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DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1558374
When sex is not on fire: A prospective multicentre study evaluating the long-term effects of radical resection of endometriosis on quality of sex life and dyspareunia
Objective:
The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effect of surgical resection of endometriosis on dyspareunia, sexual function, quality of sex life and interpersonal relationships.
Study design:
A questionnaire-based multicentre prospective study was conducted in six tertiary referral centres in Austria and Germany. Ninety-six patients with histologically proven endometriosis and dyspareunia were included. Before surgery and averagely 10 months after it [range 9 – 12], the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) were used to screen women's sexuality. Additionally, we evaluated psychological parameters and pain intensity during/after sexual intercourse via a self-administered questionnaire.
Results:
Frequency of interrupted sexual intercourse, avoidance of sexual intercourse, feelings of guilt towards the partner, being afraid of pain before/during sexual intercourse and feelings of being a burden for the relationship decreased significantly in patients with peritoneal endometriosis and deep infiltrating endometriosis. Also pain during/after intercourse decreased significantly after surgery. Sexually related personal distress did not improve in women with peritoneal endometriosis/vaginal resection, but in cases of deep infiltrating endometriosis sexually related personal distress decreased significantly.
Conclusion:
Radical laparoscopic excision of endometriosis seems to be an effective treatment option and offers a significant improvement in dyspareunia and quality of sex life.