E-Posters-Body Image and Sexual Function Following Simple versus Radical Cystectomy in Women

Body Image and Sexual Function Following Simple versus Radical Cystectomy in Women - Kshipra Hemal, BS

Pdf Summary

This study aimed to compare body image, sexual function, and satisfaction in women undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) versus simple cystectomy (SC). Phone or electronic surveys were conducted on 38 female patients who underwent RC or SC between 2005-2017 at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital. The results showed that younger women had worse body image scores, regardless of the type of cystectomy. Rates of sexual activity were low among the participants, with reasons including no longer having a functional vagina, the pouch getting in the way, difficulties with orgasm/climax, and pain and discomfort. Interest in sexual activity among cystectomy patients was significantly lower than the U.S. population. RC patients had higher rates of vulvar and clitoral discomfort and lower ability to orgasm compared to the U.S. population, while SC did not. Sexual activity was not associated with age, marital status, PGII score, or body image. Overall, the cohort's interest in sexual activity was significantly lower than the U.S. population. The study calls for more research on the sexual function outcomes of women post-cystectomy, as most existing studies focus on men. It suggests that preserving sexual function through surgical technique modifications and provider-initiated discussions about sexual health goals before surgery can improve outcomes.

Keywords

body image

sexual function

satisfaction

women

radical cystectomy

simple cystectomy

sexual activity

orgasm

pain and discomfort

surgical technique modifications