The effect of pelvic organ prolapse and various options for its correction on female sexual function: A review

Abstract

The sexual activity of patients before and after the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) largely determines their quality of life and satisfaction with the intervention. This review analyzes current data on the nature of changes in sexual function in various pelvic organ prolapse correction methods. Particular attention is paid to a comparative assessment of the effect of available surgical techniques with abdominal and vaginal access on the risk of de novo dyspareunia. Based on the results of clinical studies and systematic reviews, the most optimal ways of correcting POP have been established; tools for assessing their effectiveness in routine clinical practice have been proposed; the importance of an interdisciplinary approach to the treatment of POP with the involvement of medical psychologists has been noted due to the significant role of emotional and behavioral factors in sexual dysfunction.

Keywords

• pelvic organ prolapse
• pelvic floor failure
• sexual function
• dyspareunia