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

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