Sexology and Pelvic Floor

Colpoperineoplasty in women with a sensation of a wide vagina.
Pardo JS, Sola VD, Ricci PA, Guiloff EF, Freundlich OK
Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2006;85(9):1125-7.

Background. In women complaining of a wide vagina and decreased sexual satisfaction we performed colporrhaphy - including perineoplasty in most cases. Methods. Between November 2003 and October 2004, a total of 53 patients were selected for operation at the Urogynecology and Vaginal Surgery Unit, Las Condes Clinic, Chile. The patients were requested to assess the results of surgery in terms of experienced vaginal tightening and regained or enhanced sexual satisfaction. Results. Six months after surgery, 94% experienced a tighter vagina and said they were able to achieve orgasm. Expectations were fulfilled in 74%, partially fulfilled in 21%, and not met in 5%. Only two patients (4%) regretted surgery, and two patients had minor surgical complications. Conclusion. In a selected group of women with acquired sensation of a wide vagina, colporrhaphy seems to improve symptoms and enhance sexual gratification in a majority of the women. A controlled trial with a longer follow-up is needed for a proper evaluation.

Specific Fracture Configurations Predict Sexual and Excretory Dysfunction in Men and Women 1 Year After Pelvic Fracture.
Wright JL, Nathens AB, Rivara FP, Mackenzie EJ, Wessells H
J Urol. 2006 Oct;176(4):1540-1545.

PURPOSE: We determined the prevalence and predictors of sexual and excretory dysfunction in patients 1 year after pelvic fracture. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The multicenter Pennsylvania Trauma Outcomes Study enrolled 1,238 patients and contacted them 1 year after injury. Sexual limitations and excretory dysfunction (bladder/bowel incontinence) were defined based on responses from the Functional Capacity Index. Health related quality of life was determined using SF-36trade mark. The relationship between specific fracture patterns and dysfunction along with the effect of dysfunction on quality of life in patients with pelvic fracture were evaluated by multivariate analysis. RESULTS: Of 1,160 eligible patients 292 (26%) had pelvic fractures. Sexual dysfunction was reported in 21% vs 14% of those with vs without pelvic fractures and bowel or bladder incontinence was reported in 8% vs 4%. On multivariate analysis men with sacroiliac fractures were at higher risk for sexual (RR 4.0, 95% CI 2.3 to 6.8) and excretory (RR 4.3, 95% CI 1.4 to 13.5) dysfunction. In women symphyseal diastasis was associated with sexual (RR 4.8, 95% CI 2.0 to 11.2) and excretory (RR 12.5, 95% CI 1.9 to 80.2) dysfunction. Of patients with pelvic fractures men with sexual dysfunction and women with excretory dysfunction had significantly worse quality of life than those without dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: One year after trauma men with sacroiliac fractures and women with symphyseal diastasis were at increased risk for sexual and excretory dysfunction independent of overt pelvic organ injury. In patients with pelvic fracture male sexual dysfunction and female excretory dysfunction were associated with decreased quality of life. Our data highlight the need for further study of dysfunction following pelvic trauma and interventions to decrease the risk of long-term disability.

Gene Therapy for Erectile Dysfunction: Fact or Fiction?
Kendirci M, Teloken PE, Champion HC, Hellstrom WJ, Bivalacqua TJ
Eur Urol. 2006 Aug 18;.

OBJECTIVES: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a major health problem that seriously affects the quality of life of patients and their partners. Although all three selective phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is) are effective in the majority of ED cases, PDE5-I therapy is less efficacious in some hard-to-treat populations (diabetics, men after radical prostatectomy), prompting the development of new approaches, including gene therapy strategies for ED. METHODS: Gene therapy approaches are discussed in terms of the possible role of gene therapy for the treatment of ED, potential targets for gene transfer, vectors to carry targeted genes, and gene strategies for ED in certain disease states, such as diabetes, ageing, arterial and venogenic insufficiency, and cavernous nerve injury. RESULTS: The penis is a convenient tissue target for gene therapy because of its external location and accessibility, the ubiquity of endothelial-lined spaces, and low level of blood flow, especially in the flaccid state. Gene therapy approaches have focused on a number of signaling pathways that are crucial for penile erection, such as nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate, RhoA/Rho-kinase, growth factors, ion channels, peptides, and control of oxidative stress. CONCLUSIONS: The need for effective ED therapies in difficult-to-treat patients has encouraged investigators to seek novel modalities for the treatment of ED. Recent preclinical and clinical trials have demonstrated that gene therapy strategies may be feasible for these purposes.

The evolving role of testosterone in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Shabsigh R, Rajfer J, Aversa A, Traish AM, Yassin A, Kalinchenko SY, Buvat J
Int J Clin Pract. 2006 Sep;60(9):1087-92.

Hypogonadism may play a significant role in the pathophysiology of erectile dysfunction (ED). A threshold level of testosterone may be necessary for normal erectile function. Testosterone replacement therapy is indicated in hypogonadal patients and is beneficial in patients with ED and hypogonadism. Monotherapy with testosterone for ED is of limited effectiveness and may be most promising in young patients with hypogonadism and without vascular risk factors for ED. A number of laboratory and human studies have shown the combination of testosterone and other ED treatments, such as phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, to be beneficial in patients with ED and hypogonadism, who fail PDE5 inhibitor therapy alone. There is increasing evidence that combination therapy is effective in treating the symptoms of ED in patients for whom treatment failed with testosterone or PDE5 inhibitors alone. Testosterone replacement therapy has potentially evolved from a monotherapy for ED in cases of low testosterone, to a combination therapy with PDE5 inhibitors. Screening for hypogonadism may be useful in men with ED who fail prior PDE5 inhibitors, especially in populations at risk for hypogonadism such as type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome.

SSRI-Associated Sexual Dysfunction.
Balon R
Am J Psychiatry. 2006 Sep;163(9):1504-9.

Urological survey: Male and female sexual function and dysfunction; andrology.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Sep;176(3):1091-3.

Neuromodulatory therapy to improve erectile function recovery outcomes after pelvic surgery.
Burnett AL, Lue TF
J Urol. 2006 Sep;176(3):882-7.

PURPOSE: Erectile dysfunction is a recognized, common adverse consequence of radical prostatectomy as well as various other pelvic surgeries. While a host of management options have been considered to decrease this complication, neuromodulatory therapy has recently been advanced as an intervention that may be applied for this purpose. We evaluated concepts regarding the neuropathic basis for erectile dysfunction following pelvic surgery, principles for establishing neuromodulatory therapy in this clinical context, evidence from preclinical studies supporting neuromodulatory approaches as a therapeutic strategy and the progress of early clinical developments in this field. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The exercise principally consisted of a current literature search using the National Library of Medicine PubMed Services, a survey of recent abstract proceedings from national meetings relevant to the topic and an Internet online search for current information on federally and privately supported clinical trials specific to this topic. References were made to such key words as neuroprotection, nerve regeneration, nerve growth factors, neurotrophic factors, cavernous nerves, nerve guides and penile erection. RESULTS: Basic science research and clinical studies support the concept that erectile loss after pelvic surgery is frequently related to neuropathic effects, resulting in penile vascular impairment. An assortment of neurobiological studies using rodent models of cavernous nerve injury have shown nerve reconstitutive actions for a host of neurotrophic substances, including classic neurotrophins, growth hormone, cytokines and atypical neurotrophic mediators. Clinical trials of several proposed neuroprotective and neurotrophic applications have been done or are in progress. CONCLUSIONS: Erectile dysfunction is a well recognized and yet ineffectively averted complication of pelvic surgery. Neuromodulatory therapy offers a therapeutic approach for addressing the neuropathic changes of the penis that occurs in this context with the goal of maximally preserving erectile function postoperatively. While several specific neuromodulatory applications have gained interest for their potential benefit with pelvic surgery, determining their actual roles awaits the completion of controlled clinical trials.

Central Obesity is an Independent Predictor of Erectile Dysfunction in Older Men.
Riedner CE, Rhoden EL, Ribeiro EP, Fuchs SC
J Urol. 2006 Oct;176(4):1519-23.

PURPOSE: There is a growing body of evidence in the literature correlating erectile dysfunction to obesity. We investigated the correlation of different anthropometric indexes of central obesity to erectile dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed including 256 consecutive men 40 years old or older. All men completed the International Index of Erectile Function, and were evaluated routinely with a clinical history, physical examination and blood analysis for fasting serum glucose, lipid profile and serum testosterone. Anthropometric measures included body mass index, waist circumference, sagittal abdominal diameter, maximal abdominal circumference, and waist-hip, waist-thigh, waist-height, sagittal abdominal diameter-thigh and sagittal abdominal diameter-height indexes. RESULTS: In men 40 to 60 years old the different anthropometric indexes of central obesity were not correlated with the presence of erectile dysfunction (p >0.05). Men older than 60 years (41%, range 61 to 81) demonstrated an association among erectile dysfunction and waist-hip index (p = 0.04), waist-thigh index (p = 0.02), sagittal abdominal diameter (p = 0.03), sagittal abdominal diameter-height index (p = 0.02) and maximal abdominal circumference (p = 0.04). After logistic regression analysis an independent effect on the presence of erectile dysfunction was observed for waist-hip index (OR 8.56, 95% CI 1.44-50.73), sagittal abdominal diameter (OR 7.87, 95% CI 1.24-49.75), sagittal abdominal diameter-height index (OR 14.21, 95% CI 1.11-182.32), maximum abdominal circumference (OR 11.72, 95% CI 1.73-79.18) and waist circumference (OR 19.37, 95% CI 1.15-326.55). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that central obesity, assessed by several anthropometric indicators, is associated to the presence of erectile dysfunction in men older than 60 years. Sagittal abdominal diameter, sagittal abdominal diameter-height index, maximum abdominal circumference, waist circumference and waist-hip index were useful indicators to predict the presence of erectile dysfunction.

Sexual dysfunction in men with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome: improvement after trigger point release and paradoxical relaxation training.
Anderson RU, Wise D, Sawyer T, Chan CA
J Urol. 2006 Oct;176(4):1534-9.

PURPOSE: The impact of chronic pelvic pain syndrome on sexual function in men is underestimated. We quantified sexual dysfunction (ejaculatory pain, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory difficulties) in men with chronic pelvic pain syndrome and assessed the effects of pelvic muscle trigger point release concomitant with paradoxical relaxation training. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We treated 146 men with a mean age of 42 years who had had refractory chronic pelvic pain syndrome for at least 1 month with trigger point release/paradoxical relaxation training to release trigger points in the pelvic floor musculature. The Pelvic Pain Symptom Survey and National Institutes of Health-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index were used to document the severity/frequency of pain, urinary and sexual symptoms. A global response assessment was done to record patient perceptions of overall therapeutic effects at an average 5-month followup. RESULTS: At baseline 133 men (92%) had sexual dysfunction, including ejaculatory pain in 56%, decreased libido in 66%, and erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction in 31%. After trigger point release/paradoxical relaxation training specific Pelvic Pain Symptom Survey sexual symptoms improved an average of 77% to 87% in responders, that is greater than 50% improvement. Overall a global response assessment of markedly or moderately improved, indicating clinical success, was reported by 70% of patients who had a significant decrease of 9 (35%) and 7 points (26%) on the National Institutes of Health-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (p <0.001). Pelvic Pain Symptom Survey sexual scores improved 43% with a markedly improved global response assessment (p <0.001) but only 10% with moderate improvement (p = 0.96). CONCLUSIONS: Sexual dysfunction is common in men with refractory chronic pelvic pain syndrome but it is unexpected in the mid fifth decade of life. Application of the trigger point release/paradoxical relaxation training protocol was associated with significant improvement in pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, libido, ejaculatory pain, and erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction.

July

Sexual health and the gender gap.
Pauls RN
Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2006 Feb;17(2):99.

Initiating hormonal contraception.
Lesnewski R, Prine L
Am Fam Physician. 2006 Jul 1;74(1):10 5-12.

Most women can safely begin taking hormonal birth control products immediately after an office visit, at any point in the menstrual cycle. Because hormonal contraceptives do not accelerate cervical neoplasia or interfere with cervical cytology, women who have not had a recent Papanicolaou smear can begin using hormonal contraceptives before the test is performed. After childbirth, most women can begin using progestin-only contraceptives immediately. Estrogen-containing methods can safely be initiated six weeks to six months postpartum for women who are breastfeeding their infants and three weeks postpartum for women who are not breastfeeding. Women can begin any appropriate contraceptive method immediately following an early abortion. Delaying contraception may decrease adherence. Physicians can help patients improve their use of birth control by providing anticipatory guidance about the most common side effects, giving comprehensive information about available choices, and honoring women's preferences. An evidence-based, flexible, patient-centered approach to initiating contraception may help to lower the high rate of unintended pregnancy in the United States.

Women's perception of sexuality during pregnancy and after birth.
Gerda T, Josef H, Uwe L, Edgar P
Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol. 2006 Aug;46(4):282-7.

Pregnancy and birth mark a distinct period in the life of a woman. Hormonal alterations and bodily and social changes impact on women's physical well-being, mood, relationship and sexuality. Most existing research on sexuality during pregnancy focuses on the quantitative analysis of sexual activities, but neglects subjective experiences of women. To examine women's sexual needs, sexual activities, subjective importance of sexuality and contentment with sex life, focusing on the changes over the course of pregnancy and post-partum. Twenty-six women completed a series of three extensive interviews in early and late pregnancy, as well as 6 months post-partum. A semiqualitative approach, combining visual analogue scales and a semistructured interview with self-developed questions, was used. The statistical analysis revealed a significant decrease of perceived 'importance of sexuality', 'importance of sexual intercourse' and 'contentment with present sex life', from prepregnancy over early pregnancy to late pregnancy, which was followed by a slight increase in the post-partum period. Samples from the structured interviews provide a detailed insight into female experiences, perceptions and opinions, and demonstrate the high interindividual variability. Doctors can provide invaluable advice to women regarding the psychosexual changes and help them to understand the normal fluctuations in sexual interest during pregnancy and the post-partum.

The biology of human sex differences.
Stanford JB
N Engl J Med. 2006 Jul 6;355(1):98; author reply 98.

Penile prosthetic surgery and its role in the treatment of end-stage erectile dysfunction - an update.
Jain S, Terry TR
Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2006 Jul;88(4):343-8.

The treatment of erectile dysfunction has been revolutionised with the introduction of orally active phosphodiesterase inhibitors which are successful in 70-80% of men. However, there remain a group of men in whom conservative treatment fails and surgical insertion of a penile prosthesis is required. This type of surgery has in the past been associated with technical difficulties and a high complication rate. This has spurred numerous developments in prosthesis design and surgical technique with the field changing at a rapid pace. Perhaps the most significant is the use of antimicrobial coatings on prostheses that have been shown to reduce the infection rate significantly. This review highlights those developments reported in the last 5 years.

Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) experiences: an underestimated factor in perinatal care.
Leeners B, Neumaier-Wagner P, Quarg AF, Rath W
Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2006;85(8):971-6.

Background. Childhood sexual abuse can have several negative consequences on pregnancy, birth, and the early neonatal period. However, most obstetricians are not aware if their patients have a history of childhood sexual abuse. We therefore investigated childhood sexual abuse experiences in 226 women three to eight months after delivery of a healthy child. Methods. 415 women were approached to answer a self-administered questionnaire including obstetrical questions and questions focusing on abuse experiences. 320 women agreed to participate, 226 (69.1% of the women fulfilling inclusion criteria) of which returned a completed questionnaire. Sexual abuse was explored using a modified version of a questionnaire developed by Wyatt. The complete questionnaire was designed in cooperation with the German "Frauennotruf", a society providing care for victims of sexual abuse. Results. The prevalence of childhood sexual abuse was a minimum of 11.5% and a maximum of 14.6% if women who were not sure about such experiences during their childhood were included. Another 1.3% of the women had experienced sexual abuse as an adult. Lifetime sexual abuse prevalence was 12.8% and 15.9%, respectively. Of the women with an experience of childhood sexual abuse, 42.3% mentioned an ongoing abuse situation for at least six months. Conclusions. As approximately every 9th woman presenting for obstetrical care has experienced childhood sexual abuse, and as those experiences may have a negative impact on fetal and maternal well-being, adequate counseling models should be offered to victims of sexual abuse.

Increased sexual risk taking behavior among Swedish female university students: repeated cross-sectional surveys.
Larsson M, Tyden T
Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2006;85(8):966-70.

Background. The aim of this study was to perform a repeated cross-sectional study of female university students' sexual and contraceptive behavior, as well as experiences of pornography and sexual harassment and compare the findings with those from earlier studies. Methods. Waiting-room questionnaires to female university students (n=315) visiting a Student Health Centre in Sweden. Similar investigations had been performed earlier, which enabled comparisons. Results. Almost all women (98%) had experienced intercourse and giving oral sex (94%). Condoms were most often used at first intercourse (72%) and combined oral contraceptives at latest intercourse (67%). The ever use of emergency contraceptive pills had increased from 22% to 52% over five years and there was a tendency towards more risk-taking behavior with more sexual partners (mean 5.4 in 1999 and mean 7.4 in 2004), more experience of first-date intercourse without a condom (37-45%), and more self-reported sexually transmitted infections (14-21%). The proportion of women who had undergone an abortion remained stable (6%) and fewer women reported ever being sexually harassed in 2004 compared to 1999. Conclusions. In conclusion, contraceptive use remained stable over time, but there was a trend towards more risky sexual behavior with more sexual partners, more unprotected first-date intercourse, and more self-reported sexually transmitted infections. Induced abortions, however, had not increased, but the use of emergency contraceptive pills had more than doubled in the five years between 1999 and 2004.

Female genital mutilation: whose problem, whose solution?
Conroy RM
BMJ. 2006 Jul 15;333(7559):106-7.

Treatment of erectile dysfunction with chronic dosing of tadalafil.
McMahon CG
Eur Urol. 2006 Aug;50(2):215-7.

Approaches to screening for intimate partner violence in health care settings: a randomized trial.
MacMillan HL, Wathen CN, Jamieson E, Boyle M, McNutt LA, Worster A, Lent B, Webb M
JAMA. 2006 Aug 2;296(5):530-6.

CONTEXT: Screening for intimate partner violence (IPV) in health care settings has been recommended by some professional organizations, although there is limited information regarding the accuracy, acceptability, and completeness of different screening methods and instruments. OBJECTIVE: To determine the optimal method for IPV screening in health care settings. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cluster randomized trial conducted from May 2004 to January 2005 at 2 each of emergency departments, family practices, and women's health clinics in Ontario, Canada. PARTICIPANTS: English-speaking women aged 18 to 64 years who were well enough to participate and could be seen individually were eligible. Of 2602 eligible women, 141 (5%) refused participation. INTERVENTION: Participants were randomized by clinic day or shift to 1 of 3 screening approaches: a face-to-face interview with a health care provider (physician or nurse), written self-completed questionnaire, and computer-based self-completed questionnaire. Two screening instruments-the Partner Violence Screen (PVS) and the Woman Abuse Screening Tool (WAST)-were administered and compared with the Composite Abuse Scale (CAS) as the criterion standard. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The approaches were evaluated on prevalence, extent of missing data, and participant preference. Agreement between the screening instruments and the CAS was examined. RESULTS: The 12-month prevalence of IPV ranged from 4.1% to 17.7%, depending on screening method, instrument, and health care setting. Although no statistically significant main effects on prevalence were found for method or screening instrument, a significant interaction between method and instrument was found: prevalence was lower on the written WAST vs other combinations. The face-to-face approach was least preferred by participants. The WAST and the written format yielded significantly less missing data than the PVS and other methods. The PVS and WAST had similar sensitivities (49.2% and 47.0%, respectively) and specificities (93.7% and 95.6%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: In screening for IPV, women preferred self-completed approaches over face-to-face questioning; computer-based screening did not increase prevalence; and written screens had fewest missing data. These are important considerations for both clinical and research efforts in IPV screening.

June

Child abuse pediatrics: a new pediatric subspecialty.
Block RW, Palusci VJ
J Pediatr. 2006 Jun;148(6):711-2.

Treatment of premature ejaculation.
Riley A, Segraves RT
Int J Clin Pract. 2006 Jun;60(6):694-7.

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common problem, the treatment of which has received an increasing interest in recent years. Traditional management continues to be psychotherapy, with techniques such as the 'squeeze' and 'stop-start' most commonly employed. The application of local anaesthetics to the glans to delay ejaculation, first described over 60 years ago, continues to be used both in medical practice and as an 'over-the-counter' remedy. Over the years, a variety of psychopharmacological agents, especially antidepressants, have been described as treatments for PE. At the present time, the selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, licensed for other indications, emerge as the most effective agents to delay ejaculation, but none are licensed for the treatment of PE. There appears to be a high relapse rate irrespective of the mode of therapy used.

Intimate partner violence victimization prior to and during pregnancy among women residing in 26 U.S. states: associations with maternal and neonatal health.
Silverman JG, Decker MR, Reed E, Raj A
Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Jul;195(1):140-8. Epub 2006 Apr 21.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a population-based assessment of associations of intimate partner violence in the year prior to and during pregnancy with maternal and neonatal morbidity. STUDY DESIGN: Data from women giving birth in 26 U.S. states and participating in the 2000 to 2003 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (n = 118,579) were analyzed. RESULTS: Women reporting intimate partner violence in the year prior to pregnancy were at increased risk for high blood pressure or edema (adjusted odds ratio 1.37-1.40), vaginal bleeding (adjusted odds ratio 1.54-1.66), severe nausea, vomiting or dehydration (adjusted odds ratio 1.48-1.63), kidney infection or urinary tract infection (adjusted odds ratio 1.43-1.55), hospital visits related to such morbidity (adjusted odds ratio 1.45-1.48), and delivery preterm (adjusted odds ratio 1.37), of a low-birthweight infant (adjusted odds ratio 1.17), and an infant requiring intensive care unit care (adjusted odds ratio 1.31-1.33) compared with those not reporting intimate partner violence. Women reporting intimate partner violence during but not prior to pregnancy experienced higher rates of a subset of these concerns. CONCLUSION: Women experiencing intimate partner violence both prior to and during pregnancy are at risk for multiple poor maternal and infant health outcomes, suggesting prenatal risks to children from mothers' abusive partners.

Impact of an adolescent sex education program that was implemented by an academic medical center.
Sulak PJ, Herbelin SJ, Fix DD, Kuehl TJ
Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Jul;195(1):78-84. Epub 2006 Apr 21.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess changes in knowledge and attitudes before and after a large-scale sex education curriculum that was implemented by an academic medical center. STUDY DESIGN: Middle school students were surveyed regarding demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. All grade levels at each campus completed a presurvey on the same day before any of the 2-week curricula were received. Postsurveys were taken on the day after the last lesson. RESULTS: Surveys were completed by 26,125 students before and 24,550 students after a sex education curriculum. Knowledge improved (P < .001) for all grades, based on paired comparisons for each group. Although most students chose the option to wait until after high school graduation to have sex, significantly more students held this opinion after the program (P < .0001). Variables that were associated with the attitude of delaying sex included making a pledge (odds ratio, 7.4; 95% CI, 6.7-8.2), original parents still married (odds ratio, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1-2.1), attending weekly religious/church services (odds ratio, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.3-1.6), and watching 0 to 2 hours of television on school nights (odds ratio, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.2-1.5). Self-reported "less than C" students showed the least knowledge improvement and the belief that teens should "have sex whenever they want" at a greater percentage than other academic levels. CONCLUSION: Implementation of a sex education curriculum by an academic medical center to adolescents resulted in increased knowledge and a shift in attitude toward delaying sexual activity.

Erectile dysfunction and testosterone.
Ammar H, Malani AK
Mayo Clin Proc. 2006 Jun;81(6):853; author reply 853-4.

Effect of coitus at term on length of gestation, induction of labor, and mode of delivery.
Tan PC, Andi A, Azmi N, Noraihan MN
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Jul;108(1):134-40.

OBJECTIVE: To determine coital incidence at term and to estimate its effect on labor onset and mode of delivery. METHODS: Healthy women with uncomplicated pregnancies and established gestational age were recruited to keep a diary of coital activity from 36 weeks of gestation until birth and to answer a short questionnaire. Two hundred women with complete coital diaries were available for analysis. Outcome measures include coitus, postdate pregnancy (defined as pregnancy beyond the estimated date of confinement), gestational length of at least 41 weeks, labor induction at 41 weeks of gestation, and mode of delivery RESULTS: Reported sexual intercourse at term was influenced by a woman's perception of coital safety, her ethnicity, and her partner's age. After multivariable logistic regression analysis controlling for the women's ethnicity, education, occupation, perception of coital safety, and partner's age, coitus at term remained independently associated with reductions in postdate pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.13-0.58, P = .001), gestational length of at least 41 weeks (AOR 0.10, 95% CI 0.04-0.28, P < .001), and requirement for labor induction at 41 weeks of gestation (AOR 0.08, 95% CI 0.03-0.26, P < .001). At 39 weeks of gestation, 5 (95% CI 3.3-10.3) couples needed to have intercourse to avoid one woman having to undergo labor induction at 41 weeks of gestation. Coitus at term had no significant effect on operative delivery (adjusted P = .15). CONCLUSION: Reported sexual intercourse at term was associated with earlier onset of labor and reduced requirement for labor induction at 41 weeks. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II-2.

Abdominal electrical stimulation rescues failures to penile vibratory stimulation in men with spinal cord injury: a report of two cases.
Kafetsoulis A, Ibrahim E, Aballa TC, Goetz LL, Lynne CM, Brackett NL
Urology. 2006 Jun 27; 68(1):204.e9-204.e11.

Most men with spinal cord injury are anejaculatory. To retrieve their semen for insemination, the procedure of penile vibratory stimulation is recommended over electroejaculation. Some men with spinal cord injury, however, cannot ejaculate with penile vibratory stimulation. We present 2 cases in which a simple, over-the-counter abdominal muscle stimulator rescued failures to penile vibratory stimulation. Use of this safe, easy, and inexpensive method may prevent some patients from undergoing more expensive, more invasive sperm retrieval methods such as electroejaculation or surgical sperm retrieval from the testis or epididymis.

To circ or not to circ: indications, risks, and alternatives to circumcision in the pediatric population with phimosis.
Steadman B, Ellsworth P
Urol Nurs. 2006 Jun;26(3):181-94.

Summary Although there continues to be considerable debate over the merits of circumcision, it is clear that preservation of the pediatric foreskin, even in the presence of phimosis, is a viable option. Steroid topical cream is a painless, less-complicated, and more economical alternative to circumcision for treating phimosis. Success rates are quite high, especially when patient selection is appropriate and parents are adequately instructed on application. In those children in whom topical steroid therapy has failed, there remains a variety of foreskin-preserving surgical options for treating phimosis. Compared to circumcision, these less-invasive techniques are associated with lower morbidities and cost. Furthermore, depending on the tissue-preserving technique used, satisfactory cosmesis is also achieved. Thus, those males who were not circumcised at birth now have medical and surgical options, which will decrease the likelihood of requiring circumcision at an older age. As health care providers in the United States see more and more uncircumcised male children, it is important for these children and their parents to understand the natural history of physiologic phimosis. Additionally, it is the responsibility of health care providers to present the management options available for the treatment of the persistent nonretractile foreskin and/or pathologic phimosis. These options are particularly important for those individuals whose religious, cultural, or personal preference is to retain the foreskin.

Genital piercings: what is known and what people with genital piercings tell us.
Armstrong ML, Caliendo C, Roberts AE
Urol Nurs. 2006 Jun;26(3):173-9.

General and subjective information about those who chose to obtain genital piercings was presented. Particularly, the assumptions made from the literature are refuted by objective and subjective data collected from intimately pierced individuals themselves. Professional nurses must not base practice decisions on assumptions but on the "best evidence with clinical experience, research, (as well as) associated patient values" (Sackett, Strauss, Richardson, Rosenberg, & Haynes, 2001, p. 10). Thus, providing clinically competent care is driven by the latest knowledge and evidence from research and patient sources. Data found here provide further empirical evidence that may help to improve client outcomes by advancing evidence-based nursing practice in relation to people with genital piercings.

Male and female sexual function and dysfunction; andrology.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Jul;176(1):237-9.

Arousing properties of the vulvar epithelium.
Martin-Alguacil N, Schober J, Kow LM, Pfaff D
J Urol. 2006 Aug;176(2):456-62.

PURPOSE: The initiation of genital tactile stimulation is regarded as a precursor to sexual arousal and perhaps in women it is the most easily recognized initiator of central nervous system arousal. Unfortunately little published material details the specific mechanisms preceding arousal, beginning at the epithelial level, which are the sensory precursors to arousal. Little is known about its cutaneous receptors, nerves and the other histochemical properties of this epithelial tissue that contribute to sexual arousal. Sexual sensitivity evaluations target female genital somatosensory pathways for cutaneous sensation by testing evoked potentials of nerves, hot/cold and vibratory sensory discrimination. The anatomical bases of these several sensibilities form a subject for future investigation. We reviewed the known influences and mechanisms responsible for the arousing properties of the epithelium in the female external genitalia as well neural pathways associated with sexual arousal originating from the vulvar epithelium. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A comprehensive review was done of published, relevant clinical and histological material in human and nonhuman vertebrate studies. RESULTS: Tactile stimulation of the vulvar epithelium initiates changes suggesting complex integrative mechanisms. Influences of skin temperature, hormonal environment, mechanical tissue compliance and inflammation as well as the large number of transmitters and neuropeptides involved in peripheral pathways serving female sexual arousal speak of a direct sensory role. CONCLUSIONS: Genital epithelial cells may actively participate in sensory function to initiate sexual arousal by expressing receptors and releasing neurotransmitters in response to stimuli, resulting in epithelial-neuronal interactions.

Brain processing of audiovisual sexual stimuli inducing penile erection: a positron emission tomography study.
Tsujimura A, Miyagawa Y, Fujita K, Matsuoka Y, Takahashi T, Takao T, Matsumiya K, Osaki Y, Takasawa M, Oku N, Hatazawa J, Kaneko S, Okuyama A
J Urol. 2006 Aug;176(2):679-83.

PURPOSE: Penile erection is dependent on commands from the central nervous system. Although basic studies of animals and neuroimaging studies of humans have been conducted to identify key brain regions associated with sexual arousal, to our knowledge no reliable studies of the first excitation phase of sexual arousal leading to penile erection have been reported. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We used H(2)(15)O-positron emission tomography to analyze regional cerebral blood flow just before penile erection in heterosexual volunteers. The subjects viewed 3 different types of audiovisual materials-sexually explicit clips, nonsexual neutral clips and dynamic mosaic image control clips-presented in random order, and penile rigidity was monitored in real time with a RigiScan(R) Plus device. Positron emission tomography scanning was initiated simultaneously when each clip was started, and images obtained when the subjects showed appropriate penile response were analyzed and compared. RESULTS: The advanced audiovisual cortices and cerebellar vermis in the right hemisphere were activated for sexually explicit-dynamic mosaic image control clip contrast, and only the right middle frontal gyrus was activated for sexually explicit- nonsexual neutral clip contrast. Several primary visual and audio regions were activated for dynamic mosaic image control-sexually explicit clip contrast and nonsexual neutral-sexually explicit clip contrast. CONCLUSIONS: We speculate that advanced audiovisual activity with imagination, not primary visual and audio activity, occurs when men experience sexual arousal inducing penile erection. Furthermore, the cerebellar vermis may be a key region for induction of penile erection in humans.

Condom use and the risk of genital human papillomavirus infection in young women.
Winer RL, Hughes JP, Feng Q, O'Reilly S, Kiviat NB, Holmes KK, Koutsky LA
N Engl J Med. 2006 Jun 22;354(25):2645-54.

BACKGROUND: To evaluate whether the use of male condoms reduces the risk of male-to-female transmission of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, longitudinal studies explicitly designed to evaluate the temporal relationship between condom use and HPV infection are needed. METHODS: We followed 82 female university students who reported their first intercourse with a male partner either during the study period or within two weeks before enrollment. Cervical and vulvovaginal samples for HPV DNA testing and Papanicolaou testing were collected at gynecologic examinations every four months. Every two weeks, women used electronic diaries to record information about their daily sexual behavior. Cox proportional-hazards models were used to evaluate risk factors for HPV infection. RESULTS: The incidence of genital HPV infection was 37.8 per 100 patient-years at risk among women whose partners used condoms for all instances of intercourse during the eight months before testing, as compared with 89.3 per 100 patient-years at risk in women whose partners used condoms less than 5 percent of the time (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.3; 95 percent confidence interval, 0.1 to 0.6, adjusted for the number of new partners and the number of previous partners of the male partner). Similar associations were observed when the analysis was restricted to high-risk and low-risk types of HPV and HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18. In women reporting 100 percent condom use by their partners, no cervical squamous intraepithelial lesions were detected in 32 patient-years at risk, whereas 14 incident lesions were detected during 97 patient-years at risk among women whose partners did not use condoms or used them less consistently. CONCLUSIONS: Among newly sexually active women, consistent condom use by their partners appears to reduce the risk of cervical and vulvovaginal HPV infection.

Sexually transmitted diseases 2006: a dermatologist's view.
Rosen T
Cleve Clin J Med. 2006 Jun;73(6):537-8, 542, 544-5 passim.

Despite the downturn in the incidence of many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), some--particularly genital herpes and genital warts--are epidemic, and syphilis is seeing a resurgence. This article covers how to recognize, diagnose, and manage common STDs and how their presentation and treatment differ in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.

Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent among men with chronic hepatitis C virus infection and negatively impacts health-related quality of life.
Danoff A, Khan O, Wan DW, Hurst L, Cohen D, Tenner CT, Bini EJ
Am J Gastroenterol. 2006 Jun;101(6):1235-43.

OBJECTIVES: Although sexual dysfunction has been reported in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, little is known about this association. The aims of this study were to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among men with chronic HCV infection and to evaluate the impact of sexual dysfunction on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). METHODS: We prospectively enrolled 112 HCV positive men and 239 HCV negative controls, and all patients completed validated questionnaires to assess sexual function (Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory [BMSFI]), depression (Beck Depression Inventory), and HRQOL (Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36). The BMSFI assessed sexual drive, erection, ejaculation, sexual problem assessment, and overall sexual satisfaction. RESULTS: HCV positive men had significantly more sexual dysfunction than control subjects across all five domains of the BMFSI. In addition, HCV-infected men were significantly more likely than controls to not be sexually satisfied (53.6% vs 28.9%, p<0.001) and this remained statistically significant after adjusting for age, race, and other potential confounding variables (OR=3.36; 95% CI, 1.59-7.13). In the 241 individuals without depression, HCV positive men were significantly more likely to not be sexually satisfied as compared with control subjects (47.5% vs 11.0%, p<0.001). HCV-infected men who were not sexually satisfied scored significantly worse in six of eight domains of HRQOL as compared with HCV-infected men who were sexually satisfied. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in men with chronic HCV infection, is independent of depression, and is associated with a marked reduction in HRQOL.

Hardness evaluation of penile prostheses.
Wang SJ, Chen KK, Lin AT, Young ST, Chang LS
Int J Urol. 2006 May;13(5):569-72.

AIM: This work investigates the hardness and buckling force of penile prostheses to further understand the rigidity of penile prostheses before and after implantation. METHODS: Evaluated herein are four prosthetic samples (three inflatable, one semi-rigid), five real prostheses (one inflatable, four semi-rigid), and one prosthesis after implantation. The hardness is measured with a Shore Durimeter by pressing the tester's indentor to the surface of the specimen. A volunteer with inflatable prosthesis implantation is evaluated with respect to penile hardness versus various numbers of pumping. The buckling force of the prosthesis is also determined by a push-pull gauge and a specially designed sampling table. RESULTS: Results in this study demonstrate that although the inflatable prosthesis could only be pumped to a certain amount of hardness, hardness and buckling force correlate well with each other. After reaching the hardness limit, prostheses can even be pumped a further few times. However, continuous pumping only puts more tension on the prosthetic material without increasing hardness and could induce mechanical failure of the prosthesis. Results also indicate that the buckling force decreases with increasing length of the semirigid prostheses, and increases when the prosthesis has a larger diameter. CONCLUSION: This mechanical measurement of rigidity in penile prostheses could provide more information to clinicians about the penile prosthesis before surgical implantation, and to patients about prosthesis usage after implantation.

A review of gastrointestinal foreign bodies.
Ayantunde AA, Oke T
Int J Clin Pract. 2006 Jun;60(6):735-9.

Gastrointestinal tract (GIT) foreign bodies represent a significant clinical problem in the Emergency Department, causing a high degree of financial burden, morbidity and mortality. A large variety of foreign bodies are accidentally ingested or inserted into the GIT in different age groups. This a retrospective review of 38 patients who presented to the Emergency Department with GIT foreign bodies between January 2001 and December 2004. Computer database and case note search of patients' personal data, nature of the foreign objects and mode of entry to the GIT were recorded. There were 30 males and eight females (M : F ratio of 3.75:1) with an age range of 10 months to 87 years (median age 25.5 years). Foreign body ingestion/insertion was accidental in 14 patients, deliberate in 11, for anal erotism in 11 and as a result of assault in two cases. The median time before presentation was 12 h, and the mean length of hospital stay was 1.7 days. Treatment was conservative in 15 patients; five patients had gastroscopic retrieval; 15 patients underwent examination under anaesthetic, retrieval and proctosigmoidoscopy and three patients underwent laparotomy for impacted foreign bodies. GIT foreign body ingestion or insertion is common; however, majority of cases can be successfully managed conservatively.

Role of transrectal ultrasonography in the evaluation of azoospermic men with low-volume ejaculate.
Raviv G, Mor Y, Levron J, Shefi S, Zilberman D, Ramon J, Madgar I
J Ultrasound Med. 2006 Jul;25(7):825-9.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the incidence of distal ejaculatory system defects with transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) among patients evaluated for azoospermia. METHODS: Forty-two patients with low-volume ejaculate and azoospermia were evaluated by physical examination, serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone level determination, karyotyping, selective screening for cystic fibrosis mutations, and TRUS. RESULTS: On physical examination, in 29 patients (69%), either 1 (12 patients) or both (17 patients) of the vasa deferentia could not be palpated. In the group of 17 patients with bilateral involvement of the vasa deferentia, the ultrasonographic imaging universally showed bilateral absence or hypoplasia of the seminal vesicles with bilateral agenesis of the vasa deferentia and nonvisualization of both ejaculatory ducts. In the patients with a unilateral abnormality on physical examination, the ultrasonographic imaging showed absence of the ipsilateral seminal vesicle in 7 patients and the hypoplastic seminal vesicle in 5. In the group of 13 patients with normal physical examination findings, a variety of obstructive causes were diagnosed by TRUS examination. CONCLUSIONS: According to this study, TRUS appears to be a sensitive method for evaluating the anatomy of the distal ejaculatory system. Its safety and low costs make it a good alternative to the other invasive and expensive methods.

The effect of dairy product ingestion on human immunodeficiency virus-related diarrhea in a sample of predominantly gay men: a randomized, controlled, double-blind, crossover trial.
Tinmouth J, Kandel G, Tomlinson G, Walmsley S, Steinhart AH, Glazier R
Arch Intern Med. 2006 Jun 12;166(11):1178-83.

BACKGROUND: In the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) era, chronic diarrhea remains common in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) illness. Empirical lactose avoidance is often advised despite lack of evidence of benefit in a population at risk for osteopenia and malnutrition. METHODS: The a priori hypothesis was that moderate lactose ingestion would not worsen diarrhea in this population. We used a double-blind, noninferiority, randomized crossover trial in a community setting of primary and tertiary care HIV clinics. The participants all had chronic diarrhea and were a volunteer sample of 49 predominantly white HIV-infected men who have sex with men. They ingested 240 mL of low-fat milk (12 g of lactose) and lactose-free milk during 2 separate study periods. The primary outcome was mean difference in stool weight between the 2 study periods in the 8 hours after milk ingestion. Lactose was judged not to worsen diarrhea if this difference did not exceed 167 g in 8 hours with 95% certainty. RESULTS: Forty-eight (98%) of 49 participants were male. Median age, CD4 cell count, and viral load were 42 years (range, 20-62 years), 390 cells/mL (range, 20-1100 cells/mL), and 112 copies/mL (range, <50 to >500,000 copies/mL), respectively. Thirty-nine participants (80%) were taking HAART medication. Ten participants (20%) were lactase deficient. The mean difference in stool weight between the 2 study periods was -41.3 g/8 h (upper 95% confidence limit, -13.5 g) for the entire group and +11.3 g/8 h (upper 95% confidence limit, +47.4 g) for the lactase-deficient group. CONCLUSIONS: Moderate lactose ingestion does not worsen diarrhea in HIV-infected persons with chronic diarrhea, regardless of lactase status. Therefore, avoidance of modest quantities of milk may not be justified in this population.

May

Defining association between sleep apnea syndrome and erectile dysfunction.
Teloken PE, Smith EB, Lodowsky C, Freedom T, Mulhall JP
Urology. 2006 May;67(5):1033-7.

OBJECTIVES: To conduct a study using validated sexual function and sleepiness inventories to define whether sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) is associated with erectile dysfunction and whether any correlation exists between the severity of SAS and the severity of erectile dysfunction. Previous work has suggested that sleep disorders are associated with erectile dysfunction. METHODS: Men presenting to a sleep clinic with symptoms consistent with SAS were given the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and an erectile dysfunction risk factor inventory, the International Index of Erectile Function. A database was constructed and statistical analysis conducted to define the correlation between the two entities. RESULTS: A total of 50 men met the criteria for inclusion. Of the 50 men, 60% had abnormal Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores and 80% of these patients had erectile dysfunction as determined by inventory scores compared with 20% of the men with normal Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores. There were statistically significant differences between men with normal and abnormal sleepiness scores for the total and erectile function domain of the International Index of Erectile Function. The correlation between the severity of the sleepiness and the severity of erectile dysfunction was good (r = -0.80, P = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS: Men presenting with symptoms consistent with SAS have a significant risk of erectile dysfunction, and the correlation between the severity of sleep apnea and the severity of erectile dysfunction is strong.

Editorial: partner dyspareunia (hispareunia).
Brubaker L
Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2006 Aug;17(4):311.

[Linguistic validation of the "Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for Women"]
Baudelot-Berrogain N, Roquejoffre S, Game X, Mallet R, Mouzin M, Bertrand N, Plante P, Sarramon JP, Rischmann P, Malavaud B
Prog Urol. 2006 Apr;16(2):174-83.

Application to the study of sexuality in a population of 93 French women. OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to linguistically validate the French version of the BISF-W (Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for Women) which provides a quantitative and qualitative assessment of female sexuality according to 7 dimensions. This version was then used to study the impact of recognized factors of sexual dysfunction on a control population. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The BISF-W a self-administered quality of life questionnaire developed by Rosen, was translated and linguistically validated. This questionnaire comprises 22 questions in 7 dimensions investigating all aspects of female sexuality: D1 (desire), D2 (arousal), D3 (frequency of sexual activity), D4 (receptiveness), 05 (pleasure, orgasm), D6 (relational satisfaction), D7 (problems affecting sexuality), Composite Score (CS) D1+D2+D3+D4+D5+D6+07. The French version was administered to a study population of 93 women: 49 derived from gynaecology or urology departments and 44 derived from the general population. We calculated and compared the scores of the various dimensions of the BISF-W according to factors able to modify sexuality, such as menopause, age or parity. RESULTS: The results of our study show an alteration of the various dimensions of sexuality in elderly patients (D2, D5, D6, CS; p<0.05) or postmenopausal patients (D2, D5, D6, CS, p<0.05) and in multiparous women. CONCLUSION: The French version of the BISF-W gives results in line with the literature and demonstrates changes of sexuality as a function of the above mentioned variables.

Sexual function following bowel vaginoplasty.
Hensle TW, Shabsigh A, Shabsigh R, Reiley EA, Meyer-Bahlburg HF
J Urol. 2006 Jun;175(6):2283-6.

PURPOSE: We review our 23-year experience with bowel vaginoplasty, with particular attention to postoperative quality of life and sexual function. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We reviewed the records of 57 patients who underwent bowel replacement vaginoplasty between 1980 and 2004. A total of 42 patients had the Mayer-Rokitansky syndrome, of whom 6 had varying forms of intersexuality, 6 had undergone surgery for pelvic malignancy, 1 had aphallia, 1 had cloacal exstrophy and 1 was the survivor of a conjoined twin separation. Replacement vaginoplasty was done using sigmoid colon in 39 patients, ileum in 9 and cecum in 9. Followup ranged from 18 months to 24 years, with a mean of 8.8 years. Outcome was evaluated by retrospective chart review, and the FSDQ, a validated, IRB approved instrument, was used to evaluate postoperative sexual function. RESULTS: Among the 57 patients postoperative sexual function was evaluated in 44, 9 were lost to followup and 4 were considered too young for evaluation. Of the 44 patients 36 responded to the FSDQ, 6 refused and 2 were unable to complete the questionnaire adequately. Of the 36 patients who responded 15 were married and 31 were sexually active. On a scale of 0 to 5, 28 patients (78%) reported sexual desire, 33% sexual arousal, 33% sexual confidence and 28 (78%) sexual satisfaction. In addition, 20 patients (56%) reported frequent orgasms, 8 (22%) occasional orgasms and 8 (22%) no orgasms. A total of 32 patients (89%) reported adequate lubrication for intercourse and 2 reported dyspareunia. Two of the 36 patients performed home dilation and required estrogen suppositories. A total of 34 patients used home douching and 20 required pads for mucus production. CONCLUSIONS: It appears that isolated bowel segments provided excellent tissue for vaginal replacement. For technical reasons we believe that colonic segments, particularly sigmoid, are preferable to small bowel. Sexual function following bowel vaginoplasty appears to be adequate and durable.

Prediction of postoperative sexual function after nerve sparing radical retropubic prostatectomy.
Michl UH, Friedrich MG, Graefen M, Haese A, Heinzer H, Huland H
J Urol. 2006 Jul;176(1):227-31.

PURPOSE: Preservation of sexual function is one of the main objectives in radical prostatectomy. We assessed possible predictive factors for postoperative sexual function including preoperative International Index of Erectile Function score, age and extent of nerve sparing procedures for more precise preoperative counseling of patients undergoing radical prostatectomy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between January 2000 and December 2001 a total of 694 patients with clinically organ confined prostate cancer underwent nerve sparing radical prostatectomy. Preoperative erectile function was assessed with the International Index of Erectile Function score. After at least 12 months of followup patients were asked to answer the International Index of Erectile Function and Quality of Life Questionnaire C 30 via mail. RESULTS: A total of 411 patients responded to the questionnaire, 122 of whom underwent unilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy and 289 underwent bilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy. Data on preoperative and postoperative International Index of Erectile Function scores were available for 389 patients. Data on the International Index of Erectile Function and the postoperative Quality of Life Questionnaire C 30 were available for 382 patients. The median decrease in International Index of Erectile Function score was 7 points. Patients undergoing unilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy had a significantly stronger decrease in International Index of Erectile Function score compared to patients undergoing the bilateral nerve sparing procedure (12 vs 6 points). Preoperative International Index of Erectile Function score and extent of nerve sparing (unilateral vs bilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy) were significantly associated with better postoperative sexual function whereas age was not. Based on preoperative International Index of Erectile Function score, surgical technique and age, the likelihood of postoperative satisfactory erectile function can be defined preoperatively. CONCLUSIONS: We confirmed the impact of the extent of nerve sparing (unilateral vs bilateral nerve sparing radical prostatectomy) and highlighted the effect of preoperative erectile function as measured by the International Index of Erectile Function and age at surgery on postoperative sexual function. Our data can be used for counseling patients undergoing radical nerve sparing prostatectomy regarding recovery of erectile function.

Erectile dysfunction as a predictor of the metabolic syndrome in aging men: results from the massachusetts male aging study.
Kupelian V, Shabsigh R, Araujo AB, O'donnell AB, McKinlay JB
J Urol. 2006 Jul;176(1):222-6.

PURPOSE: The metabolic syndrome, characterized by central obesity, insulin dysregulation, abnormal lipids and borderline hypertension, is a precursor state for cardiovascular disease. We determined whether erectile dysfunction is predictive of the metabolic syndrome. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were obtained from the Massachusetts Male Aging Study, a population based prospective cohort observed at 3 points during approximately 15 years (T(1)-1987 to 1989, T(2)-1995 to 1997, T(3)-2002 to 2004). The metabolic syndrome was defined by using a modification of the Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines. The association between erectile dysfunction and the metabolic syndrome was assessed using relative risks and 95% confidence intervals estimated using Poisson regression models. RESULTS: Analysis was conducted of 928 men without the metabolic syndrome at T(1). There were 293 men with incident metabolic syndrome, of which 56 had erectile dysfunction at baseline. Body mass index and the presence of 1 or 2 conditions constituting the metabolic syndrome definition were the strongest predictors of the metabolic syndrome. The association of erectile dysfunction with the metabolic syndrome (unadjusted RR 1.35, 95% CI 1.01-1.81) was modified by body mass index, with a stronger effect of erectile dysfunction in men with body mass index less than 25 (adjusted RR 2.09, 95% CI 1.09-4.02), and no erectile dysfunction and metabolic syndrome association in men with body mass index 25 or greater (adjusted RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.76-1.50). CONCLUSIONS: Erectile dysfunction was predictive of the metabolic syndrome only in men with body mass index less than 25. This finding suggests that erectile dysfunction may provide a warning sign and an opportunity for early intervention in men otherwise considered at lower risk for the metabolic syndrome and subsequent cardiovascular disease.

A prospective study of risk factors for erectile dysfunction.
Bacon CG, Mittleman MA, Kawachi I, Giovannucci E, Glasser DB, Rimm EB
J Urol. 2006 Jul;176(1):217-21.

PURPOSE: We examined the impact of obesity, physical activity, alcohol use and smoking on the development of erectile dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Subjects included 22,086 United States men 40 to 75 years old in the Health Professionals Followup Study cohort who were asked to rate their erectile function for multiple periods on a questionnaire mailed in 2000. Men who reported good or very good erectile function and no major chronic disease before 1986 were included in the analyses. RESULTS: Of men who were healthy and had good or very good erectile function before 1986, 17.7% reported incident erectile dysfunction during the 14-year followup. Obesity (multivariate relative risk 1.9, 95% CI 1.6-2.2 compared to men of ideal weight in 1986) and smoking (RR 1.5, 95% CI 1.3-1.7) in 1986 were associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction, while physical activity (RR 0.7, 95% CI 0.7-0.8 comparing highest to lowest quintile of physical activity) was associated with a decreased risk of erectile dysfunction. For men in whom prostate cancer developed during followup, smoking (RR 1.4, 95% CI 1.0-1.9) was the only lifestyle factor associated with erectile dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS: Reducing the risk of erectile dysfunction may be a useful and to this point unexploited motivation for men to engage in health promoting behaviors. We found that obesity and smoking were positively associated, and physical activity was inversely associated with the risk of erectile dysfunction developing.

Sexual intercourse at term and onset of labor.
Schaffir J
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Jun;107(6):1310-4.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether sexual intercourse at term hastens the onset of labor and to observe its effect on cervical status. METHODS: Women with low-risk pregnancies at term were asked at each of their term prenatal visits whether they had engaged in penile-vaginal intercourse during the previous week. Delivery outcomes were compared between those women who were sexually active at term and those who were not. A Bishop score was assigned to each cervical examination at term, and the weekly results of the cervical examination were compared between women who were sexually active in the previous week and those who were not. RESULTS: Forty-seven (50.5%) of 93 women reported having had sexual intercourse at term. The gestational age at delivery of those women who were sexually active at term was greater than those who were not (39.9 weeks versus 39.3 weeks; P = .001). There was no difference in Bishop score between women who had sex in the previous week and those who had not. After adjusting for the effect of time, those who were sexually active the previous week had Bishop scores that were, on average, lower by 0.26 (95% confidence interval -1.26 to 0.74, P = .61) compared with those who abstained. CONCLUSION: Sexual intercourse at term is not associated with ripening of the cervix and does not hasten labor. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II-3.

April

Do transsexuals have micturition disorders?
Kuhn A, Hiltebrand R, Birkhauser M
Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2006 May 4;.

OBJECTIVE: Transsexualism occurs with an estimated prevalence of 2.4:100000 male-to-female (MTF) and 1:100000 female-to-male (FTM) transsexuals. As sex reassignment surgery involves surgery of the urethra and transsexuals are substituted life-long with the cross gender hormones there could possibly arise micturition disorders. Aim of the study was to determine if transsexuals have an increased risk of micturition disorders and if so which. STUDY DESIGN: Between January and July 2003 we examined 25 transsexuals whereof 18 were MTF and 7 were FTM transsexuals using King's Health Questionnaire, visual analogue scale for patient's well being, perineal and transabdominal ultrasound, urine dipstick and uroflow measurement. RESULTS: 17 out of 25 patients considered themselves very happy. In MTF transsexuals, a diverted stream, overactive bladder and stress urinary incontinence was a common problem. Prostate volume was small with 20g and palpation did not confirm and solid or suspicious lesions. None of the patients had significant residual urine but MTF transsexuals had a reduced urinary flow. We could not detect a current urinary tract infections in any of the patients. CONCLUSION: Transsexuals have an increased risk for the development of micturition disorders including stress urinary incontinence and overactive bladder compared to age-matched control groups and should be counselled preoperatively. Reasons for the development of incontinence might be surgery including pudendal nerve damage, hormonal reasons and ageing.

Sexual assault victims: Factors associated with follow-up care.
Ackerman DR, Sugar NF, Fine DN, Eckert LO
Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Apr 22;.

OBJECTIVE: This study was undertaken to describe patient, assault, and examination characteristics associated with compliance with follow-up in sexual assault victims. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive women presenting to an urban hospital after sexual assault over a 36-month period. We compared those who did and did not follow-up by using standardized history, examination, and data collection forms. RESULTS: Eight hundred twelve women met inclusion criteria; 288 (35.5%) attended follow-up. Young age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.70), assault at home (OR = 1.90), amnesia (OR = 1.80), alcohol use (OR = 1.55), genital trauma (OR = 1.55), and receipt of postexamination medications (OR = 1.87) were associated with greater follow-up; homelessness (OR = 0.30), psychiatric diagnosis (OR = 0.34), assault by an intimate partner (OR = 0.47), and cocaine use (OR = 0.29) with less. CONCLUSION: Although only 35.5% of sexual assault victims seek follow-up, we found many factors positively and negatively associated with this. These findings may inform care strategies designed to improve follow-up for women who are at risk for significant sequelae.

Erectile dysfunction and incidence of cardiovascular disease.
Kostis JB, Rosen RC, DeBusk R
JAMA. 2006 May 3;295(17):1999-2000; author reply 2000.

Women's Sexual Dysfunction: A Review of the "Surgical Landscape"
Salonia A, Briganti A, Deho F, Zanni G, Rigatti P, Montorsi F
Eur Urol. 2006 Mar 31;.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the impact of urogynaecologic surgery for stress urinary incontinence, oncologic pelvic surgery, and hysterectomy on women's overall sexual health. METHODS: We used Ovid and PubMed (updated January 2006) to conduct a literature electronic search on MEDLINE that included peer-reviewed English-language articles. We analysed all studies identified that provided any functional outcome data about urogynaecologic surgery for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence, radical cystectomy for bladder cancer, surgery for rectal cancer, and hysterectomy. Because of the substantial heterogeneity of outcome measures and follow-up intervals in case studies, we did not apply meta-analytic techniques to the data. RESULTS: Most studies showed that either urogynaecologic or oncologic pelvic surgery may have a significant impact on women's sexual health. Epidemiology varied widely among the studies and reported either improvement or impairment of postoperative sexual functioning, due to different definitions, study designs, and small cohorts of patients. An increasing number of studies have prospectively examined this issue and have found often controversial findings about the role of pelvic and perineal surgery in women's sexual health. CONCLUSIONS: Although numerous controversies exist, data demonstrate an overall positive impact of the surgical repair for stress urinary incontinence on resolution of coital incontinence, coupled with an improvement of overall sexual life. In contrast, genitourinary and rectal cancers are commonly associated with treatment-related sexual dysfunction, but few studies rigorously assessed women's postoperative sexual function after major oncologic pelvic surgery. Data about the functional outcome after hysterectomy are often contradictory. Adequately powered prospective clinical trials are needed.

Female Sexual Dysfunction after Pelvic Surgery: Is There a Place for Nerve-Sparing Surgery?
Vardi Y
Eur Urol. 2006 Apr 19;.

Reflections on a New Artificial Urinary Sphincter.
Montague DK
Eur Urol. 2006 Apr 19;.

Sexual activity, fertility and contraceptive use in middle-aged and older men: Men in Australia, Telephone Survey (MATeS).
Niederberger C
J Urol. 2006 May;175(5):1829.

Editorial: partner dyspareunia (hispareunia).
Brubaker L
Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2006 May 4;.

Sexual function after partial penectomy for penile cancer.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 May;175(5):1826.

Combination therapy: medicated urethral system for erection enhances sexual satisfaction in sildenafil citrate failure following nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 May;175(5):1825-6.

Pilot intervention to enhance sexual rehabilitation for couples after treatment for localized prostate carcinoma.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 May;175(5):1825.

Adjuvant radiotherapy is associated with increased sexual dysfunction in male patients undergoing resection for rectal cancer: a predictive model.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 May;175(5):1824-5.

Subclinical coronary artery atherosclerosis in patients with erectile dysfunction.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 May;175(5):1824.

Treatment of men complaining of short penis.
Morey AF
J Urol. 2006 May;175(5):1765-6.

March

Analysis of 649 cases of sexual assault.
Eyvazzadeh AD, Wong G
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Apr;107(4 Suppl):103S-4S.

Women's health 18 years after rupture of the anal sphincter during childbirth: II. Urinary incontinence, sexual function, and physical and mental health.
Otero M, Boulvain M, Bianchi-Demicheli F, Floris LA, Sangalli MR, Weil A, Irion O, Faltin DL
Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Mar 28;.

OBJECTIVE: We studied maternal health 18 years postpartum in women having sustained an anal sphincter tear and controls. STUDY DESIGN: We assessed symptoms with the short form of the urogenital distress inventory, the female sexual function index, and physical and mental health with the Short Form-12 summary scales. RESULTS: Women with a sphincter tear had no increased risk of urinary symptoms (54 of 251, 22%, versus 51 of 273, 19%, risk ratio 1.2, 95% confidence interval 0.8 to 1.6) or sexual symptoms (84 of 223, 38%, versus 90 of 230, 39%, risk ratio 1.0, 95% confidence interval 0.8 to 1.2). Their physical health was also similar to controls (mean score +/- SD, 47 +/- 7 versus 47 +/- 6), whereas their mental health was slightly lower (score 45 +/- 6 versus 46 +/- 6, difference 1, 95% confidence interval 0 to 2, P = .05). CONCLUSION: Women who sustained an anal sphincter tear have no more urinary or sexual symptoms 18 years after delivery.

Psychobiologic Correlates of the Metabolic Syndrome and Associated Sexual Dysfunction.
Corona G, Mannucci E, Schulman C, Petrone L, Mansani R, Cilotti A, Balercia G, Chiarini V, Forti G, Maggi M
Eur Urol. 2006 Mar 13;.

OBJECTIVES: The association of low testosterone level and erectile dysfunction (ED) with metabolic syndrome (MS) is receiving increasing attention. The present study determined the psychobiologic characteristics of sexual dysfunction (SD) associated with MS (as defined by the National Cholesterol Education Program's Adult Treatment Panel III criteria) in a series of 803 consecutive male outpatients. METHODS: Several hormonal, biochemical, and instrumental (penile Doppler ultrasound [PDU]) parameters were studied, along with general psychopathology scores (Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire modified [MHQ]). The Structured Interview on Erectile Dysfunction (SIEDY) was also applied. RESULTS: Among the 236 patients (29.4%) diagnosed as having a MS, 96.5% reported ED, 39.6% hypoactive sexual desire (HSD), 22.7% premature ejaculation, and 4.8% delayed ejaculation. Patients with MS were characterised by greater subjective (as assessed by SIEDY) and objective (as assessed by PDU) ED and by greater somatised anxiety than the rest of the sample. The prevalence of overt hypogonadism (total testosterone <8nM) was significantly higher in patients with MS. Among MS components, waist circumference and hyperglycaemia were the best predictors of hypogonadism. Hypogonadal patients with MS showed higher gonadotropin and lower free testosterone levels, suggesting a primary hypogonadism. Among patients with MS, hypogonadism was present in 11.9% and 3.8% in the rest of the sample (p<0.0001) and was associated with typical hypogonadism-related symptoms, such as hypoactive sexual desire, low frequency of sexual intercourse, and depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that MS is associated with a more severe ED and induces somatisation. Furthermore, MS is associated with a higher prevalence of hypogonadism in patients with SD. The presence of hypogonadism can further exacerbate the MS-associated sexual dysfunction, adding the typical hypogonadism-related symptoms (including HSD, 66.7%). Recognising MS associated with hypogonadism is important for both sexual and general health and its serious potential associated risks.

Type 5 Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors: Curing Erectile Dysfunction.
Hellstrom WJ, Kendirci M
Eur Urol. 2006 Mar 10;.

Neurovascular preservation in orthotopic cystectomy: impact on female sexual function.
Bhatt A, Nandipati K, Dhar N, Ulchaker J, Jones S, Rackley R, Zippe C
Urology. 2006 Mar 25;.

OBJECTIVES: The published data regarding female orthotopic cystectomy have focused primarily on urethral recurrence and urinary continence. In a new era of sexuality, evaluating postoperative sexual outcome has become a new surgical endpoint. In this study, we focused on the impact of neurovascular preservation after radical cystectomy and neobladder construction. METHODS: We assessed female sexuality in 13 patients after orthotopic cystectomy using a standardized questionnaire, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Six patients had undergone nerve-sparing cystectomy and seven had undergone contemporary non-nerve-sparing cystectomy. Intraoperatively, the tumor was deemed oncologically safe for neurovascular preservation. All 13 patients were sexually active preoperatively, were younger than 65 years old, had recurrence-free follow-up findings after 1 year, and had undergone no pelvic irradiation. The 19-item FSFI questionnaire analyzed six domains (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain) of sexual function. RESULTS: In the nerve-sparing group (mean age 55.9 years), the baseline and 12-month postoperative scores showed a minimal decline in results, with a total mean FSFI score of 24.5 versus 22.3, respectively. In analyzing each of the six domains, no significant decline or difference was observed. Conversely, in the non-nerve-sparing group (mean age 56.7 years), a significant decline or difference was found in the 12-month total mean FSFI scores between the baseline and postoperative FSFI scores (25.0 versus 11.0, respectively). In the non-nerve-sparing group, 6 of 7 patients ultimately discontinued sexual intercourse. CONCLUSIONS: Female sexual function was preserved in patients who received neurovascular preservation. In contrast, all domains of sexual function declined in patients who had undergone non-neurovascular preservation.

Impact of tension-free vaginal tape on sexual function: results of a prospective study.
Ghezzi F, Serati M, Cromi A, Uccella S, Triacca P, Bolis P
Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2006 Jan;17(1):54-9. Epub 2005 Jun 23.

The purpose of this study was to prospectively assess the impact of a TVT insertion for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) on coital incontinence and overall sexual life. Sexually active women with pure SUI and without concomitant pelvic organ prolapse scheduled for TVT procedure completed a sexual function questionnaire at baseline and 6 months after surgery. Fifty-three patients were enrolled. Preoperatively 23 (43.4%) women experienced urine leakage during intercourse, 21 (91%) during penetration and 2 (9%) on orgasm. The objective cure rate for SUI was 98%. Coital incontinence was cured in 20 of 23 patients (87%). Thirty-three (62.2%) women reported no change in sexual function after surgery and 18 (34%) reported an improvement. Of the latter, 17 (94%) were of those cured from coital incontinence. No significant difference in the incidence of dyspareunia was found postoperatively. Two patients (3.8%) reported intercourse to be worse following surgery, one because of a vaginal erosion and one cited de novo anorgasmia as the main reason.

The impact of pelvic organ prolapse on sexual function in women with urinary incontinence.
Ozel B, White T, Urwitz-Lane R, Minaglia S
Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2006 Jan;17(1):14-7. Epub 2005 Jun 22.

The aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) on sexual function in women with urinary incontinence (UI). In this retrospective, case-cohort study, we reviewed the medical records of all women evaluated for UI between March and November 2003. All patients completed the short forms of the Urogenital Distress Inventory, Incontinence Impact Questionnaire, and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire. Women with stage two or greater POP, as determined by the pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POPQ) system, were compared to women with stage 0 or 1 POP. Sixty-nine women with POP and 47 women without POP were included. Patient demographics did not differ between the two groups. Women with POP were significantly more likely to report absence of libido (53% versus 30%, P=0.02), lack of sexual excitement during intercourse (46% versus 27%, P=0.05), and that they rarely experienced orgasm during intercourse (49% versus 30%, P=0.05). In conclusion, women with POP in addition to UI are more likely to report decreased libido, decreased sexual excitement, and difficulty achieving orgasm during intercourse when compared to women with UI alone.

Sexual activity and lower urinary tract symptoms.
Moller LA, Lose G
Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2006 Jan;17(1):1
8-21. Epub 2005 Jul 29.
Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) have a profound impact on women's physical, social, and sexual well being. The LUTS are likely to affect sexual activity. Conversely, sexual activity may affect the occurrence of LUTS. The aims of the study were to elucidate to which extent LUTS affect sexual function and to which extent sexual function affect LUTS in an unselected population of middle-aged women in 1 year. A questionnaire was sent to 4,000 unselected women aged 40-60 years. All 2,284 women (57.1%) who completed a baseline questionnaire and a similar questionnaire 1-year later were included. Data comprised age, occurrence of LUTS, hormonal status, and sexual activity. A multiple conditional logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationship between sexual activity and LUTS adjusted for age and hormonal status. At baseline and 1-year later, 49 women (2.2%) had no sexual intercourse, and 298 women (13.0%) either ceased or resumed sexual relationship. Compared to women having sexual relationship, a statistically significant three to sixfold higher prevalence of LUTS was observed in women with no sexual relationship. In women who ceased sexual relationship an increase, although not statistically significant, in the de novo occurrence of most LUTS was observed. In women who resumed sexual relationship an insignificantly decrease in LUTS was observed. In women whose sexual activity was unchanged no change in the occurrence of LUTS was observed. Our study confirms a close association between sexual activity and the occurrence of LUTS. A hypothesis that sexual inactivity may lead to LUTS and vice versa cannot be rejected.

Female sexual dysfunction: principles of diagnosis and therapy.
Pauls RN, Kleeman SD, Karram MM
Obstet Gynecol Surv. 2005 Mar;60(3):196-205.

Female sexual dysfunction is a common health problem, affecting approximately 43% of women. Female sexual dysfunction is defined as disorders of libido, arousal, orgasm, and sexual pain that lead to personal distress or interpersonal difficulties. It is frequently multifactorial in etiology, with physiological and psychologic roots. Approaching female sexual dysfunction involves an open discussion with the patient, followed by a thorough physical examination and laboratory testing. Therapy consists of patient and partner education, behavior modification, and may include individualized pharmacotherapy. Ultimately, as awareness and research in the field grows, it is hoped that a better understanding of the physiology and pharmacology of the female sexual response will be achieved.

Bladder and sexual function following resection for rectal cancer in a randomized clinical trial of laparoscopic versus open technique.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Apr;175(4):1451-2.

Prevalence of male and female sexual dysfunction is high following surgery for rectal cancer.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Apr;175(4):1451-2.

Sexual dysfunction in women partners of men with erectile dysfunction.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Apr;175(4):1451.

Sexual activity and function in middle-aged and older women.
Addis IB, Van Den Eeden SK, Wassel-Fyr CL, Vittinghoff E, Brown JS, Thom DH
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Apr;107(4):755-64.

OBJECTIVE: Data on the sexual activity of middle-aged and older women are scant and vary widely. This analysis estimates the prevalence and predictors of sexual activity and function in a diverse group of women aged 40-69 years. METHODS: The Reproductive Risk Factors for Incontinence Study at Kaiser (RRISK) was a population-based study of 2,109 women aged 40-69 years who were randomly selected from long-term Kaiser Permanente members. Women completed self-report questionnaires on sexual activity, comorbidities, and general quality of life. Logistic and linear regression and proportional odds models were used when appropriate to identify correlates of sexual activity, frequency, satisfaction, and dysfunction. RESULTS: Mean age was 55.9 (+/- 8) years and nearly three fourths of the women were sexually active. Of the sexually active women, 60% had sexual activity at least monthly, approximately two thirds were at least somewhat satisfied, and 33% reported a problem in one or more domains. Monthly or more frequent sexual activity was associated with younger age, higher income, being in a significant relationship, a history of moderate alcohol use, and lower body mass index (BMI) (all P < .05). Satisfaction with sexual activity was associated with African-American race, lower BMI, and higher mental health score (all P < .05). More sexual dysfunction was associated with having a college degree or greater, poor health, being in a significant relationship, and a low mental health score (all P < .05). CONCLUSION: Middle-aged and older women engage in satisfying sexual activity, and one third reported problems with sexual function. Demographic factors as well as some issues associated with aging can adversely affect sexual frequency, satisfaction, and function. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: II-3.

When does a "less than perfect" sex life become female sexual dysfunction?
Gierhart BS
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Apr;107(4):750-1.

Sexual function in women after rectocele repair.
Novi JM, Bradley CS, Northington G, Mahmoud NN, Morgan MA, Arya LA
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Apr;107(4 Suppl):7S.

Adolescent Sexual Behavior: "Hooking up" and Its Clinical Implications.
George AJ, Waxman A, Scott C, Kimmel S
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Apr;107(4 Suppl):2S.

Vaginal maturation index and female sexual function.
Pauls RN, Mutema GK, Silva WA, Rooney C, Kleeman SD, Karram MM
Obstet Gynecol. 2006 Apr;107(4 Suppl):102S-3S.

Urinary incontinence occurring during intercourse: effect on sexual function in women.
LeCroy C
Urol Nurs. 2006 Feb;26(1):53-6.

Gender power and marital relationship as predictors of sexual dysfunction and sexual satisfaction among young married couples in rural China: a population-based study.
Lau JT, Yang X, Wang Q, Cheng Y, Tsui HY, Mui LW, Kim JH
Urology. 2006 Mar;67(3):579-85.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate associations between gender relationships and sexual dysfunction (SD) of younger married couples living in rural China. METHODS: An anonymous cross-sectional population-based survey study was conducted in a rural area in Hunan, China. A random sample of 298 couples were recruited. Self-reported SD, sexual satisfaction, and variables related to gender power and marital relationship were measured. RESULTS: Of the respondents, 28.2% and 45.6% of the husbands and wives were having at least one of the studied SDs, respectively. The results of the multivariate analyses showed that husbands not reporting a quality marital relationship (odds ratio [OR] 4.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.13 to 8.57), who mistrusted their wives (OR 9.14, 95% CI 4.22 to 19.78), who claimed themselves as the decision-maker regarding condom use (OR 2.41, 95% CI 1.20 to 4.85), and whose wife scored lower in the relationship control subscale of the sexual relationship power scale (OR 2.83, 95% CI 1.15 to 6.95) were more likely than other husbands to have at least one SD. Wives who were not trusted by their husbands (OR 2.94, 95% CI 1.39 to 6.25), whose husbands were more powerful than they were in general decision-making (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.14 to 3.43), and who scored lower in the relationship control subscale (OR 3.77, 95% CI 1.65 to 8.62) were more likely than other wives to have at least one SD. CONCLUSIONS: Gender relationships, including the quality of the marital relationship, mutual trust, decision-making, and relationship control, were significantly associated with SD. Gender inequality has been observed and needs to be taken into account in promoting sexual health among married couples living in rural China.

Positive Effect of Counseling and Dose Adjustment in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction who Failed Treatment with Sildenafil.
Gruenwald I, Shenfeld O, Chen J, Raviv G, Richter S, Cohen A, Vardi Y
Eur Urol. 2006 Feb 17;.

PURPOSE: Many patients with erectile dysfunction (ED) stop using sildenafil due to subjective failure. This study examined whether counseling and maximal dosing (100mg) could achieve better treatment compliance and could possibly improve treatment outcome. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients were recruited by newspaper advertisements and referred to 5 ED centers throughout the country. Details about their previous experiences with sildenafil were recorded and following an explicit explanation about the nature and action of the drug, were offered to enter the study. Instructions on drug use were provided during each visit in which four 100mg Sildenafil tablets were provided. Treatment outcomes were assessed by the international index of erectile function (IIEF) questionnaire after taking 4 and 8 tablets. In 2 ED centers a short video with sexual counseling content was added in between visits. RESULTS: The study cohort was comprised of 220 patients aged 27-88 years. The majority reported having received limited or no instructions on drug use when sildenafil was first prescribed. A significant increase in IIEF erectile function domain scores (EFDS) between visits 1,2 and 3 was observed (10.96+/-0.40, 16.73+/-0.51 and 17.82+/-0.55 mean+/-SE, respectively), with 23.6% of the study patients achieving normal erectile function at the end of the study. The parameters of age and initial severity of ED most influenced treatment success. CONCLUSIONS: Counseling and dose adjustment were directly influential in achieving an excellent response to a second trial of sildenafil in patients with ED who had previously failed treatment with the drug, and obviated their needing to seek more invasive measures.

Conservative treatment of reproductive and sexual function in young woman with squamous carcinoma of the vagina.
Cutillo G, Cignini P, Pizzi G, Vizza E, Micheli A, Arcangeli G, Sbiroli C
Gynecol Oncol. 2006 Apr 2;.

OBJECTIVE.: Primary squamous carcinoma of the vagina in young woman is extremely rare. Conservative management of both sexual and reproductive function poses challenging problems to gynecologic oncologists. METHODS.: Between January 2001 and December 2004, four women under 40, nulliparous, with squamous cell carcinoma of the upper third of the vagina, at FIGO Stage I were submitted to conservative surgery of the reproductive/sexual function at our Institution. After written informed consent was obtained, conservative surgical treatment consisting of radical tumorectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy, in three patients, and partial hemi-vaginectomy plus homolateral paracolpectomy/parametrectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy, in the forth patient, was carried out. RESULTS.: Mean operative time of conservative surgical treatment was 161 min. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were observed. In one patient, definitive pathologic examination revealed microscopic involvement of the paracolpium. Thus, after carrying out laparoscopic ovarian transposition, adjuvant radiotherapy (RT), consisting of pulsed-dose rate brachytherapy and external RT, was delivered in this woman. After a follow-up time of 51, 45, 21 and 9 months, respectively, all patients are regularly menstruating, sexually active and clinically free of disease. CONCLUSION.: To our knowledge, this is the first report showing the feasibility and the efficacy of conservative surgery of reproductive and sexual function in young woman with vaginal carcinoma. A larger number of patients and a longer follow-up are needed to validate the safety of this approach.

February

Female Child Sexual Abuse within the Family in a Hungarian County.
Csorba R, Lampe L, Borsos A, Balla L, Poka R, Olah E
Gynecol Obstet Invest. 2006 Feb 2;61(4):188-193.

Background: The aim of the study was to analyze the characteristics of intrafamiliar female child sexual abuse and to explore common features that may be utilized as targets for possible methods of prevention. We also described the medical and legal approaches to handling child neglect. Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study on 52 sexually abused girls under the age of 18 at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical and Health Science Center of Debrecen. We prospectively recorded the data of all cases. Intrafamiliar events were defined if the victim and perpetrator belonged to the same family. Legal outcomes were also recorded. Results: During the 16-year period, 209 cases of sexual abuse were seen in our clinic, 52 of them had been involved in child sexual abuse within the family. This accounts for 25% of adolescent cases. Eighty-six percent of the victims were pupils, 50% of them were between 11 and 14 years of age. The perpetrator was the victim's father in 44%, and the stepfather in 40%. There was a slight difference between the type of abuse among the pre- and postpubertal group of victims, but statistically it was not significant. The abuse occurred on multiple occasions in 52%. The occurrence rate of assault was the highest in the summer season (58%), mostly in the afternoon (42%) and it took place almost exclusively at home (98%). The mother accompanied the victim in 38% of the cases and the police in 40%. Vaginal penetration was the type of abuse in 75%, and sexual perversion in 25%. Six victims were physically injured, the presence of sperm could be confirmed on vulvovaginal smears in 2 cases. One pregnancy conceived. Nine cases were reported to the police and as a result of legal proceedings, 5 perpetrators have been sentenced. Conclusion: The majority of crimes take place within the family and are disclosed after multiple episodes. The small proportion of reported sexual assaults is the consequence of the lack of harmony between the Hungarian conditions of emergency care and the criminal law. Prevention calls for attention at all levels of child education, observation at off-school times, early involvement of health professionals, applying standardized medical guidelines and the modification of jurisdiction.

[Women faced with the problem of erectile dysfunction: women's view on a male problem]
Colson MH
Prog Urol. 2005 Sep;15(4):710-6.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study is based on an opinion survey conducted with the support of the Societe d'Etudes Francaise Louis Harris, performed by telephone on a final sample of 507 women, representative of the population of French women between the ages of 20 and 65 years, interviewed about their sexuality. In particular we studied their perception and behaviour in relation to their partner's erection problems. RESULTS: 25% of women reported that they had experienced such problems, and although it was impossible to define a predictive profile pre-disposing to this problem, their attitude in relation to this event was found to be globally positive with an attitude designed to reassure and stimulate the partner experiencing erectile dysfunction (92%). In contrast, 66.4% of women considered that their partner's attitude tended to reinforce their sexual difficulties (insistence, withdrawal, avoidance, absence of dialogue). Erectile dysfunction (ED) does not affect the sexual satisfaction of the partner concerned (satisfied in 84% of cases), who report that they suffer much more from the lack of communication, frequent in this type of situation, well than from the absence of penetration (3%). CONCLUSION: Medical consultation is still relatively rare, and is essentially requested by the woman when her partner withdraws and refuses any assistance. It is often prevented by negative cognitions concerning the irreversibility of ED, for example when it is attributed to age. There is also a significant difference between women who say that they would encourage their partner to consult for this type of problem (87%), and those who actually encourage their partner to consult when specifically faced with this problem (8%). Women faced with the problem of ED are largely more in favour of the use of erectile drugs that those of the other group.

Sexual problems in male patients older than 20 years with anorectal malformations.
Konuma K, Ikawa H, Kohno M, Okamoto S, Masuyama H, Fukumoto H
J Pediatr Surg. 2006 Feb;41(2):306-9.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: The nervi erigentes in high- and intermediate-type male anorectal malformation (ARM) runs a relatively medial course and is vulnerable in sacro-perineal dissection. These types of ARM are also associated with a high frequency of sacral anomaly, and sexual problems may be expected. However, sexual function cannot be evaluated until after the individual passes puberty. Few reports have investigated the sexual status of pubescent males with ARM. The present study evaluated sexual problems in patients with high- and intermediate-type ARM. METHODS: Sexual problems such as erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory incompetence were evaluated in 17 of 23 men aged more than 20 years who underwent operation for high- or intermediate-type ARM between September 1974 and January 2005. RESULTS: Erection angle was normal in 9 patients (52.9%), mild in 6 patients (35.3%), and dysfunctional in 2 patients (11.8%). Ejaculatory function was normal in 10 patients (58.8%), with ejaculatory incompetence in 5 patients (29.4%) and retrograde ejaculation in 2 patients (11.8%). Either erectile or ejaculatory dysfunction was present in 5 patients (29.4%), whereas both were present in 2 patients (11.8%). Sexual problems were identified in 7 patients (41.2%), with sacral anomalies in 5 (71.4%) of these 7 patients. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual problems such as erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction are common in patients with high- or intermediate-type ARM. Patients with sexual distress require persistent follow-up and continuous counselling to support their sexual problems.

Young people's sexual and reproductive health rights.
Sundby J
Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2006 Feb 8;.

The world's population contains more young people than ever, with almost half under the age of 25 years. Millions every year enter their 'reproductive age'. Many do this in a safe and controlled way, and manage to balance life goals, education and sexual maturity as essential positive elements of human life. However, in developing countries, many young people are exposed to the increasing risks of unprotected sexual practice, such as exposure to human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, other sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted or unplanned pregnancies, sexual abuse and rape, and mental health problems related to unwanted sexual exposures. Some, especially the poor and uneducated, enter into sexual activities without proper information or access to protective services. There are cultural and moral reasons for this lack of information. Worldwide, evidence demonstrates that informed young people demonstrate more protective behaviour than uninformed young people. This paper addresses how one can meet the reproductive rights of young clients, especially females, in a human rights and reproductive rights framework, as well as in clinical practice and also safeguard their health and ensure their sexual safety.

Emergency contraception - a human rights issue.
Croxatto HB, Fernandez SD
Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2006 Feb 8;.

Emergency contraception is the only resource that women can use to avoid becoming pregnant after having sexual intercourse without contraceptive protection. It could be a powerful means to prevent unwanted pregnancies and their devastating consequences for women's health, social wellbeing and life project, and for the unwanted child, if all people had ample access to good quality information, education and services for sexual and reproductive health. In spite of the preventive medicine value of emergency contraception, conservative sectors oppose its availability, appealing to moral values that are not universally shared in pluralistic societies. Excluding the only contraceptive that can be used after intercourse because some consider the mechanism of action to be unacceptable would mean restricting the right of choice of others, and imposing one particular belief or set of values on all members of the community, thus violating the freedom of conscience. Authorities have a moral obligation to protect human rights.

January

Erectile dysfunction.
Burnett AL
J Urol. 2006 Mar;175(3 Suppl):S25-31.

PURPOSE: An overview of the latest concepts advanced with regard to the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of male ED is provided. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Published literature and current paradigms promoted by consensus bodies in the field with regard to the management of ED were reviewed. RESULTS: ED is a neurovascular phenomenon modulated by hormonal, local biochemical, and biomechanical/structural factors of the penis. Once viewed primarily as a psychological issue, ED is now understood to represent predominantly organic etiologies. It has a significant association with cardiovascular disease and could serve as a harbinger of subsequent cardiovascular events. Goal directed assessment and management implies a focus on patient (and partner) preferences regarding various treatment options. These options range from oral pharmacological agents to surgery and may be pursued according to a stepwise management approach. Psychosocial interventions also may serve as useful therapeutic adjuncts. CONCLUSIONS: ED is a highly manageable disorder in most patients. The patient and his partner have integral roles in the decision making process, since preferences regarding the importance of sexual activity, and the risks and benefits of treatment will vary greatly among individuals.

Sexual activity and function in postmenopausal women with heart disease.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Feb;175(2):661.

Sexual dysfunction in female hemodialysis patients: a multicenter study.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Feb;175(2):660-1.

Female sexual dysfunction following vaginal surgery: a review.
Tunuguntla HS, Gousse AE
J Urol. 2006 Feb;175(2):439-46.

PURPOSE: Depending on age it has been estimated that up to 40% of women have complaints of sexual problems, including decreased libido, vaginal dryness, pain with intercourse, decreased genital sensation and difficulty or inability to achieve orgasm. In this review we address the etiologies and incidence, evaluation and treatment of female sexual dysfunction following vaginal surgery for indications such as stress urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse; anterior/posterior colporrhaphy, perineoplasty and vaginal vault prolapse. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literature on the mechanisms by which vaginal surgery affects female sexual function are discussed along with related pathophysiology to potential causes. The anatomy, neurovascular supply of the clitoris and introitus, and intrapelvic nerve supply are discussed as related to vaginal surgery. Techniques to avoid neurovascular damage during pelvic floor surgery were corroborated by supporting literature. Literature regarding female sexual dysfunction following other procedures, such as vaginal hysterectomy, Martius flap interposition, and vesicovaginal and rectovaginal fistula repair were also discussed. RESULTS: Current literature does not support an association between vaginal length following vaginal surgery and sexual function. The proportion of women who are sexually active does not appear to be affected by vaginal surgery. Sling surgery for urinary incontinence does not appear to adversely affect overall sexual function, although individual parameters of sexual function scores may vary, eg a significant percent of women report pain during intercourse. Some patients experience improved overall sexual function due to complete relief from coital incontinence CONCLUSIONS: Symptomatic vaginal narrowing is rare even in women undergoing simultaneous posterior repair. Overall sexual satisfaction appears to be independent of therapy for urinary incontinence or prolapse. Data indicate that defect specific posterior colporrhaphy with the avoidance of levator ani plication may improve sexual function. The possible etiological factors for sexual dysfunction following vaginal surgery deserve further investigations.

Re: Sexual function in women with pelvic organ prolapse compared to women without pelvic organ prolapse.
But I
J Urol. 2006 Jan;175(1):393.

Relationship between sexual dysfunction and psychiatric status in premenopausal women with fibromyalgia.
Aydin G, Basar MM, Keles I, Ergun G, Orkun S, Batislam E
Urology. 2006 Jan;67(1):156-61.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the possible relationship between the sexual and psychiatric status of premenopausal female patients with fibromyalgia compared with healthy controls. METHODS: A total of 48 female patients with fibromyalgia and 38 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. All the subjects were asked to complete the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for sexual status and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) for psychiatric assessment. Serum biochemical analysis was done, and the serum hormonal levels were analyzed. RESULTS: The mean BDI score for patients was significantly greater than the score for the controls (P = 0.017) and the mean FSFI score was significantly lower than the score for the controls (P = 0.001). According to the FSFI data, female sexual dysfunction was found in 26 patients (54.2%) with fibromyalgia and only 6 controls (15.8%), a significant difference (Pearson chi-square = 14.46, P = 0.000). When the subscores of each domain of FSFI were evaluated, the most common sexual problem was diminished desire in patients (n = 30, 62.5%) and controls (n = 11, 28.9%). In the correlation analysis, the FSFI score showed a significant negative correlation with the BDI (r = -0.337, P = 0.002) and STAI (r = -0.413, P = 0.004) scores. No significant correlation was revealed between the FSFI and BDI or FSFI and STAI scores in the controls. CONCLUSIONS: Depression is one of the emotional disorders commonly encountered in women with fibromyalgia, most possibly leading to sexual dysfunction. Thus, sexual dysfunction related to impaired psychiatric status should be considered a common problem in premenopausal women with fibromyalgia.

Progress in female sexual dysfunction.
Verit FF, Yeni E, Kafali H
Urol Int. 2006;76(1):1-10.

INTRODUCTION: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a significant age-related, progressive and highly prevalent problem that affects a substantial number of women that causes personal distress and has negative effects on quality of life and interpersonal relationships. DEFINITIONS: The female sexual response cycle consists of three phases: desire, arousal, and orgasm, and is initiated by non-adrenergic/non-cholinergic, e.g. vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and nitric oxide, neurotransmitters that maintain vascular and non-vascular smooth muscle relaxation resulting in increased pelvic blood flow, vaginal lubrication, and clitoral and labial engorgement. Furthermore, hormonal status may influence female sexual function. For the diagnosis of FSD, a detailed history should be taken initially, followed by a physical examination and laboratory studies. CONCLUSION: Due to the fact that there has been little research and attention on FSD, our knowledge in this field is quite limited and there is still no approved therapy. Future advances in evaluation and treatment of female sexual problems are forthcoming.

Sexual health and the new ageing.
Gott M
Age Ageing. 2006 Jan 23;.

Practice patterns of physician members of the American Urogynecologic Society regarding female sexual dysfunction: results of a national survey.
Pauls RN, Kleeman SD, Segal JL, Silva WA, Goldenhar LM, Karram MM
Int Urogynecol J Pelvic Floor Dysfunct. 2005 Nov-Dec;16(6):460-7. Epub 2005 Apr 19.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate practice patterns of members of the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS) with respect to female sexual dysfunction (FSD). A brief self-administered survey of 20 questions was mailed to 966 physician members of the AUGS in the United States of America and Canada; 471 surveys were returned (49% response rate). The majority of responders see urogynecology (19%) or urogynecology and general gynecology patients (43%). Sixty-eight percent of physicians were familiar with questionnaires to assess FSD; however, only 13% said they use these for screening purposes. Most said they believed screening for FSD was somewhat (47%) or very important (42%). Despite having these beliefs, only 22% of the responding physicians stated they always screen for FSD, while 55% do so most of the time and 23% admitted they never or rarely screen. Similar results were obtained regarding screening following urogynecologic surgery. Several barriers to screening for FSD existed, the most common being lack of time. The majority of respondents (69%) underestimated the prevalence of FSD in their patient population. Finally, although more than half of responders had received post-residency training in urogynecology (59%), 50% of them stated the training with respect to FSD was unsatisfactory, while only 10% were satisfied. Overall, many urogynecologists do not consistently screen for FSD, underestimate its prevalence, and feel they received unsatisfactory training.

Women exposed to intimate partner violence: expectations and experiences when they encounter health care professionals: a meta-analysis of qualitative studies.
Feder GS, Hutson M, Ramsay J, Taket AR
Arch Intern Med. 2006 Jan 9;166(1):22-37.

BACKGROUND: The appropriate response of health care professionals to intimate partner violence is still a matter of debate. This article reports a meta-analysis of qualitative studies that answers 2 questions: (1) How do women with histories of intimate partner violence perceive the responses of health care professionals? and (2) How do women with histories of intimate partner violence want their health care providers to respond to disclosures of abuse? METHODS: Multiple databases were searched from their start to July 1, 2004. Searches were complemented with citation tracking and contact with researchers. Inclusion criteria included a qualitative design, women 15 years or older with experience of intimate partner violence, and English language. Two reviewers independently applied criteria and extracted data. Findings from the primary studies were combined using a qualitative meta-analysis. RESULTS: Twenty-nine articles reporting 25 studies (847 participants) were included. The emerging constructs were largely consistent across studies and did not vary by study quality. We ordered constructs by the temporal structure of consultations with health care professionals: before the abuse is discussed, at disclosure, and the immediate and further responses of the health care professional. Key constructs included a wish from women for responses from health care professionals that were nonjudgmental, nondirective, and individually tailored, with an appreciation of the complexity of partner violence. Repeated inquiry about partner violence was seen as appropriate by women who were at later stages of an abusive relationship. CONCLUSION: Women's perceptions of appropriate and inappropriate responses partly depended on the context of the consultation, their own readiness to address the issue, and the nature of the relationship between the woman and the health care professional.

Erectile dysfunction and subsequent cardiovascular disease.
Thompson IM, Tangen CM, Goodman PJ, Probstfield JL, Moinpour CM, Coltman CA
JAMA. 2005 Dec 21;294(23):2996-3002.

CONTEXT: The risk factors for cardiovascular disease and erectile dysfunction are similar. OBJECTIVE: To examine the association of erectile dysfunction and subsequent cardiovascular disease. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Men aged 55 years or older who were randomized to the placebo group (n = 9457) in the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial at 221 US centers were evaluated every 3 months for cardiovascular disease and erectile dysfunction between 1994 and 2003. Proportional hazards regression models were used to evaluate the association of erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. In an adjusted model, covariates included age, body mass index, blood pressure, serum lipids, diabetes, family history of myocardial infarction, race, smoking history, physical activity, and quality of life. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular disease. RESULTS: Of the 9457 men randomized to placebo, 8063 (85%) had no cardiovascular disease at study entry; of these men, 3816 (47%) had erectile dysfunction at study entry. Among the 4247 men without erectile dysfunction at study entry, 2420 men (57%) reported incident erectile dysfunction after 5 years. After adjustment, incident erectile dysfunction was associated with a hazard ratio of 1.25 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.53; P = .04) for subsequent cardiovascular events during study follow-up. For men with either incident or prevalent erectile dysfunction, the hazard ratio was 1.45 (95% CI, 1.25-1.69; P<.001). For subsequent cardiovascular events, the unadjusted risk of an incident cardiovascular event was 0.015 per person-year among men without erectile dysfunction at study entry and was 0.024 per person-year for men with erectile dysfunction at study entry. This association was in the range of risk associated with current smoking or a family history of myocardial infarction. CONCLUSIONS: Erectile dysfunction is a harbinger of cardiovascular clinical events in some men. Erectile dysfunction should prompt investigation and intervention for cardiovascular risk factors.

Is Penile Enlargement an Ethical Procedure for Patients with a Normal-Sized Penis?
Vardi Y
Eur Urol. 2006 Jan 18;.

[Penile prosthesis. Quality outcomes and morbidity]
Chiva Robles V, Llanes Gonzalez L, Pascual Mateo C, Espinales Castro G, Romero Cajigal I, Berenguer Sanchez A
Arch Esp Urol. 2005 Nov;58(9):925-30; disscusion 930.

OBJECTIVES: To study patient satisfaction and complications appeared in a series of patients with erectile dysfunction undergoing implant of penile prosthesis. METHODS: Retrospective study of all patients undergoing surgical treatment for erectile dysfunction by penile prosthesis implant between 1993 and 2003. Collected data included patient age at the time of surgery, previous treatment, and significant medical history. We reviewed the models of prosthesis employed, incisions, and complications appeared. Finally, a questionnaire was elaborated to establish the level of patient satisfaction. RESULTS: 24 prostheses were implanted between 1993 and 2003. Mean patient age was 56.6 +/- 7.56 years (36-63), median 59.5 yr. Penile-scrotal incision was employed in 13 (54.16%) patients, suprapubic incision in 6 (25%) and subcoronal incision in 1 (4.16%). Type of prosthesis: semirrigid AMS 600 9 (37.5%), semirrigid AMS 650 10 (41.66%); the two component hydraulic prosthesis AMS Ambicor was used only in one case. Six (25%) patients presented complications. 16.66% were minor, cavernositis, pain, hematoma or prosthesis extrusion. Prosthesis extraction was necessary in 2 (8.33%) cases. 13 (54.16%) patients responded to the telephone survey 85% of them use their prosthesis. 54% percent refer adequate self-satisfaction and partner satisfaction (well satisfied/much satisfaction). 23% not too bad, and the remainder 23% bad or very bad. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the highest rate of postoperative complications, penile prosthesis is adequately accepted by patients with erectile dysfunction, even malleable models. Patient satisfaction is high, being higher in partners. Most patients would desire to undergo surgery again if they were in the same situation.

The efficacy of a nerve stimulator (Cavermap) to enhance autonomic nerve identification and confirm nerve preservation during total mesorectal excision.
da Silva GM, Zmora O, Borjesson L, Mizhari N, Daniel N, Khandwala F, Efron J, Weiss EG, Nogueras JJ, Vernava AM, Wexner SD
Dis Colon Rectum. 2005 Dec;48(12):2354-61.

PURPOSE: Sexual dysfunction after total mesorectal excision may be caused by injury to the autonomic nerves. During surgery, nerve identification is not always achieved, and, to date, there has been no method to objectively confirm nerve preservation. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a nerve-stimulating device (CaverMap) to assist in the intraoperative identification of the autonomic nerves during total mesorectal excision, and objectively confirm nerve preservation after proctectomy is completed. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Sexually active consecutive male patients undergoing total mesorectal excision were prospectively enrolled in this study. During pelvic dissection, the surgeon attempted to localize the hypogastric and cavernous nerves. CaverMap was used to confirm these findings and to facilitate the identification in cases of uncertainty. At the completion of proctectomy, the nerves were restimulated to ensure preservation. Factors that could affect the surgeon's ability to localize the nerves and CaverMap to confirm this were evaluated. RESULTS: Twenty-nine male patients with a median age of 58 years were enrolled in this study. An attempt to visualize the hypogastric nerves during dissection was made in 26 patients; the surgeon was able to identify the nerves in 19 (73 percent) patients. CaverMap successfully identified the nerves in six of the seven remaining patients, and failed to identify them in only one case. An attempt to localize the cavernous nerves during dissection was made in 13 patients, of which localization was successful in 8 (61.5 percent) patients. CaverMap improved the identification rate in four of the remaining five patients. After proctectomy, CaverMap successfully confirmed the preservation of both hypogastric and cavernous nerves in 27 of 29 (93 percent) patients. A history of previous surgery statistically correlated with failure to identify the hypogastric nerves by the surgeon (P = 0.005). There were no adverse events related to use of the device. CONCLUSION: CaverMap may be a useful tool to facilitate identification of the pelvic autonomic nerves during total mesorectal excision and to objectively confirm nerve preservation.

[Transsexuals' life satisfaction after gender transformation operations.]
Zimmermann A, Zimmer R, Kovacs L, Einodshofer S, Herschbach P, Henrich G, Tunner W, Biemer E, Papadopulos NA
Chirurg. 2006 Jan 26;.

BACKROUND: More and more frequently, the registration of life satisfaction is being used to evaluate different medical treatments. So far, there have been only few such surveys on transsexuals (TS). Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the general and the health-related life satisfaction of transsexuals after gender transformation operations.PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty patients took part in this German cross-sectional study. The Questions on Life Satisfaction Module (FLZ) and free questions on different aspects of the new gender identity were used as measuring instruments.RESULTS: Of the TS studied, 85-95% were "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with the results of their gender transformation operation in respect to gender identity. The TS were significantly less satisfied (P>0.001) in overall "general life satisfaction" than the general population. In overall FLZ scores for "health-related life satisfaction", no differences were seen.CONCLUSION: These data indicate a discrepancy between subjective satisfaction with new gender identity and current life situation, and they identify problems with life satisfaction.

Spousal intimacy after cancer.
Carmack Taylor CL
Gynecol Oncol. 2005 Dec;99(3 Suppl 1):S217-8.

Trends in sexually transmitted infections in general practice 1990-2000: population based study using data from the UK general practice research database.
Cassell JA, Mercer CH, Sutcliffe L, Petersen I, Islam A, Brook MG, Ross JD, Kinghorn GR, Simms I, Hughes G, Majeed A, Stephenson JM, Johnson AM, Hayward AC
BMJ. 2006 Jan 26;.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the contribution of primary care to the diagnosis and management of sexually transmitted infections in the United Kingdom, 1990-2000, in the context of increasing incidence of infections in genitourinary medicine clinics. DESIGN: Population based study. SETTING: UK primary care. PARTICIPANTS: Patients registered in the UK general practice research database. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Incidence of diagnosed sexually transmitted infections in primary care and estimation of the proportion of major such infections diagnosed in primary care. RESULTS: An estimated 23.0% of chlamydia cases in women but only 5.3% in men were diagnosed and treated in primary care during 1998-2000, along with 49.2% cases of non-specific urethritis and urethral discharge in men and 5.7% cases of gonorrhoea in women and 2.9% in men. Rates of diagnosis in primary care rose substantially in the late 1990s. CONCLUSIONS: A substantial and increasing number of sexually transmitted infections are diagnosed and treated in primary care in the United Kingdom, with sex ratios differing from those in genitourinary medicine clinics. Large numbers of men are treated in primary care for presumptive sexually transmitted infections.

Safety and efficacy of a testosterone patch for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in surgically menopausal women: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Feb;175(2):660.

Circulating androgen levels and self-reported sexual function in women.
Seftel A
J Urol. 2006 Feb;175(2):659.


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