13 cases / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To share the technical key points and experience of transvesical robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (TvRARP). 【Methods】 The clinical data of 13 patients with prostate cancer (PCa) receiving TvRARP during Nov.2021 and May 2022 were collected. The operation time, estimated blood loss, blood transfusion rate, catheter removal time, postoperative length of hospital stay, immediate urinary continence rate, postoperative IIEF-5 score and perioperative complications were evaluated. 【Results】 The operation time was (142±39) min, estimated intraoperative blood loss was (76±40) mL, and no transfusion was needed. The median postoperative IIEF-5 score was 16 (12-22), hospital stay 3 (2-5)days, and catheter removal time 7(5-14)days. Of all 13 patients, 12(92.3%) achieved immediate urinary continence at the removal of catheter. There were no postoperative complications of Clavien Ⅲ and above. Clavien Ⅰ-Ⅱ complications were observed in 4 patients (30.8%). 【Conclusion】 TvRARP is feasible and safe for selected patients with clinically localized PCa, which can ensure promising postoperative urinary continence and preserve erectile functional.

Factors affecting penile appearance and erectile function for postoperative hypospadias patients in adulthood: a long-term follow-up observational study / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the penile appearance, sexual function, psychological status and related influencing factors of adult patients who underwent hypospadias repair surgery in their minors, so as to provide reference for the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of hypospadias. 【Methods】 This study included 50 adult hypospadias patients who underwent urethroplasty in our hospital during May 2005 and Aug. 2018. The present appearance, sexual function and psychological status were evaluated. The correlation and consistency between hypospadias objective scoring evaluation (HOSE) and pediatric penile perception score (PPPS) were analyzed. Factors affecting the results were determined with univariate and multivariate regression analysis. 【Results】 The satisfaction rate of HOSE was significantly correlated with the urethral length and complications (P=0.024, P=0.033). The satisfaction rate of PPPS was significantly correlated with the number of urethral operations and postoperative complications (P=0.041, P=0.023). There was a weak correlation between HOSE and PPPS (r=0.291, P=0.040), but almost no consistency (Kappa=0.2, P=0.107). Sixty percent of the patients paid attention to the ventral appearance of penis, whose dissatisfaction rate of PPPS was higher than those who did not pay attention to the ventral appearance of the penis (19/30 vs. 6/20, P=0.021). Patients with multiple operations (>1), postoperative complications or unsatisfactory penile appearance were more likely to have inferiority complex (52.6% vs. 22.6%, P=0.029; 59.1% vs.14.3%, P=0.001;61.5% vs. 24.3%, P=0.015). Multivariate regression analysis showed that dissatisfaction with the appearance of the penis was an independent risk factor for patients’ perception of their own physical defects. Among the patients who believed that they had physical defects, the percentage of patients with grade IV penile erectile hardness was significantly lower than that of those who denied they had physical defects (9/17 vs. 27/33, P=0.047). 【Conclusion】 The undesirable postoperative penis appearance is likely to have a negative impact on patients’ long-term psychological state, which might further damage the sexual function in adulthood. Surgeons should pay attention to the penile appearance during the conduction of hypospadias repair.

Sexual function-preserving 450 nm blue laser vaporization in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia: a report of 20 cases / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To explore the effects of sexual function-preserving 450 nm blue laser vaporization of the prostate on the postoperative sexual function of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and to evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety and feasibility of this procedure. 【Methods】 The clinical data of 20 BPH patients treated in our department during Jan. and Mar.2023 were analyzed. The International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Quality of Life Scale (QoL) score, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), residual urine volume (PVR) and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) data were compared before and after the operation. The operation time, postoperative catheter indwelling time, and hospital stay were recorded. The ejaculation status 2 months after operation was followed up. 【Results】 All 20 patients completed the operation successfully. The operation time was (13.41±4.30) min, catheter indwelling time (1.2±0.4) d, and hospital stay (3.0±0.6) d. The IPSS, QoL, PVR and Qmax data 1 month after operation were significantly improved compared with those before operation (P0.05). 【Conclusion】 The modified 450 nm blue laser vaporization of the prostate can improve the urination symptoms of BPH patients while retaining sexual function. It is a safe and feasible technique for BPH patients who have sexual needs, and provides an alternative surgical approach for those looking to preserve sexual function.

Efficacy of modified prostate tip separation technique combined with laparoscopic radical prostatectomy based on propensity score matching / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To explore the efficacy of modified prostate tip separation technique combined with laparoscopic radical prostatectomy based on propensity score matching (PSM) in the treatment of prostate cancer. 【Methods】 A total of 74 prostate cancer patients treated during Jan.2019 and Dec.2022 with modified prostate tip separation technique combined with laparoscopic radical prostatectomy were included in the combined group, and another 63 prostate cancer patients treated during the same period with laparoscopic radical prostatectomy were selected as the control group. Altogether 58 pairs of patients were matched with PSM. The perioperative indicators, incidence of complications, urinary control function and sexual function before and one month after surgery between the two groups after matching were compared. 【Results】 There were no statistically significant differences in general data between the two groups (P>0.05). One month after operation, the scores of the International Urinary Incontinence Questionnaire (ICIQ-SF) and International Erectile Function Questionnaire (IIEF-5) in both groups decreased, while the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC-UIN) and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) in both groups increased (P<0.05). The scores of ICIQ-SF [(9.02±1.98) vs. (11.38±2.04)] and IPSS [(19.67±4.19) vs. (21.68±4.23)] were lower in the combined group than in the control group (P<0.05), while the scores of EPIC-UIN [(70.49±6.82) vs. (63.34±6.48)] and IIEF-5 [(18.17±1.73) vs. (16.72±1.58)] were higher in the combined group than in the control group (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the combined group had shorter catheter retention time [(7.38±1.97) d vs. (5.11±1.82) d] and hospital stay [(13.18±2.23) d vs. (11.74±2.09) d], lower incidence of complications (22.41% vs. 6.90%), and higher positive rate of incision margin (8.62% vs. 20.69%) (P<0.05). 【Conclusion】 PSM can balance the differences between groups. The modified prostate tip separation technique combined with laparoscopic radical prostatectomy can improve the urinary control function, have little impact on sexual function, and cause fewer postoperative complications. However, the risk of positive incision margin is high, and further modification is needed to achieve the best therapeutic effects.

Comparison of the efficacy of transurethral columnar balloon dilation of prostate and transurethral bipolar plasmakinetic resection of prostate in the treatment of small volume (≤30 mL) benign prostatic hyperplasia / 现代泌尿外科杂志

【Objective】 To explore the efficacy of transurethral columnar balloon dilation of prostate (TUCBDP) and transurethral bipolar plasmakinetic resection of prostate (TUPKP) for patients with small volume (≤30 mL) benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and the effects on urinary control and sexual function. 【Methods】 Clinical data of BPH patients who underwent surgical treatment during Jun.2021 and Jan.2022 were reviewed. A total of 95 patients with prostate volume ≤30 mL and regular sexual life were selected as subjects, including 45 patients who received TUCBDP as the TUCBDP group and 50 patients who received TUPKP as the TUPKP group. The patients were followed up for 12 months, and the perioperative data and follow-up results were analyzed. 【Results】 The TUCBDP group had shorter operation time, less intraoperative blood loss, less postoperative hemoglobin loss and sodium concentration loss, shorter bladder irrigation time, lower pain score, shorter urinary tube indwelling time and shorter hospital stay than the TUPKP group (P0.05). The TUPKP group had worse ejaculation function score and ejaculation disturbance score after surgery (P0.05), and the two indexes were superior in the TUCBDP group than in the TUPKP group. The TUCBDP group had significantly lower complication rate than the TUPKP group (P<0.05). 【Conclusion】 TUCBDP is safe and effective in the treatment of small volume (≤30 mL) BPH, less trauma, less biochemical interference, less pain, fewer complications, and shorter course of disease. It has little effect on the ejaculation function and erectile function, and is more suitable for patients requiring retention of sexual function. It has a good application prospect in the treatment of small volume BPH.

Incidence rate and protection strategy of sexual dysfunction after minimally invasive surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia / 现代泌尿外科杂志

In recent years, minimally invasive surgery has been rapidly developed and has become the first choice for the treatment of moderate to severe benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Although it can significantly improve the lower urinary tract symptoms, reduce complications, and enhance security, postoperative sexual dysfunction(SD) is still common, which affects the patients’ quality of life. In this paper, we discuss the incidence rate of SD after BPH surgery, the protection strategy of sexual function, and how to choose reasonable treatment from the perspective of sexual function protection.

La función sexual y su relación con los factores psicológicos en las mujeres con el síndrome de ovario poliquístico / Sexual function and its relationship to psychological factors in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Introducción: El síndrome de ovario poliquístico tiene un notable impacto en la vida de las personas que lo padecen, siendo las áreas psicológica y sexual frecuentemente afectadas. Objetivos: Realizar una revisión bibliográfica sobre la función sexual y su relación con factores psicológicos en mujeres con síndrome de ovario poliquístico. Métodos: Se revisaron las bases de datos Google Scholar, Pubmed Central y SciELO Regional por intermedio del buscador web de Google. Algunos de los aspectos tratados en el artículo fueron los factores psicológicos, las hormonas sexuales y la función sexual, la imagen corporal y el síndrome de ovario poliquístico, y la función sexual y el síndrome de ovario poliquístico. Conclusiones: Los aspectos más estudiados del síndrome de ovario poliquístico han estado relacionados con la conceptualización y fisiopatología de la enfermedad, y las manifestaciones reproductivas y metabólicas. Otros aspectos igualmente importantes como los psicosociales y sexuales han sido muy escasamente abordados y los datos disponibles son contradictorios. Se requieren investigaciones de corte psicosocial para profundizar en las particularidades de la vida psicoemocional y sexual de esta población. Aún existe un campo novedoso poco explorado y permanecen vacíos de información en torno a la sexualidad que por su impacto influyen en el bienestar psicológico y la calidad de vida(AU)

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome has a notable impact on the lives of those who suffer from it, with the psychological and sexual areas frequently affected. Objective: To carry out a literature review on sexual function and its relationship with psychological factors in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Methods: Google Scholar, Pubmed Central and SciELO Regional databases were reviewed through the Google web search engine. Some of the aspects covered in the article were psychological factors, sex hormones and sexual function, body image and polycystic ovary syndrome, and sexual function and polycystic ovary syndrome. Conclusions: The reviewed literature allows affirming that in the Cuban and international context the most studied aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome have been related to the conceptualization and physiopathology of the disease, and its reproductive and metabolic manifestations. Other equally important aspects such as psychosocial and sexual aspects have been very scarcely broached and the available information is contradictory. Psychosocial research is needed to delve deeper into the particularities of the psychoemotional and sexual life of this population. There is still a novel field that has not been sufficiently explored and there are still gaps in the information on sexuality that, due to their impact, influence the psychological well-being and the patients' quality of life(AU)

COVID-19: the unmet need for family planning and its effects on sexuality: a cross-sectional study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to examine the effect of women's unmet family planning needs on their sexual functions during the COVID-19 pandemic period. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 319 women of childbearing age across Turkey between April and May 2021. Data were obtained through online questionnaires using the "Survey Form" and the Female Sexual Functıon Index. RESULTS: It was observed that 46.77% of the participants had difficulty in accessing the family planning method, the most used family planning method during the pandemic period was the withdrawal method with 52.35%, and there was a significant difference between them and the pre-pandemic method (p<0.05). In the regression analysis, it was shown that a one-unit increase in the difficulty of accessing the family planning method and the place reached parameter would lead to an increase of 0.33 points in the sexual function probability of women. CONCLUSIONS: It was observed that women of childbearing age living in Turkey had limited access to family planning services during the pandemic, those who used modern methods before the pandemic had to prefer the traditional method, and the sexual functions of women who had fear of becoming pregnant were adversely affected.

The effect of systemic lupus erythematosus on sexual function in women: an updated meta-analysis based on cross-sectional studies

Abstract Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a chronic systemic autoimmune disease, often affects different organs and tissues. It can be effectively managed using drugs; however, attention should be paid to the patient's quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of SLE on female sexual function based on current literature. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for eligible studies published up to November 9, 2021. This review included all English studies that compared the sexual function between women with SLE and healthy women. A meta-analysis was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Results: A total of 367 records were retrieved from 3 electronic databases. Five studies that involved 710 women with SLE and 2059 healthy women were finally included in this meta-analysis. The result indicated a significant decrease (mean difference =−1.74, 95% confidence interval −3.14 to −0.34, p =0.02) in the total scores of the Female Sexual Function Index in women with SLE, implying that healthy women had better sexual function than those with SLE. Conclusion: The results of our study indicated that SLE could negatively affect the quality of sexual life in terms of desire, arousal, and pain. Thus, close attention should be paid to the sexual function of women with SLE. Trial registration: This study was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration number: CRD42021290439).

Effects of modified radical prostatectomy via an extraperitoneal approach on urinary control and sexual function in patients with prostate cancer / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the effects of modified radical prostatectomy via an extraperitoneal approach on urinary control and sexual function in patients with prostate cancer.Methods:Fifty-six patients with stable prostate cancer who received treatment in Deqing People's Hospital between March 2015 and March 2018 were included in this study. They were randomly divided into observation and control groups ( n = 28/group). The observation group was subjected to modified radical prostatectomy via an extraperitoneal approach. The control group underwent standard laparoscopic surgery. Clinical efficacy and the effects of modified radical prostatectomy via an extraperitoneal approach on urinary control and sexual function were compared between the two groups. Results:Amount of blood loss and postoperative drainage were (125.39 ± 11.12) mL and (65.39 ± 10.12) mL in the observation group, and (224.79 ± 14.01) mL and (104.79 ± 15.01) mL in the control group. There were no significant differences in amount of blood loss and postoperative drainage between the two groups ( t = 18.83, 15.67, both P < 0.05). At 1, 3 and 6 months after surgery, the percentage of patients who had urinary control recovery in the observation group was 53.57% (15/28), 78.57% (22/28), 98.21% (27/28), respectively, which were significantly higher than those in the control group [21.43% (6/28), 35.71% (10/28), 67.86% (19/28), χ2 = 4.12, 7.21, 5.01, all P < 0.05]. At 1, 3 and 6 months after surgery, the score of erectile function recovery in the observation group was (15.98 ± 0.28) points, (15.99 ± 0.72) points, and (18.91 ± 0.48) points, which were significantly higher than those in the control group [(17.11 ± 0.34) points, (13.11 ± 0.48) points, (13.41 ± 0.39) points, t = 3.01, 12.89, 15.78, all P < 0.05]. Conclusion:Modified radical prostatectomy via an extraperitoneal approach can improve postoperative urinary control and sexual dysfunction.

Disfunción sexual en cáncer de mama: Efecto colateral / Sexual dysfunction in breast cancer: A side effect

Introducción: La disfunción sexual femenina (DSF) incluye un grupo de alteraciones en el deseo sexual, excitación, lubricación, satisfacción, orgasmo, y dispareunia, de carácter multifactorial, involucrando tanto procesos orgánicos y psicológicos como socioculturales. Los diversos tratamientos médico-quirúrgicos, tienen impacto en la función sexual. La disfunción sexual femenina afecta la calidad de vida, con una prevalencia de hasta 45-90% en las pacientes con diagnóstico de cáncer de mama. Objetivo: Evaluar la función sexual en mujeres con cáncer de mama, con seguimiento oncológico mayor al año, evaluando el impacto de los diferentes tratamientos médico-quirúrgicos en el índice de función sexual femenina. Material y método: Estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal, donde se incluyeron 102 pacientes entre agosto 2019 y febrero de 2020 con cáncer de mama en el Hospital Municipal de Oncología María Curie. Como instrumento de medida se utilizó el cuestionario *Índice De Función Sexual Femenina* (FSFI), asociado a una encuesta para la obtención de datos sociodemográficos e información sobre los procedimientos medico-quirúrgicos realizados para el tratamiento del cáncer de mama. Resultados: La media de edad de las pacientes fue 54.86 años (SD 9.19). El 69.6% de ellas habían realizado tratamiento quirúrgico conservador, mientras que el 30.4% estaban mastectomizadas, no evidenciándose diferencias estadísticamente significativas en relación a la disfunción sexual en ambos grupos. Se realizó tratamiento quimioterápico en 69.6% del total de las pacientes y 75.5% hormonoterapia, observándose diferencia en el score FSFI al cotejar el tipo de hormonoterapia recibida. La prevalencia de disfunción sexual en este grupo fue de 82,35%. Los resultados evidenciaron valores bajos en la escala FSFI, siendo la media 19.6, lo que demuestra alteraciones en la función sexual en esta población. Conclusiones: El cáncer de mama posee un impacto multidimensional en la salud sexual de mujeres con cáncer de mama, constituyendo un elemento que influye en la calidad de vida. Los diversos tratamientos médico-quirúrgicos alteran la sexualidad, no pudiendo aún establecerse la relación directa que tienen sobre esta esfera

Introduction: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) includes a group of alterations in sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, satisfaction, orgasm, and dyspareunia, of multifactorial character, involving organic and psychological as well as sociocultural processes. The various medical-surgical treatments have an impact on sexual function. Female sexual dysfunction affects quality of life, with a prevalence of up to 45-90% in patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Objective: To evaluate sexual function in women with breast cancer, with oncologic followup of more than one year, evaluating the impact of different medical-surgical treatments on the index of female sexual function. Material and method: Observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study, where 102 pa- tients were included between August 2019 and February 2020 with breast cancer at the Maria Curie Municipal Oncology Hospital. As a measurement instrument, the questionnaire *Female Sexual Function Index* (FSFI) was used, associated with a survey to obtain sociodemographic data and information on the medical-surgical procedures performed for the treatment of breast cancer. Results: The mean age of the patients was 54.86 years (SD 9.19). Of these, 69.6% had undergone conservative surgical treatment, while 30.4% were mastectomized, with no statistically significant differences in relation to sexual dysfunction in the two groups. Chemotherapy treatment was performed in 69.6% of the total patients and 75.5% hormone therapy, showing a difference in the FSFI score when comparing the type of hormone therapy received. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in this group was 82.35%. The re- sults showed low values on the FSFI scale, with a mean of 19.6, which demonstrates alterations in sexual function in this population. Conclusions: Breast cancer has a multidimensional impact on the sexual health of women with breast cancer, constituting an element that influences the quality of life. The various medical-surgical treatments alter sexuality, although the direct relationship they have on this sphere cannot yet be established

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Depression and Sexual Function: Are Pregnant Women Affected More Adversely? / O impacto da pandemia de COVID-19 na depressão e na função sexual: as mulheres grávidas são afetadas de forma mais adversa?

Abstract Objective To investigate depression and sexual function among pregnant and nonpregnant women throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A total of 188 women, 96 pregnant and 92 non-pregnant were included. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were applied to the participants after obtaining sociodemographic data. Results The depression scores of pregnant and non-pregnant women were similar (p = 0.846). We found that the depression scores were significantly higher among the group of participants who have lower economic status (p = 0.046). Moreover, the depression score was significantly higher among women who lost their income during the pandemic (p = 0.027). The score on the ASEX was significantly higher, and sexual dysfunction was more prevalent among women who have lower levels of schooling and income (p < 0.05). Likewise, the ASEX scores were significantly higher (p = 0.019) among the group who experienced greater income loss throughout the pandemic. Upon comparing the pregnant and non-pregnant groups, we detected that sexual dysfunction had a significantly higher rate among pregnant women (p < 0.001). Conclusion In times of global crisis, such as the current pandemic, low-income families have an increased risk of experiencing depression and sexual dysfunction. When we compared pregnant women with non-pregnant women, depression scores were similar, but pregnant women were at a 6.2 times higher risk of developing sexual dysfunction.

Resumo Objetivo Investigar a depressão e as funções sexuais de mulheres grávidas e não grávidas durante a pandemia de Covid-19. Métodos Um total de 188 mulheres, 96 grávidas e 92 não grávidas, foram incluídas. O Inventário de Depressão de Beck (Beck Depression Inventory, BDI, em inglês) e a Escala de Experiências Sexuais do Arizona (Arizona Sexual Experience Scale, ASEX, em inglês) foram aplicados aos participantes após a obtenção dos dados sociodemográficos. Resultados As pontuações de depressão de mulheres grávidas e não grávidas foram semelhantes (p = 0,846). Verificou-se que as pontuações de depressão foram significativamente maiores no grupo de participantes de menor nível econômico (p = 0,046). Além disso, a pontuação de depressão foi significativamente maior em mulheres que perderam sua renda durante a pandemia (p = 0,027). A pontuação na ASEX foi significativamente maior, e a disfunção sexual foi mais prevalente em pessoas com menores escolaridade e nível de renda (p < 0,05). Da mesma forma, as pontuações na ASEX foram significativamente mais altas (p = 0,019) no grupo que experimentou maior perda de renda durante a pandemia. Ao comparar os grupos de gestantes e não gestantes, detectou-se que a disfunção sexual apresentava índice significativamente Conclusão Em tempos de crise global, como a atual pandemia, famílias de baixa renda têm um risco maior de sofrer depressão e disfunção sexual. Quando comparamos mulheres grávidas e mulheres não grávidas, as pontuações de depressão foram semelhantes, mas as mulheres grávidas apresentaram um risco 6,2 vezes maior de desenvolver disfunção sexual.

Sexual dysfunction among patients with endometrial cancer at a tertiary training public institution: A cross-sectional study / Philippine Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Objective@#Studies on Sexual dysfunctions among gynecologic cancer after treatment are sparse in the Philippines and data on sexual dysfunction varies greatly within the gynecologic oncology literature. This study aims to determine the sexual dysfunction among patients with endometrial cancer managed at a tertiary training public institution.@*Method@#This research was a cross-sectional study, which utilized a self-administered, validated Filipino version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire in assessing the different domains such as desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain. Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentages were used in determining the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with endometrial carcinoma while Kruskal Wallis test and Spearman Rank Correlations were used to determine the association of sexual dysfunction with age, body mass index (BMI), duration and stage of endometrial cancer, presence of comorbidities and mode of treatment.@*Results@#Between May 2020 and January 2021, there were 53 women who participated in this study. Forty-one (77.36%) have sexual dysfunction. Majority of the respondents either reached up to high school level (22.6%) or are college graduates (22.6%). Most of them are also self-employed (58.1%). Fifty eight percent have only 1–3 child/children. Analysis showed no significant correlation of presence of sexual dysfunction to stage of cancer, BMI, presence of comorbidities, period of diagnosis and type of treatment received by the patients. @*Conclusion@#The study showed that there was high prevalence of sexual dysfunction among endometrial cancer patients in this study institution. Furthermore, presence of sexual dysfunction is irregardless of BMI, presence of comorbidities, stage of diagnosis, length of diagnosis and type of treatment. Hence, proper screening, diagnosis and counselling should be done to all patients upon diagnosis to promote better quality of life.

Effect of laparoscopic transvesical radical prostatectomy on sexual function and urinary control / 中华泌尿外科杂志

Urinary incontinence and sexual dysfunction are common complications after prostatectomy. The clinical data of 12 patients with low-risk localized prostate cancer treated in Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated 6th People’s Hospital from November 2017 to November 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. All patients underwent transvesical laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. The recovery of urinary control and erectile function was satisfactory, with few complications and definite tumor control effect.

Clinical characteristics of Brucella epididym-orchitis / 中华地方病学杂志

Objective:To understand the clinical characteristics of Brucella epididym-orchitis (BEO). Methods:The clinical data of married male patients with brucellosis in acute stage admitted to Hulunbuir People's Hospital from September 2017 to October 2019 were collected and divided into BEO group and non-BEO group, with 46 and 50 cases, respectively. The clinical manifestations, laboratory examination and treatment effect were analyzed and evaluated.Results:The frequency of lower abdominal pain, erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation in BEO group were higher than those in non-BEO group [26.1% (12/46) vs 8.0% (4/50), 89.1% (41/46) vs 12.0% (6/50), and 28.3% (13/46) vs 6.0% (3/50), χ 2 = 5.643, 57.037, 8.548, P < 0.05]. In laboratory examination, the incidence of increased leukocyte (WBC) count in BEO group was significantly higher than that in non-BEO group [23.9% (11/46) vs 8.0% (4/50), χ 2 = 4.602, P < 0.05]. In terms of sperm function, the incidence of decreased sperm dens (DENS) in BEO group was significantly higher than that in non-BEO group [21.7% (10/46) vs 2.0% (1/50), χ 2 = 9.201, P < 0.05]. After 2 - 7 d of treatment, the pain and/or tenderness of scrotum were relieved in all patients with BEO. After 3 - 5 d of treatment, the symptoms of BEO patients with lower abdominal pain and dysuria were relieved. After 12 weeks of treatment, 97.8% (45/46) of BEO patients had normal scrotal and testicular ultrasonography; 95.1% (39/41) of BEO patients had normal erectile function, 76.9% (10/13) of BEO patients had no premature ejaculation, and DENS returned to normal in 80.0% (8/10) of patients with DENS decreased. Five cases' sperm motility (PRNPPER) returned to normal of 6 patients with PRNPPER decreased. Conclusion:BEO patients have the clinical characteristics of lower abdominal pain, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation and spermatogenic dysfunction, and the overall prognosis is good after treatment.

Sexual communication and functioning among adult stroke patients with non-fluent aphasia: A cross-sectional study

@#<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Background.</strong> Stroke remains a leading cause of death and disability in the Philippines, rendering its survivors unable to cope well with activities of daily living, including sexual functioning. Sexual dysfunction is an under-recognized complication post-stroke, and mobility and communication barriers among those with aphasia can further contribute to sexual dysfunction, potentially affecting their quality of life.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Objective.</strong> To determine the changes in sexual functioning among patients with aphasia and the communication methods they used to compensate for language and communication deficits.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Method.</strong> This was a descriptive cross-sectional study involving patients (?30 years old, with 1 episode of stroke, with non-fluent aphasia) and their respective sexual partners. Data were gathered using a clinician-administered questionnaire based on previous studies. Outcomes included changes in libido, coital frequency, time of resumption of sexual activity, erectile/ orgasmic ability, sexual satisfaction, and alternative methods of communication.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Results.</strong> Forty participants were included comprising of 20 patients with aphasia and their respective sexual partners. There was a decline in sexual activity among the couples, with reduced frequency of sexual intercourse. Both patients and partners reported difficulties in expressing the desire for sexual activities, hindering initiation. There was noted difficulty in ascertaining the sexual experience of patients with aphasia (i.e., whether pleasure or pain), hindering maintenance and enjoyment of the sexual act. In response to the difficulties mentioned above, sexual innuendoes as communication strategies were described by the couples.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Conclusion.</strong> The study provides baseline local data on changes in sexual functioning among stroke patients with nonfluent aphasia and their sexual partners. Sexual rehabilitation is recommended in the holistic management of patients with aphasia to train couples develop compensatory techniques to adjust to the changes in their sexual lives.</p>

Impact of surgical treatment for locally recurrent rectal cancer on the quality of life of patients / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: To investigate the impact of surgical treatment on quality of life in patients with locally recurrent rectal cancer (LRRC). Methods: A descriptive case series study was performed. The complete clinical data of 62 patients who met the diagnostic criteria of LRRC and treated by surgical procedures in Huashan Hospital of Fudan University from January 2012 to November 2019 were analyzed retrospectively. All the patients were followed up at least 12 months. Assessments of urinary function, sexual function, mobility function of lower limb and quality of life were documented. Patients with distant metastasis and surgical history of the urinary system were excluded. According to the criteria of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC), recurrence were divided into central (n=27), anterior (n=20), posterior (n=7), and lateral (n=8) subtypes. Baseline characteristics, surgical procedures and short-term complications were analyzed. International prostate symptom score (IPSS) and grade of voiding dysfunction were used to evaluate the urinary function. Higher score of IPSS and higher grade of voiding dysfunction indicated worse voiding function. Sexual function for both genders was assessed preoperatively and postoperatively. International index of erectile function-5 (IIEF-5) was used for assessment of male patients and higher score indicated better function. Female sexual function index (FSFI) was used in females and higher score indicated better function. Short-form health survey with 36 items (SF-36), yielding an 8-scale profile of functional health (physical functioning, role-physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, emotional health and mental health) was used to evaluate the quality of life. The higher score indicated the better quality of life. Results: All the operations of 62 patients completed successfully and R0 resection rate was 88.7% (55/62). Postoperative surgical complications occurred in 16 cases (25.8%), including 3 patients of Clavien-Dindo classification III. At postoperative 3-month, 42 patients without ileum cystectomy or ureterostomy suffered from different grade of voiding dysfunction. IPSS increased significantly after the surgery (before surgery: 12.36±4.75, after surgery: 18.40±4.77, t=-9.128, P<0.001). There was no significant difference among the subtypes (P>0.05). At postoperative 12-month, IIEF-5 decreased from 14 (0~25) to 9 (0~19) in males (Z=-5.174, P<0.001) and FSFI deceased from 8.4 (2.0-27.0) to 2.0 (2.0-18.4) in females (Z=-3.522, P<0.001). Scores of physical functioning and role-physical decreased significantly [physical functioning: before surgery 70 (35-85), after surgery 65 (30-80), Z=-3.685, P<0.001; role-physical: before surgery 50 (0-50), after surgery 25(0-75), Z=-4.065, P<0.001], while those of social functioning role-emotional and mental health increased significantly after the surgery [social functioning: before surgery 44 (22-78), after surgery 56 (0-89), Z=-3.509, P<0.001; role-emotional: before surgery 17 (0-100), after surgery 33 (0-100), Z=-2.439, P=0.015; mental health: before surgery 40 (36-76), after surgery 52 (24-80), Z=-3.395, P<0.001]. All surgical procedures decreased the voiding function of LRRC patients and the sexual function of male patients (all P<0.01). However, only total pelvic exenteration and posterior pelvic exenteration decreased FSFI in female patients [before surgery: 8.4 (2.0-27.0) after surgery: 2.0 (2.0-18.4), Z=-2.810, P=0.005]. Conclusions: Multi-visceral resection in LRRC patients may damage voiding and sexual function. However, successful and effective surgical treatment can improve the psychosocial health of LRRC patients.