Sexual function in women with pelvic organ prolapse compared to women without pelvic organ prolapse.

Abstract

We compared sexual function in women with pelvic organ prolapse to that in women without prolapse. We collected sexual function data using a standardized, validated, condition specific questionnaire. The study group consisted of 30 women with pelvic organ prolapse and it was compared with 30 unmatched controls without evidence of prolapse. The 2 groups were similar in age, race, parity and postmenopausal hormone use. Subjects in the study group were more likely to have undergone previous pelvic surgery. Mean total Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Function Questionnaire scores +/- SD were lower in the study group compared with controls (81.4 +/- 7.3 vs 106.4 +/- 15.5, p <0.001). In the study group total questionnaire scores in women with prior pelvic surgery were similar to those in women without prior pelvic surgery (79.3 +/- 14.9 vs 82.9 +/- 10.2, p = 0.61). Pelvic organ prolapse appears to have a significant negative impact on sexual function.