Radical cystectomy and urinary diversion in women: Impact on sexual function

Abstract Objective. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of radical cystectomy and different forms of urinary diversion on female sexual function. Material and methods. Seventy-three consecutive patients were included in the study. The mean age was 52.3 ± 6.5 years. All of them had undergone non-nerve-sparing radical cystectomy and urinary diversion for invasive bladder cancer. Patients were questioned about their current general relations with their husbands in comparison to the preoperative status. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used to assess libido, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and painful sexual dysfunction. Patients were asked about any urinary complaints during or after sexual intercourse. Results. Twenty-nine patients (39%) reported worsening relations with their husbands. The mean frequency of sexual relations was 2.3 ± 2.3/month; however, sexual relations had ceased completely in 19 patients (26%). Overall satisfaction among sexually active women worsened in 32 (59.2%...