Sexual Health in Women Affected by Gynecologic or Breast Cancer.

Sexual health problems are prevalent among women affected by gynecologic or breast cancer. It is important to understand the effects cancer treatment can have on sexual health and to have the tools necessary to identify and treat sexual health problems. This Clinical Expert Series discusses practical methods for routinely screening for sexual dysfunction and reviews sexual health treatment options for women affected by cancer. We review the limitations of the current literature in addressing sexual health problems among sexually and gender minoritized communities. Finally, we discuss appropriate timing of referrals to sexual health experts, physical therapists, and sex therapists. Multiple resources available for both patients and clinicians are included.

Psychosocial interventions to improve sexual functioning in women with cancer: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

INTRODUCTION: Many women with cancer struggle with sexual side effects during and after treatment. Although preliminary evidence indicates that psychosocial interventions may be efficacious in improving sexual functioning for women with cancer, no systematic review has summarized the state of the science in this area. OBJECTIVES: The primary goal of this review was to narratively synthesize the results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) testing the efficacy of psychosocial interventions to address sexual dysfunction in women with cancer. A secondary goal was to describe the diversity of the included samples (ie, racial/ethnic and sexual minority). METHODS: Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a systematic review was conducted examining RCTs of psychosocial interventions to improve sexual functioning for women with cancer. Articles were identified using MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and Cochrane CENTRAL. Two reviewers independently assessed each article for inclusion, with a third to resolve discrepancies. RESULTS: Seventeen studies were included in the review, 12 of which provided sufficient information to calculate effect sizes. Ten of the 12 studies primarily aimed to improve sexual functioning, all of which demonstrated positive effects on at least 1 outcome of sexual functioning. In the 2 RCTs of psychosocial interventions in which sexual function was a secondary aim, effects were negligible (ds = -0.04 and -0.15). Commonalities among the studies with large effect sizes were that they included education, mindfulness/acceptance, and communication/relationship skills as intervention components. Of note, there was an overall lack of sample diversity across studies, and most studies failed to report the race/ethnicity or sexual orientation of the participants. CONCLUSION: Results support interventions targeting sexual functioning outcomes for women with cancer and suggest that multimodal interventions including education, mindfulness/acceptance, and communication/relationship skills may be most effective. Future research should also focus on examining the efficacy and potential adaptations of extant sexual functioning interventions for underrepresented groups.

Sexual Dysfunction and Dyspareunia in the Setting of the Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause.

Sexual dysfunction is a common consequence of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). In this book chapter, we discuss the pathophysiology, prevalence, evaluation, and evidence-based management of sexual dysfunction in patients affected by GSM. Additionally, we present an algorithm to guide clinicians in the management and treatment of sexual dysfunction in this setting based on available evidence and best practices.

Affective neuroscience: applications for sexual medicine research and clinical practice.

INTRODUCTION: Affective neuroscience is the study of the brain substrates of emotional, embodied experiences. Affective neuroscience theory (ANT) is based on experimental evidence that all mammals are hardwired with 7 primary subcortical emotional operating systems, or "core emotions," that have overlapping but distinct circuits buried in the deep, ancient parts of the brain. Imbalances in the 7 core emotions can affect multiple aspects of the individual's psychosocial well-being (eg, depression, anxiety, substance abuse). Here, we propose that core emotions can also influence sexual function and, specifically, that imbalances in core emotions are the bridge connecting psychiatric symptoms (eg, anhedonia) to sexual dysfunction (eg, anorgasmia). OBJECTIVES: In this targeted review and commentary, we outline potential connections between ANT and sexual medicine research and clinical practice. We summarize ANT by defining the 3-level BrainMind and core emotions; examining how they relate to personality, behavior, and mental health; and determining the implications for sexual health research and clinical practice. METHODS: A targeted literature review was conducted. Case studies were adapted from client files and clinician interviews and then anonymized. RESULTS: We propose a novel organizational schema for implementing affective balance therapies for sexual dysfunction, which integrate psychoeducational, somatic, and cognitive therapeutic approaches under the ANT framework. We provide 3 patient case studies (anorgasmia, hypersexuality, spinal cord injury) outlining the implementation of this approach and patient outcomes. CONCLUSION: ANT has practical translational applications in sexual health research and clinical practice. By integrating our understanding of the role of core emotions in human sexuality, clinicians can better tailor treatments to address sexual dysfunction.

A clinical guide to rare male sexual disorders.

Conditions referred to as 'male sexual dysfunctions' usually include erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders and male hypogonadism. However, some less common male sexual disorders exist, which are under-recognized and under-treated, leading to considerable morbidity, with adverse effects on individuals' sexual health and relationships. Such conditions include post-finasteride syndrome, restless genital syndrome, post-orgasmic illness syndrome, post-selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) sexual dysfunction, hard-flaccid syndrome, sleep-related painful erections and post-retinoid sexual dysfunction. Information about these disorders usually originates from case-control trials or small case series; thus, the published literature is scarce. As the aetiology of these diseases has not been fully elucidated, the optimal investigational work-up and therapy are not well defined, and the available options cannot, therefore, adequately address patients' sexual problems and implement appropriate treatment. Thus, larger-scale studies - including prospective trials and comprehensive case registries - are crucial to better understand the aetiology, prevalence and clinical characteristics of these conditions. Furthermore, collaborative efforts among researchers, health-care professionals and patient advocacy groups will be essential in order to develop evidence-based guidelines and novel therapeutic approaches that can effectively address these disorders. By advancing our understanding and refining treatment strategies, we can strive towards improving the quality of life and fostering healthier sexual relationships for individuals suffering from these rare sexual disorders.

Education in Female Sexual Function and Dysfunction among American Urogynecologic Society Members: An Unmet Need.

OBJECTIVES: Sexual function is an important component of women's health that has not been traditionally emphasized during medical training, suggesting that further education is needed to provide comprehensive patient care. The purpose of this study was to describe education and interest in female sexual function among urogynecology providers. METHODS: Conducted in 2020, this was a cross-sectional survey of American Urogynecologic Society members assessing educational and clinical experience with female sexual function. RESULTS: Of 642 members who opened the survey, 123 (19%) completed it. Most of the respondents were fellowship trained (70%), and 74% reported ≥10% of their patients had sexual function questions or concerns unrelated to prolapse or incontinence. Most (71%) of the members strongly agreed/agreed that they were comfortable evaluating and managing these patients. This was more common in providers who saw more patients (≥25%) with sexual function concerns (83%) compared with those who saw <25% (65%; P = 0.04). Most of the respondents reported receiving ≤1 lecture on normal sexual function (82%) or sexual dysfunction (85%) during medical training. Most (67%) would expand their practice if they received additional education. The most requested topics were disorders of desire (72%), orgasm (71%), and arousal (67%). The most common reasons for not expanding practice even with additional education were female sexual function not being of significant interest (30%) and time and interruption of practice flow (28%). CONCLUSIONS: Most of the respondents felt comfortable caring for patients with sexual function concerns, but reported that they would expand their practice with additional education. The majority reported having received ≤1 female sexual function/dysfunction lecture during their medical training. This highlights a critical need and desire for more female sexual function education among the urogynecologic provider population.

Female sexual dysfunction in an outpatient andrology clinic—A therapeutic opportunity? / Disfunción sexual femenina en clínica de andrología. ¿Una oportunidad terapéutica?

Introduction: The sexual life of a couple is a dynamic entity, in which the two influence each other mutually, thus the existence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) can influence the treatment of the man who seeks clinical help. Identify sexual dysfunction in female partners of patients attending an andrology clinic may provide a therapeutic opportunity. The authors aim to assess proportion of FSD in this population by comparison with a control group. Material and methods: A longitudinal study over 12 months timespan. The female partners of patients attending the andrology clinic participating in the study (study group – SG) completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), as did the women serving as controls (control group – CG). Further data such as age, duration and quality of the relationship and previous relationships was also collected. Results: Of the 30 women included in the SG, 14 (46.6%) considered that their current sex life was worse than in previous relationships. Of the 20 women in the CG, 60% considered that their current sex life was better. In the SG, 22 (73.3%) had FSD, with a mean score in the FSFI of 20.5, whereas only 3 women in the CG (15%) had FSD, with a mean score of 30.7 (p<0.01). Conclusions: Our study demonstrated that the proportion of FSD in female partners of patients attending an andrology clinic is significantly higher than control group. FSD treatment should be considered as a therapeutic opportunity for the couple in this setting. (AU)

Introducción: La vida sexual de una pareja es una entidad dinámica, en la que ambos se influyen mutuamente, por lo que la existencia de disfunción sexual femenina (DSF) puede influir en el tratamiento del hombre que busca ayuda clínica. Identificar la disfunción sexual en las parejas femeninas de los pacientes que asisten a una Clínica de Andrología puede brindar una oportunidad terapéutica. Los autores pretenden evaluar la proporción de DSF en esta población comparándola con un grupo de control. Material y métodos: Estudio longitudinal durante 12 meses. Las parejas femeninas de los pacientes que asistieron a la Clínica de Andrología y que participaron en el estudio (grupo de estudio) completaron el Índice de Función Sexual Femenina, de la misma forma que las mujeres, que sirvieron como control (grupo de control). También se recopilaron datos adicionales como edad, duración, calidad de la relación y las relaciones entre los anteriores. Resultados: De las 30 mujeres incluidas en el grupo de estudio, 14 (46,6%) consideraron que su vida sexual actual era peor que en relaciones anteriores. De las 20 mujeres del grupo control, el 60% consideró que su vida sexual actual era mejor. En el grupo de estudio, 22 (73,3%) tenían DSF, con una puntuación media de Índice de Función Sexual Femenina de 20,5, mientras que solo 3 mujeres en el grupo control (15%) tenían DSF, con una puntuación media de 30,7 (p <0,01). Conclusiones: Nuestro estudio demostró que la proporción de DSF en parejas femeninas de pacientes que acuden a una Clínica de Andrología es significativamente mayor que en el grupo control. El tratamiento de la disfunción sexual femenina debe considerarse como una oportunidad terapéutica para la pareja en este escenario. (AU)

Overview of sexual dysfunction in patients with cancer

Among survivor’s patients with cancer, sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common treatment-related disturbance that significantly affects their quality of life. The disorder can be a short-term effect, but frequently it can be permanent and patients often do not receive adequate support to overcome the problem. The characteristics of SD may differ depending on the type of neoplasm and oncological treatment. The most common long-term effects are those related to treatment-induced menopause, ablative oncologic surgery, and altered gonadal function. Breast, prostate, and gynecologic cancers are the tumors most commonly associated with disturbances in sexual health, although there is evidence of SD in patients with other types of neoplasms. It is necessary for the healthcare team caring for oncological patients to be aware of the characteristics of sexual dysfunction in this population. This will make it possible to offer patients a comprehensive and personalized approach to improve their quality of life (AU)

[Sexual dysfunction on the background of antidepressant therapy]. / Seksual'nye disfunktsii na fone antidepressivnoi terapii.

The review is devoted to the problem of sexual dysfunction caused by taking antidepressants. Sexual dysfunction is widespread, but it is not reported, and its impact on the quality of life and compliance of patients is underestimated. Partly because of its bidirectional association with depression, sexual dysfunction is difficult to diagnose. Possible mechanisms and risk factors associated with sexual dysfunction in patients with depression are considered. The data on the frequency of sexual dysfunction with the use of various antidepressants are given. Therapeutic strategies for sexual dysfunction associated with taking antidepressants are described. The advantages of agomelatin as an antidepressant associated with a low risk of sexual side effects are emphasized.

Taking their wellbeing into their own hands: Self-educated and peer-recommended techniques used by women with breast cancer to improve sexual functioning during treatment and in survivorship.

OBJECTIVE: Coping with sexual dysfunction during and after breast cancer treatment is a persistent challenge for many women, even with clinician-offered standard sexual rehabilitative therapies (i.e., lubricants, counseling). This study sought to explore how women with breast cancer supplement clinician recommendations with self-discovered and peer-recommended techniques for improving sexual functioning and provide insight into how well they work. METHODS: Adult women with stage I-IV breast cancer were recruited to participate in a one-time online survey via Breastcancer.org. Thematic analysis identified emergent domains and themes focused on techniques for improving sexual function during and after treatment. Frequencies were calculated to quantify technique sources and perceived efficacy levels. RESULTS: Of 501 women responding to the survey, mean age was 53 years (range 30-79). Overall, 34.7% reported using a technique they discovered themselves or that was recommended by someone other than a clinician to improve sexual functioning. Four main themes regarding techniques included: 1) pain reduction, 2) intimacy and relationship enhancement, 3) desire and arousal enhancement, and 4) emotional coping. Most women discovered coping techniques without the help of clinicians, and 45.7% of women rated their techniques as moderately or more effective when used in addition to or instead of standard techniques offered by clinicians. CONCLUSIONS: Our study provides insight into how women with breast cancer successfully cope with sexual dysfunction symptoms during and after treatment. To fully understand and share patients' innovative techniques for coping with these symptoms, clinicians should foster open discussion about the potential for dysfuction and treatment for these symptoms, as well as avenues of peer-supported discussion to promote coping self-education and discovery.

Managing antipsychotic-related sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia.

INTRODUCTION: Schizophrenia is a psychotic disorder and one of the most severe and impactful mental illnesses. Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in patients with schizophrenia but remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Sexual dysfunction is frequently attributed to antipsychotics which may reduce medication adherence, but negative symptoms can also reduce sexual drive. AREAS COVERED: This review provides an overview of the current knowledge about sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia. The authors first review the literature concerning the mechanisms of sexual dysfunction and explore the impact of antipsychotics on sexual function. Finally, they present the available non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment strategies for sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia. EXPERT OPINION: Sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia is still underrated by clinicians despite having a negative impact on the quality of life and therapeutic adherence. Antipsychotic treatment is still perceived as a major cause of sexual impairment. Psychiatrists must be aware of this condition and actively question the patients. A comprehensive approach, addressing pharmacological and non-pharmacological aspects, is fundamental for managing sexual dysfunction in schizophrenia. Pharmacological strategies include (1) Serum-level adjustment of the antipsychotic dose, if possible (2) switching to a well-tolerable antipsychotic (aripiprazole, brexpiprazole) and (3) adding a coadjuvant drug (phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors).

Microablative fractional radiofrequency for sexual dysfunction and vaginal Trophism: A randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate Microablative Fractional Radiofrequency (MAFRF) as a possible option in treating vaginal atrophy. METHODS: This was a randomized, controlled clinical trial with postmenopausal women diagnosed with vaginal atrophy. The treatment consisted of three sessions of MAFRF, compared to vaginal estrogen administration and an untreated control group. Assessments occurred at baseline and 90 days. The primary endpoints were sexual function, evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and vaginal health, assessed by the Vaginal Health Index (VHI). Secondary outcomes included vaginal microbiota composition (Nugent score) and epithelial cell maturation (Maturation Value ‒ MV). RESULTS: One hundred and twenty women (40 in each group) were included. Concerning the FSFI, both groups, MAFRF (median 4.8 [3.6‒6.0]) and vaginal estrogen (mean 4.7 ± 1.1), experienced improved sexual desire when compared to the control group (median 3.6 [2.4‒4.8]). Regarding the total score of VHI, the authors observed an improvement in the mean of the MAFRF (23.7 ± 2.0) and vaginal estrogen groups (23.5 ± 1.9) when compared to the control (14.8 ± 2.9). The Nugent score was reduced in the MAFRF and estrogen groups (p < 0.01) compared to the control group. Lastly, the MV was modified after treatment with MAFRF (p < 0.01) and vaginal estrogen (p < 0.001). No differences existed between the MAFRF and vaginal estrogen groups in the studied variables. No adverse effects were reported following the MAFRF protocol. CONCLUSIONS: Radiofrequency was comparable in efficacy to estrogen administration for treating vulvovaginal atrophy. It deserves consideration as a viable option in managing this condition.

Expectations about the management of sexual dysfunction in women with multiple sclerosis and association with clinical characteristics.

BACKGROUND: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is common in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) and affects their quality of life. OBJECTIVES: The primary aim is to assess their expectations concerning SD management. The secondary aim is to identify if expectations were associated with specific patient's characteristics. METHODS: All women with MS who underwent a urodynamic assessment in a neuro-urology clinic and had a standardized assessment of SD expectations between June 2020 and November 2022 were retrospectively screened. Demographic data and assessment of bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunctions with validated questionnaires were collected. RESULTS: One hundred and sixty-seven patients were included in the study (mean age 47.9 ± 12.5 years). Expectations on SD information or management were reported by 112 (67.1%) patients. Interest in SD information and management was less frequent after menopause (56% vs 80%, p = 0.004), and in those with EDSS>6 (49% vs 74%, p = 0.03) and progressive type of MS (54% vs 71% p = 0.003). In multivariate analysis, the progressive type of MS was the only criterion related to a lack of interest (OR=2.9 IC95% [1.09; 7.72]). CONCLUSIONS: Women with MS have high expectations on treatment and information about SD. A systematic screening of SD expectations should be encouraged.

Overview of sexual dysfunction in patients with cancer.

Among survivor's patients with cancer, sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common treatment-related disturbance that significantly affects their quality of life. The disorder can be a short-term effect, but frequently it can be permanent and patients often do not receive adequate support to overcome the problem. The characteristics of SD may differ depending on the type of neoplasm and oncological treatment. The most common long-term effects are those related to treatment-induced menopause, ablative oncologic surgery, and altered gonadal function. Breast, prostate, and gynecologic cancers are the tumors most commonly associated with disturbances in sexual health, although there is evidence of SD in patients with other types of neoplasms. It is necessary for the healthcare team caring for oncological patients to be aware of the characteristics of sexual dysfunction in this population. This will make it possible to offer patients a comprehensive and personalized approach to improve their quality of life.

Sacral nerve modulation for patients with fecal incontinence: long-term outcome and effects on sexual function.

Sacral nerve modulation has become an established treatment for fecal and urinary incontinence, and sexual disorders. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of sacral neuromodulation in patients with fecal or combined fecal and urinary incontinence (double incontinence), assessing its safety, efficacy, and impact on quality of life and sexual function. This was a multicentric, retrospective, cohort study including patients with fecal or double incontinence who received sacral neuromodulation at seven European centers between 2007 and 2017 and completed a 5-year follow-up. The main outcome measures included improvements of incontinence symptoms and quality of life compared with baseline, evaluated using validated tools and questionnaires at 1-, 6-, 12-, 36- and 60-month follow-up. 108 (102 women, mean age 62.4 ± 13.4 years) patients were recruited, of whom 88 (81.4%) underwent definitive implantation of the pacemaker. Patients' baseline median Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score was 15 (10-18); it decreased to 2 (1-4) and 1 (1-2) at the 12- and 36-month follow-up (p < 0.0001), remaining stable at the 5-year follow-up. Fecal incontinence quality of life score improved significantly. All patients with sexual dysfunction (n = 48) at baseline reported symptom resolution at the 5-year follow-up. The study was limited by the retrospective design and the relatively small patient sample. Sacral nerve modulation is an effective treatment for fecal and double incontinence, achieving satisfactory long-term success rates, with resolution of concomitant sexual dysfunction.

Associação da educação sexual, cinesioterapia e terapia manual no tratamento de mulheres anorgásmicas: um estudo de caso / Association of sex education, kinesiotherapy and manual therapy in the treatment of anorgasmic women: a case study

O orgasmo é o ápice da excitação sexual e, quando comumente não experienciado, denomina-se anorgasmia, segunda queixa sexual mais frequente entre mulheres. A fisioterapia é um recurso que visa beneficiar a qualidade de vida das mulheres anorgásmicas por meio da prevenção, reparação de função e tratamento de quadros álgicos. O estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos da associação das técnicas de cinesioterapia aplicada à musculatura do assoalho pélvico, massagem perineal e conscientização acerca da sexualidade das participantes. Os métodos utilizados foram educação sexual, massagem perineal e cinesioterapia associada ao uso da sonda uroginecológica New PelviFit Trainer, como biofeedback visual, para promover conscientização e estimar os efeitos sobre a condição da musculatura do assoalho pélvico de mulheres com relato de anorgasmia. O resultado obtido com o protocolo da associação das técnicas terapêuticas em mulheres com disfunção orgásmica apresentou melhora da função sexual feminina, aumento da força e do estado de relaxamento da musculatura do assoalho pélvico, avaliados pelo questionário Índice de Função Sexual Feminina, quantificados por meio da escala de Oxford modificada e da escala de avaliação de flexibilidade vaginal, respectivamente. Como conclusão, a aplicação das técnicas fisioterapêuticas aliadas ao tratamento humanizado, com enfoque na conscientização das mulheres, autopercepção corporal e manutenção da função sexual, promoveu melhora da disfunção sexual orgásmica. Apesar de necessário maior embasamento científico relativo ao tema, a presente abordagem para o tratamento em questão apresentou-se promissora e pertinente à base de dados. (AU)

Orgasm is the peak of sexual excitement, when not commonly experienced, it is called anorgasmia, second most frequent sexual complaint among women. Physiotherapy is a resource that aims to improve the quality of life of anorgasmics women through prevention, function repair and pain management. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the effects of kinesiotherapy techniques applied on the pelvic floor muscles, associated with perineal massage and the participants' sexual awareness. The methods used were sexual education, perineal massage, kinesiotherapy associated with the use of the New PelviFit Trainer urogynecological probe, as a visual feedback, to promove awearness and estimate its effects on the pelvic floor muscles condition in women reporting anorgasmia. The result obtained with the protocol of association of therapeutic techniques in women with orgasmic dysfunction showed improvement in the female sexual function, assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire, increased strength and pelvic floor muscles relaxation, quantified using the Modified Oxford scale and the vaginal flexibility assessment scale, respectively. As a conclusion, the application of physiotherapeutic techniques combined with humanized treatment, with a focus on awareness of women, body self-perception and maintenance of sexual function, promoted improvement of orgasmic sexual dysfunction. Despite the need for a greater scientific basis on the subject, the present approach to the treatment in question was promising and relevant to the database. (AU)

Care needs of Japanese men for sexual dysfunction associated with prostate cancer treatment.

PURPOSE: Prostate cancer (PC) treatment causes sexual dysfunction (SD) and alters fertility, male identity, and intimate relationships with partners. In Japan, little attention has been paid to the importance of providing care for SD associated with PC treatment. This study is aimed at clarifying the care needs of Japanese men regarding SD associated with PC treatment. METHODS: One-to-one semi-structured interviews were conducted with 44 PC patients to identify their care needs. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Four core categories emerged from the analysis. (1) "Need for empathy from medical staff regarding fear of SD": patients had difficulty confiding in others about their sexual problems, and medical staff involvement in their SD issues was lacking. (2) "Need for information that provides an accurate understanding of SD and coping strategies before deciding on treatment": lack of information about SD in daily life and difficulty understanding information from medical institutions, caused men to regret their treatment. (3) "Need for professional care for individuals and couples affected by SD": men faced loss of intimacy because of their partners' unwillingness to understand their SD issues or tolerate non-sexual relationships. (4) "Need for an environment that facilitates interaction among men to resolve SD issues": men felt lonely and wanted to interact with other patients about their SD concerns. CONCLUSION: These findings may help form care strategies tailored to these needs and applicable to other societies with strong traditional gender norms.