Adenomyosis: A potential cause of surgical failure in treating dyspareunia in rectovaginal septum endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

Dyspareunia can severely impact the quality of life of patients with endometriosis. This symptom is often linked to a specific form of deep infiltrating endometriosis, such as rectovaginal septum endometriosis. Despite the radicality of surgery, persistence and recurrence of symptoms post-surgery are not uncommon. The aim of the present study was to determine whether adenomyosis contributes to the failure of surgical interventions for dyspareunia in these patients.

METHODS

A retrospective single-cohort study was conducted at the at tertiary care gynecologic center of the University Federico II of Naples, using medical records from January 2020 to July 2023. The study included patients who underwent surgery for dyspareunia associated with rectovaginal endometriosis and had a definitive histologic diagnosis. Pain and sexual quality of life were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) and the sexual quality of life-female (SQoL-F) questionnaire, both before and 6 months after surgery. Patients with isolated rectovaginal endometriosis were compared to those with concurrent adenomyosis.

RESULTS

A total of 94 patients were included: thirty-five in group A (endometriosis with adenomyosis) and 59 in group B (isolated rectovaginal endometriosis). Histology confirmed deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) in all patients. Clinical characteristics such as age, BMI, abnormal uterine bleeding, and infertility, showed no significant differences between the groups. Multiparity was more common in group A (20%) compared to group B (5.1%) (P < 0.001). Pain VAS scores decreased significantly in both groups: from 7.11 to 5.40 in group A and from 7.34 to 3.31 in group B (both P < 0.001). Sexual quality of life (SQoL) scores improved significantly: from 42 to 57 in group A and from 41 to 66 in group B (both P < 0.001). Patients in group B showed a more significant improvement. Adjusted linear regression showed no significant association between parity and the severity of dyspareunia or sexual quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Adenomyosis appears to reduce the effectiveness of surgical treatment for dyspareunia in patients with rectovaginal septum endometriosis. Comprehensive preoperative screening for adenomyosis is recommended to improve surgical outcomes and provide appropriate counseling. Future research should further explore the impact of adenomyosis on dyspareunia and the potential benefits of adjunctive medical therapies.

Sexual function in women with endometriosis and pelvic floor myofascial pain syndrome

Objective

To evaluate and compare the sexual function and pelvic floor muscles (PFM) function of women with endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain (CPP) with and without Myofascial Pelvic Pain Syndrome (MPPS).

Methods

Cross-sectional study conducted between January 2018 and December 2020. Women with deep endometriosis underwent assessments for trigger points (TP) and PFM function using the PERFECT scale. Electromyographic activity (EMG) and sexual function through Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were assessed. Statistical analyses included chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests.

Results

There were 46 women. 47% had increased muscle tone and 67% related TP in levator ani muscle (LAM). Weakness in PFM, with P≤2 was noted in 82% and P≥3 in only 17%. Incomplete relaxation of PFM presented in 30%. EMG results were resting 6.0, maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC) 61.9 and Endurance 14.2; FSFI mean total score 24.7. We observed an association between increased muscle tone (P<.001), difficulty in relaxation (P=.019), and lower Endurance on EMG (P=.04) in women with TP in LAM. Participants with TP presented lower total FSFI score (P=.02). TP in the right OIM presented increased muscle tone (P=.01). TP in the left OIM presented lower values to function of PFM by PERFECT (P=.005), and in MVIC (P=.03) on EMG.

Conclusion

Trigger points (TP) in pelvic floor muscles (PFM) and obturator internus muscle (OIM) correlates with poorer PFM and sexual function, particularly in left OIM TP cases. Endometriosis and chronic pelvic pain raise muscle tone, weaken muscles, hinder relaxation, elevate resting electrical activity, lower maximum voluntary isometric contraction, and reduce PFM endurance.

Measurement properties of sexual function assessment questionnaires in women with endometriosis: A systematic review following COSMIN guidelines

INTRODUCTION

Sexual function of patients with endometriosis should be assessed by patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) that present high reliability and validity. The objective was to study the PROMs used to assess sexual function for patients with endometriosis to improve their selection for research and clinical practice.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We performed a systematic literature review from January 2000 to September 2023. All studies including women with confirmed endometriosis and assessing sexual quality of life or sexual function or sexual distress were retrieved. Different properties of PROMs used for sexual dysfunction were assessed according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) recommendations. Properties evaluated were: structural validity, internal consistency, cross-cultural validity, reliability, measurement error, criterion validity, construct validity, and responsiveness. This literature review was registered on Prospero as 2018 CRD42018102278.

RESULTS

Seventy-four articles with evaluation of sexual function were included. Of the 25 PROMs assessing sexual function, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was the most frequently used (34/74 [45.9%] items), followed by the Female Sexual Distress Scale (9/74 [12.2%] items) and the Sexual Activity Questionnaire (SAQ) (8/74 [10.8%] items). The most commonly used measurement properties were "hypothesis testing" and "responsiveness". The PROMs with a high level of evidence for these two measurement properties were the FSFI, the SAQ, the Short Sexual Functioning Scale, the Sexual Satisfaction Scale for Women, Sexual Quality of Life-Female, the Brief Profile of Female Sexual Function, and the Sexual Health Outcomes in Women Questionnaire. The FSFI questionnaire appeared to be more relevant for evaluating medical treatment, and the SAQ for evaluating surgical treatment. Only one instrument was specific to endometriosis (the Subjective Impact of Dyspareunia Inventory [SIDI]).

CONCLUSIONS

In this systematic literature review of sexual function assessment questionnaires in endometriosis, the FSFI and the SAQ questionnaires emerged as having the best measurement properties according to the COSMIN criteria. The FSFI questionnaire appears to be suited for evaluating medical treatment, and the SAQ for surgical treatment. The SIDI is the only specific questionnaire, but its responsiveness remains to be defined.

The quality, suitability, and readability of web-based resources on endometriosis-associated dyspareunia: A systematic review

People commonly and increasingly rely on the internet to search for health information, including those related to endometriosis-associated dyspareunia. Yet the content of such websites may be of variable accuracy and quality. This review aims to evaluate the quality, readability, and suitability of web-based resources on endometriosis-associated dyspareunia for patients. We searched 3 databases - Google, Bing, and Yahoo - to identify websites related to endometriosis-associated dyspareunia. Two independent reviewers screened the search results against inclusion and exclusion criteria. Another set of two reviewers evaluated the selected websites using validated measurement instruments. Out of 450 websites, 21 met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated. More than half of the websites had information on content updates, reported on authorship, or disclosed sponsorship information. The mean quality and suitability scores were 47.5 (SD = 13.3) and 65.2 (SD = 13.6) respectively, thus suggesting generally adequate quality and suitability levels. However, the mean readability scores exceeded the recommended level for health-related websites. The poor readability of the websites might limit accessibility for a significant proportion of patients with low educational levels. The findings of this review have implications for designing high-quality, readable and up-to-date web interventions for people who rely on web platforms as an alternative or complementary source of health information on dyspareunia.

Segmental Rectum Resection for Deep Endometriosis and Excision Similarly Improve Sexual Function and Pain

Segmental rectum resections for indications other than endometriosis were reported to result in up to 40% sexual dysfunctions. We, therefore, evaluated sexual function after low bowel resection (n = 33) for deep endometriosis in comparison with conservative excision (n = 23). Sexual function was evaluated with the FSFI-19 (Female Sexuality Functioning Index) and EHP 30 (Endometriosis Health Profile). The pain was evaluated with visual analogue scales. Linear excision and bowel resections improved FSFI, EHP 30, and postoperative pain comparably. By univariate analysis, a decreased sexual function was strongly associated with pain both before (p < 0.0001) and after surgery (p = 0.0012), age (p = 0.05), and duration of surgery (p = 0.023). By multivariate analysis (proc logistic), the FSFI after surgery was predicted only by FSFI before or EHP after surgery. No differences were found between low bowel segmental resection and a more conservative excision. In conclusion, improving pain after surgery can explain the improvement in sexual function. A deleterious effect of a bowel resection on sexual function was not observed for endometriosis. Sexual function in women with endometriosis can be evaluated using a simplified questionnaire such as FSFI-6.

Self-Determined Sexual Motivation in Persons with Endometriosis and Their Partners: Dyadic Associations of Autonomous and Controlled Sexual Motivations with Sexual and Relational Well-Being and Pain

Endometriosis is a chronic pain condition characterized by the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside of the uterus. Affected individuals and their partners report consequences to sexual functioning, sexual satisfaction, and relationship quality. Previous studies in clinical and non-clinical samples have found that sexual motivation can support or detract from sexual functioning; however, similar investigations are lacking among couples with endometriosis. Informed by self-determination theory, associations between autonomous and controlled sexual motivations with sexual functioning, sexual satisfaction, and relationship satisfaction for persons with endometriosis and their partners, and pain in persons with endometriosis were investigated. Couples (n = 54) completed measures of sexual motivation, sexual functioning, sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, and pain. When persons with endometriosis reported greater autonomous sexual motivation, they were more sexually and relationally satisfied. When persons with endometriosis reported higher controlled sexual motivation, their pain was more unpleasant, and they and their partners were less sexually satisfied. Finally, when partners reported greater controlled sexual motivation, both members of the couple reported significantly lower sexual functioning. While controlled sexual motivation may hinder sexual and relational well-being in couples with endometriosis, autonomous sexual motivation may support them. The findings may inform interventions to promote sexual and relational health in couples with endometriosis.

Impact of endometriosis on female sexual function: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Endometriosis can lead to a state of chronic inflammation marked by the presence of scarring and adhesions within the pelvis and/or other parts of the body. Recent estimates suggest that globally this condition affects approximately 10% of women in the reproductive age group.

Aims

In this study we sought updated evidence on the association between endometriosis and sexual function in female patients.

Methods

We used standard assessment tools to conduct a systematic search of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases for observational studies that documented the association of endometriosis with female sexual function. A random-effects model was used for the analysis, and effect sizes were reported as the weighted mean difference (WMD) or OR with 95% CIs.

Results

A total of 13 studies were selected for inclusion in our investigation. All of the included studies were cross-sectional in design. The data on sexual function in most of the studies were collected by using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) tool, for which higher scores suggest better sexual function. The risk of sexual dysfunction (based on specific cutoffs for the FSFI score) was higher in women with than in women without endometriosis (OR 1.71; 95% CI, 1.21-2.43). In addition, when we used continuous scores to examine the risk of sexual dysfunction, diagnosis of endometriosis was associated with significantly lower overall FSFI scores (WMD, -3.40; 95% CI, -5.13 to -1.66) and lower scores on all of its 6 domains, ie, desire (WMD, -0.27; 95% CI, -0.53 to -0.02), arousal (WMD, -0.43; 95% CI, -0.79 to -0.07), lubrication (WMD, -0.49; 95% CI, -0.66 to -0.31), orgasm (WMD, -0.65; 95% CI, -1.07 to -0.23), satisfaction (WMD, -0.52; 95% CI, -0.77 to -0.26), and pain (WMD, -1.06; 95% CI, -1.57 to -0.55).

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that female patients with endometriosis have suboptimal sexual function compared with healthy female subjects. Patients with endometriosis should be offered sexual counseling and supportive care by a multidisciplinary team of gynecologists, psychologists, and sexual therapists.

Endometriosis decreases female sexual function and increases pain severity: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study aimed to explore the effects of endometriosis on female sexual function.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched to analyze the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) or visual analog scale (VAS) scores between women with and without endometriosis. Data from publications were generated, and the sexual function of women with and without endometriosis was systematically evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of six publications were included in the study. The FSFI total score and its six domains were significantly lower in women with endometriosis: FSFI total score (P < 0.001), desire (P = 0.045), arousal (P = 0.039), pain domains (P < 0.001), lubrication (P < 0.001), orgasm (P = 0.001), and satisfaction (P < 0.001). Women with endometriosis exhibited more severity in terms of VAS scores for dyspareunia (P = 0.008) and chronic pelvic pain (P < 0.001); however, no significant severity for dysmenorrhea was observed (P = 0.118). Subgroup analysis showed that the region was not a source of heterogeneity. Publication bias was not noted in all included studies, and most results of the sensitivity analysis for the included indexes were stable, which implied that our results were relatively reliable.

CONCLUSION

The present meta-analysis provided evidence that endometriosis decreased female sexual function and increased the pain severity of dyspareunia and chronic pelvic pain.

Analysis of preoperative and postoperative quality of life, sexual function, and sleep in patients with endometriosis: a prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

Endometriosis affects the quality of life, sleep, and sexual life of patients due to pain. This study compared the scores of endometriosis patients in these three areas before and after surgery.

METHODS

Patients between the ages of 18 and 60 with a prediagnosis of endometriosis were enrolled. Postoperative histopathological diagnosis of endometriosis was confirmed in all patients. This study included 56 patients who completed pre- and postoperative (three months) evaluation of quality scale questionnaires: a visual analog scale for pelvic pain, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, Endometriosis Health Profile-30 Questionnaire, and Female Sexual Function Index were administered prior to and 3 months after each patient's surgery.

RESULTS

Among the 56 female patients included in this study, statistically significant improvement was observed in pain scores, quality of life, sexual function, and sleep of all patients regardless of endometriosis stage.

CONCLUSION

Endometriosis is a disease that progresses, with increasing pain scores; it has negative effects on the quality of life, sexual function, and sleep of patients. Surgical or medical treatment can be performed considering the complaints and fertility status of the patients.

Effect of sex education on sexual function and sexual quality of life in women with endometriosis: A quasi-experimental study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of a sex education program on sexual function and sexual quality of life in women with endometriosis.

METHODS

In a quasi-experimental study, women with endometriosis who had undergone laparoscopic surgery were assigned to an intervention group (n = 36) or a control group (n = 36). The intervention group received a sex education program consisting of two sessions a week (90 min each) for two consecutive weeks; the control group received none. Both groups were followed for 12 weeks. Sexual function and sexual quality of life were assessed on the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Sexual Quality of life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire before the intervention, as well as 8 and 12 weeks after the intervention. Outcomes were analyzed using Student t test, the χ² test, Fisher exact test, and repeated measures analysis of variance.

RESULTS

The mean age of the study participants was 36.9 ± 5.7 years. The two groups did not differ significantly in terms of demographics and pre-intervention clinical characteristics. At the end of the study, sex education reduced female sexual dysfunction by 58.1% in the intervention group. The mean FSFI score increased significantly in the intervention group from pre-intervention to 8 and 12 weeks post-intervention compared with the scores in the control group (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Sex education appears to be a promising intervention for reducing sexual dysfunction and improving sexual function and sexual quality of life in women with endometriosis. Future studies should encompass longer periods of follow up to obtain further data on the efficacy of sex education in this setting.

Endometriosis and Sexual Functioning: How Much Do Cognitive and Psycho-Emotional Factors Matter?

Women with endometriosis often suffer from genito-pelvic pain. The objective of the present study was to analyze the relationship between cognitive and psycho-emotional factors and sexual functioning of women with endometriosis, comparing women with and without endometriosis. A total of 87 women with endometriosis (EG) and 100 women without endometriosis (CG) completed a socio-demographic questionnaire; the short-form of McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ); the Female Sexual Functioning Index (FSFI); the Sexual Distress Scale (SDS); the Symptoms Checklist (SCL-90-R); the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20); the Positive and Negative Affects Scale (PANAS); the Sexual Dysfunctional Belief Questionnaire (SDBQ); the Sexual Modes Questionnaire (SMQ); and the Questionnaire of Cognitive Schema Activation in Sexual Context (QCSASC). EG obtained worse scores than CG in SF-MPQ, Pain subscale of FSFI, and SDS. EG reached higher scores than CG on almost all scales of SCL-90-R and lower scores in the “Identifying Feelings” scale of TAS-20. Furthermore, EG reported more negative emotions toward sexuality than CG (PANAS) higher scores on the “Affection Primacy” scale of SDBQ and the “Helpless” sexual cognitive schema of QCSASC than CG. No significant differences were found in SMQ. Sexual health professionals should address psychological, emotional, and cognitive factors since they seem involved in patients’ sexual experiences.

Sexual function and quality of life in women with endometriosis

Endometriosis may exert a profound negative influence on the lives of individuals with the disorder, adversely affecting quality of life, participation in daily and social activities, physical and sexual functioning, relationships, educational and work productivity, mental health, and well-being. Symptoms of endometriosis represent a great source of stress and cause a substantial negative impact on the psychological parameters, on the daily life and on the physical functioning of patients. The impact of endometriosis on work attendance has very significant economic consequences, as lost productivity has an associated cost, as do career changes resulting from a decline in education due to symptoms. Endometriosis is a pathology that affects all aspects of women's lives and that thus, it must be treated with a multidisciplinary vision that includes not only a medical approach but also psychological, work, and economic support. In this specific long-term vision of patient-centered endometriosis care, aspects of quality of life and sexual health play a key role and should always be evaluated with any patient as part of a multidisciplinary management.

Surgery vs. hormone-based treatment for pain control in deep infiltrating endometriosis: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the outcome of surgical or hormone-based pharmacological treatment for deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) in patients with pain symptoms.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study of 122 women with DIE of the bowel was conducted: 61 women underwent surgical treatment due to poor pain control and 61 received hormone-based treatment alone for at least six months. Chronic pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, deep dyspareunia, dyschezia and dysuria were evaluated by a visual analog scale (VAS) to measure pain on a scale from 0 to 10. Dyspareunia was further evaluated using the Deep Dyspareunia Scale (scores of 0-3).

RESULTS

Surgery (n = 61 women) was performed at a mean of 3.3 ± 1.6 years previously, while hormone-based treatment alone (n = 61 women) was used for a mean of 3.0 ± 1.41 years. After surgery, women without a desire to procreate received hormone-based treatment. Before treatment, the most intense endometriosis-related pain in the surgical treatment group and hormone-based treatment group alone were chronic pelvic pain (VAS = 9.48 ± 1.49; 8.57 ± 2.22), dysmenorrhea (VAS = 9.61 ± 1.45; 9.02 ± 1.35) and deep dyspareunia (VAS = 8.04 ± 2.82; 7.47 ± 3.21, respectively), all with mean pain scores of around 8 (0-10) in both groups. Both treatments were effective at reducing all symptoms (p < .001). The surgical treatment proved to be more effective and more enduring at improving chronic pelvic pain (p < .001), dyschezia (p = .003) and deep dyspareunia (p < .001). Regarding deep dyspareunia, using the deep dyspareunia scale, ∼70% of surgically treated women scored 0 or 1 (absent or mild deep dyspareunia) after treatment, compared to scores 2 or 3 (intense dyspareunia) in about 70% of the group using hormone-based treatment (p < .001).

CONCLUSION

Both types of treatment, surgical and pharmacological, effectively improved pain symptoms associated with DIE. However, improvement in chronic pelvic pain, dyschezia and deep dyspareunia was greater and longer-lasting after surgery.

Assessment of Sexual Quality of Life and Satisfaction in Couple Relationships Among Women With Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis and Adenomyosis

Adenomyosis and endometriosis are similar gynecological diseases that decrease sexual quality of life and, in the case of endometriosis, satisfaction in couple relationships. This study aimed to assess sexual quality of life and couple satisfaction in women diagnosed with adenomyosis (AD) or deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). The study population included three groups of couples: one composed of 58 couples in which the woman was diagnosed with AD by transvaginal ultrasound (AD group), a second group comprising 55 couples in which the woman was diagnosed with isolated DIE by transvaginal ultrasound (DIE group), and a third group composed of 60 couples in which the women did not have AD or endometriosis (non-AD/DIE group). All women completed the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire, and all the couples completed the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS). Sexual quality of life was significantly worse in women with AD or DIE compared with non-AD/DIE controls. Dyadic adjustment was significantly worse in the AD and DIE groups compared with the non-AD/DIE group. AD and DIE may impair quality of sexual life and couple relationships. Clinicians should be aware of this issue when treating women with AD or DIE.

The effect of dydrogesterone on sexual function in endometriosis

Endometriosis is an oestrogen-dependent chronic disease, which is commonly regarded as a disease of reproductive-aged women. We aimed to evaluate the sexual function with Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) in women with endometriosis who received dydrogesterone for 6 months. A total of 79 women with endometriomas were recruited in the study group and received 10 mg dydrogesterone tablets orally for 6 months. FSFI and visual analog scale (VAS) scores for each patient before and after treatment were recorded. When before treatment VAS scores and after treatment VAS scores (5.7 ± 1.27, 3.97 ± 1.01, respectively) were compared, a significant decrease was observed (p = .001). A significant increase in mean orgasm scores (3.23 ± 0.6 vs. 3.57 ± 0.65, p = .01) and means satisfaction scores (3.85 ± 0.48 vs. 4.10 ± 0.38, p < .001) were observed. In addition, means desire scores were also significantly higher following treatment (p = .01). In conclusion, this study showed that FSFI scores were increased after 6 months of dydrogesterone treatment in patients with endometriosis. Desire, satisfaction, orgasm and pain scores improved significantly, and sexual dysfunction decreased after treatment.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease associated with severe dysmenorrhoea, pelvic pain, dyspareunia, painful gastrointestinal symptoms and sub-fertility are among the symptoms. These symptoms can be responsible for a significant decrease in the quality of life scores of the patients. Dydrogesterone is a synthetic progesterone derivative, which suppresses oestrogen levels and ovulation. Dydrogesterone's effect on pain relief in endometriosis patients has already been shown, but it's role on the sexual dysfunction observed in women with endometriosis has not yet been questioned.What do the results of this study add? To the best of our knowledge this is the first study showing the effects of dydrogesterone on sexual function in patients with endometriosis.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Dydrogesterone can safely be used in medical treatment of endometriosis not only for pain relief but also patients with additional complaints such as sexual dysfunction can benefit from this treatment. Future studies with larger cohorts and long-term follow-ups are needed to validate our results.

Assessment of quality of sexual life in women with adenomyosis

This study aimed to assess the impact of adenomyosis (AD) on different domains of sexual life. The study population included three groups: one composed of 68 women diagnosed with AD by transvaginal ultrasound, a second group comprised by 65 women diagnosed with isolated deep infiltrating endometriosis by transvaginal ultrasound and a third group including 70 women without AD or/and endometriosis. All participants completed the Brief Profile of Female Sexual Function (B-PFSF), the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), and the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire. Compared with non-AD/DIE controls, women with AD present significantly lower scores of the B-PFSF and the SQOL-F questionnaires and higher FSDS questionnaire scores (p < .0001). There were no differences between the groups of AD and deep infiltrating endometriosis. Clinicians should be aware that the quality of sexual life may be affected in patients with AD. Early diagnosis and multidisciplinary management would contribute to preventing impairment of sexual quality of life in these patients.

Endometriosis-associated pain: a review of quality of life, sexual health and couple relationship

INTRODUCTION

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease that affects women's quality of life, sexuality, and relationship. Endometriosis-associated pain plays an essential role in well-being impairment. The present review aimed to analyze literature about endometriosis-associated pain and quality of life, sexual health, and quality of the relationship, assessing the role of the biopsychosocial factors involved and the women's pain experience.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

Bibliographic research of relevant articles published from 2015 to 2020 in PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO, and Cochrane Library.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Endometriosis is associated with impairing all women's quality of life domains, and pain appears to be the most influential variable. The pain mechanism is not simple and implies several biological, psychological, and social factors. Women's sexual health is also impaired, and patients report dyspareunia, sexual dysfunctions, dissatisfaction, and distress. Partners' sexual well being is compromised as well. Endometriosis negatively influences relationship quality, and the illness burden affects both couple members.

CONCLUSIONS

A multidisciplinary team using a couple-centered and a biopsychosocial approach is crucial to provide appropriate treatment for endometriosis-associated pain. A better comprehension of all bio-psycho-social aspects implicated in women's well-being and pain experience needs more research.

Impact of endometriosis on reproductive health: an integrative review

Endometriosis is a debilitating chronic disease that affects 10% of the general female population, with a frequency of 38% in infertile women. This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of endometriosis on different aspects of reproductive health. A literature search was performed in four international databases, including PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google scholar, from January 1995 to December 2019 to identify the potentially relevant articles. We included all relevant articles published in English and identified 46 studies on health issues in women with endometriosis. The research suggests that women with endometriosis are at risk for physical, psychosocial, social, and sexual disturbances and obstetrical complications. More research is needed to clarify better understanding of endometriosis complications specifically obstetrical consequences.

The effect of endometriosis on sexual function as assessed with the Female Sexual Function Index: systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To systematically compare sexual function between non-treated women with and without endometriosis.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed on PubMed/Medline, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases searching studies that analyzed sexual function (assessed with the 19-item Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI]), and dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea (assessed with a visual analogue scale [VAS]) in women with and with endometriosis.

RESULTS

In 4 studies, non-treated women with endometriosis presented a higher risk of female sexual dysfunction (mean total FSFI score ≤ 26.55; OR = 2.38; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12, 5.04). Although mean total FSFI scores were not significantly different between women with and without endometriosis (mean difference [MD] = -2.15; 95% CI -4.96, 0.67); all FSFI domain scores were significantly lower in women with endometriosis (n = 4 studies): desire (MD = -0.43; 95% CI -0.57, -0.19); arousal (MD = -0.66; 95% CI -1.15, -0.17); lubrication (MD = -0.41; 95% CI -0.79, -0.02); orgasm (MD = -0.40; 95% CI -0.73, -0.06); satisfaction (MD = -0.45; 95% CI -0.72, -0.18); and pain (MD = -1.03; 95% CI -1.34, -0.72). Women with endometriosis displayed differences (more severity) in terms of VAS scores (2 studies) for dyspareunia (MD = 1.88; 95% CI 0.38, 3.37) and chronic pelvic pain (MD = 2.92; 95% CI 1.26, 4.58); but not for dysmenorrhea.

CONCLUSION

Non-treated women with endometriosis displayed altered sexual function as evidenced by lower scores in all FSFI domains, and severity of dyspareunia and chronic pelvic pain.

Carbon dioxide (CO2) laser ablation of symptomatic vaginal endometriosis: a pilot study

Deep dyspareunia affects almost half of the women with endometriosis and is associated with vaginal endometriotic lesions. Our pilot study's objective is to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of CO₂-laser ablation under colposcopic guidance for the treatment of symptomatic vaginal endometriosis. A non-comparative pilot study has been performed. Only women with histologically proven vaginal endometriosis, who declared the presence of moderate or severe deep dyspareunia, resistant to at least 6 months of conventional hormonal treatment, were deemed eligible for the study. All treatments were performed in an outpatient setting with a colposcopic-guided, hand-directed CO₂-laser. Variation in pain symptoms was measured with a 0- to 10-point numerical rating scale (NRS), in sexual functioning with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), in psychological status with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and in quality of life with the Short Form-12 questionnaire (SF-12). Satisfaction with treatment was evaluated according to a five-category scale (very satisfied, satisfied, neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, dissatisfied, very dissatisfied). Nineteen women were enrolled. No complications occurred. At 12-month follow-up, significant improvements were observed in deep dyspareunia and dyschezia scores, in FSFI, HADS, and in the physical component summary scores of SF-12, whereas the mental component score of SF-12 did not vary substantially. Most women (84%) were satisfied with the treatment received. CO₂-laser ablation for vaginal endometriosis could represent a valuable alternative option for women with symptomatic lesions, both in terms of amelioration of pain symptoms and improvement in quality of life and sexual function.

Influential factors on sexual function in infertile women with endometriosis: a path analysis

Background

Endometriosis have a negative influence on women’s sexual life. The aim of the current study was to test a conceptual model considering the interrelated role of anxiety, depression, sleep quality, physical activity, BMI, stage of endometriosis, the intensity of dyspareunia and pelvic pain on sexual function (SF) in infertile women with endometriosis. Also test the mediating role of sleep quality, anxiety, and depression.

Method

In the present cross-sectional study, 220 infertile women with a laparoscopically confirmed endometriosis were recruited. Data were collected using a socio-demographic checklist, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Visual Analog Scale (VAS).

Results

We found that anxiety, depression, sleep quality, BMI, level of education, stage of endometriosis, and dyspareunia have a direct effect on women’s SF. In our study, sleep quality, anxiety, pelvic pain, and depression were the four major mediators that the higher scores lead to a decrease in the SF of endometriosis patients. The intensity of pelvic pain with an effect on sleep quality (SQ) and dyspareunia change women’s SF. The lower level of physical activity, and higher BMI with indirect effect thorough anxiety, and SQ can worsen SF. Also, a higher level of anxiety leads to poor SQ and depression. Anxiety with both direct and indirect effect impress women’s SF.

Conclusion

It seems that the main risk factors for sexual dysfunction in women with endometriosis are higher rates of anxiety, depression, poor sleep quality, pelvic pain, and dyspareunia. In the care of women with endometriosis, not only laparoscopy and medical treatment should be performed but also psychotherapeutic and psychosexual help should be offered.

Sexuality in women with endometriosis: a critical narrative review

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease that generally affects young and sexually active women in different stages of their development and sexual life. Because endometriosis affects about 5-10% of women in reproductive age, it is possible to estimate that about 2-4% of those who are sexually active may suffer from sexual dysfunction caused by this disease. Surgical and pharmacological treatments of endometriosis can improve the patient's sexual function in the medium and long term, but not necessarily lead to a definitive resolution of the sexual issue. For this reason, the ideal treatment should be conducted by a multidisciplinary team, with the aim to improve overall sexual functioning and not only to reduce the painful symptoms during intercourse. In light of these considerations, the aim of this narrative review was to provide a general overview about the impact of endometriosis on sexuality of women affected and the effectiveness of surgical and pharmacological treatments in improving sexual function.

Qualitative and quantitative aspects of sex life in the context of endometriosis: a multicentre case control study

RESEARCH QUESTION

What are the specific characteristics of sexual activity in women with endometriosis compared with women without endometriosis?

DESIGN

Multicentre case control study. Participants were recruited from university hospitals, district hospitals and doctor's offices in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. A total of 565 women with endometriosis were pair-matched to 565 control women by age and ethnic background. Diagnosis of endometriosis was confirmed by histology, and disease stage was classified according to American Society for Reproductive Medicine criteria. Data on sexuality were collected using selected questions from the Brief Index of Sexual Function and the Sexual History Form.

RESULTS

Altogether, 69.1% of women with endometriosis and 77.8% of control women engaged in sexual activity during the month before the study period (P < 0.001). Overall, 42.3% of endometriosis-affected women and 30.5% of the control women desired a higher frequency of sexual activity (P < 0.001). Petting, foreplay and vaginal sexual intercourse were reported to be practised less often by women with endometriosis. Frequencies for masturbation, reciprocal masturbation, oral and anal sex were similar in both groups. Dyspareunia was negatively associated with sexual activity (OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.26 to 4.63), whereas chronic pain showed no association with sexual activity (OR 1.35, 95% CI 0.93, 1.96).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with endometriosis have lower frequencies of petting, foreplay and vaginal sexual intercourse than control women; this difference has to be attributed, at least in part, to dyspareunia. Potentially pain-free sexual options are used to a limited degree. As endometriosis-affected women desire higher levels of sexual activity, sexual counselling should be included in medical support.

Elagolix reduced dyspareunia and improved health-related quality of life in premenopausal women with endometriosis-associated pain

Objectives:

The objective was to evaluate the effects of elagolix on dyspareunia in women with endometriosis-associated pain.

Methods:

Data were pooled from two similar, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 6-month phase 3 studies (Elaris Endometriosis-I and Elaris Endometriosis-II) of elagolix at two doses (150 mg QD and 200 mg BID) in women with endometriosis-associated pain. In this post hoc analysis, dyspareunia responders were defined as having a clinically meaningful decrease from baseline in the dyspareunia score and decreased or stable use of rescue analgesic agents, as recorded in a daily electronic diary. Sexual relationship was assessed using the 30-item Endometriosis Health Profile questionnaire sexual relationship module.

Results:

A total of 1384 women reported ⩾1 day of sexual activity at baseline (35 days prior to and including day 1 of treatment). Of these 1384 women, 1297 (94%) reported ⩾1 day of any dyspareunia (mild, moderate, or severe), of which 51% reported ⩾1 day of severe dyspareunia. Among sexually active women who reported any dyspareunia at baseline, both elagolix doses led to improvements in dyspareunia. Women in the 200-mg BID group showed more months at which the dyspareunia response rates were statistically significantly greater than placebo, particularly in a subgroup of women with severe dyspareunia at baseline. Compared to placebo, both elagolix doses led to statistically significantly greater improvements in the mean 30-item Endometriosis Health Profile sexual relationship module score.

Conclusion:

Up to 6 months of elagolix treatment improved dyspareunia in women with endometriosis-associated pain in a dose-dependent manner, with 200-mg BID dose showing the most significant improvements in dyspareunia and quality of sexual relationships compared with placebo.

Assessment of sexual dysfunction in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) represents a diverse variety of chronic inflammatory intestinal conditions. Sexuality is often disturbed in patients with IBD, more often affecting women than men. Many factors seem to contribute to intimacy concerns. The most popular questionnaires used in empirical research around the world are the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for women and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) for men. Sexual satisfaction was negatively correlated with depression, anxiety, sexual problems, and illness perceptions. When analysing the problem of IBD, disorders of sexual function should not be ignored. Patients should be screened for psychological diseases and sexual dysfunction, and necessary treatments should be given as soon as possible. By understanding what factors contribute to poor sexual functioning in patients with IBD, we may try to minimise adverse psychosocial events. Screening for sexual disorders should be a part of daily medical practice.

Evaluation of sexual function in Brazilian women with and without chronic pelvic pain

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate sexual function in women with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) compared to a control group without CPP and to investigate the factors associated with sexual dysfunction in women with CPP.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 100 women with CPP and 100 controls. Sexual function was evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and depression and anxiety using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). A generalized linear model was used to compare the groups with respect to the overall FSFI score and the scores obtained for each FSFI domain. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with sexual dysfunction in the study group.

Results

Anxiety was present in 66.0% of women with CPP in the study group compared to 49.0% of the controls (P=0.022). Depression was detected in 63.0% of women with CPP in the study group and in 38.0% of the controls (P=0.001). Sexual dysfunction was identified in 81.0% of the women with CPP in the study group compared to 58.0% of the controls (P=0.003). Following adjustment, the women with CPP had significantly lower mean scores compared to the controls in the FSFI domains of desire (3.0±1.3 vs 3.6±1.3; P=0.038), arousal (2.6±1.6 vs 3.4±1.9; P=0.002), lubrication (3.2±1.9 vs 3.7±2.3; P=0.011), orgasm (3.0±1.9 vs 3.6±2.2; P<0.002), and pain (2.5±1.7 vs 3.4±2.2; P<0.001). There was no difference between the groups for the satisfaction domain (P=0.337) or for the overall score (P=0.252). A positive and independent association was found between depression and sexual dysfunction in the women with CPP (P=0.012).

Conclusion

In the women with CPP, sexual dysfunction was more common, and the scores in most of the sexual function domains were poorer than in the control group. Concurrently, depression was found to be positively associated with sexual dysfunction in the women with CPP.

Interrelationships among endometriosis-related pain symptoms and their effects on health-related quality of life: a sectional observational study

Objective

To assess the correlation between different pain symptoms and different domains of women's health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods

Seventy-seven women with deep infiltrating endometriosis were successively enrolled between June 2011 and August 2013 while being prepared to undergo laparoscopy due to pain and/or infertility. We quantified the intensities of dysmenorrhea, deep dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain, and dyschezia (menstrual and non-menstrual) using a 11-point visual analog scale (VAS: 0-10) and the validated full versions of the Short Form 36 (SF36) and Endometriosis Health Profile (EHP30) questionnaires to assess HRQoL. The pain symptoms were considered simultaneously in a hierarchical agglomerative clustering method (exploratory multivariate approach) and the associations among scores were tested by bivariate correlation.

Results

Dysmenorrhea showed the lowest similarity on to the multivariate cluster analysis and no statistically significant correlation with the other pain symptoms: deep dyspareunia (P=0.244), chronic pelvic pain (P=0.108), menstrual dyschezia (P=0.238), and non-menstrual dyschezia (P=0.380). Dysmenorrhea and chronic pelvic pain were the main symptoms correlated with all domains of the SF36 and the EHP30 (core instrument) questionnaires (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Dysmenorrhea and chronic pelvic pain were independent factors associated with HRQoL.

Perfectionistic traits and importance given to parenthood are associated with infertility-related quality of life in a sample of infertile women with and without endometriosis

OBJECTIVE

To assess quality of life and psychological differences between infertile women with endometriosis and without endometriosis. To investigate predictive role of perfectionism, mindful awareness and beliefs about parenthood to quality of life in a sample of women with fertility problems.

METHODS

43 infertile women (22 with endometriosis; 21 without endometriosis) who recurred to Assisted Reproductive Treatments (ARTs) in the last 12 months took part to this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected by means of a structured ad hoc questionnaire. Fertility Quality of Life, Fertility Problem Inventory - Need of parenthood subscale, Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire - Perfectionism subscale, and Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness Scale - Revised were used to assess target outcomes.

RESULTS

Any difference in quality of life and psychological condition was found between infertile women with and without endometriosis. Importance given to parenthood (beta = -.60, p < .001) and perfectionism (beta = -.30, p < .05) predicted quality of life related to fertility issues, independently of group.

CONCLUSIONS

Infertility might elicit self-discrepancy between real-self (i.e. being infertile) and ideal-self (being fertile), which in turn has a negative impact on quality of life. Conclusions about the role of psychologist in ART's team are discussed.

Sexual function, anxiety and depression in women with benign breast disease. A case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent, affecting 40% of the female population. The incidence of such dysfunction is known to be higher among women with malignant breast disease and in patients with depression or anxiety. However, there are few data regarding the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among women with benign breast disease (BBD).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the incidence of sexual dysfunction, depression and anxiety among women with BBD, in comparison with that observed for healthy women.

METHOD

We evaluated the incidence of sexual dysfunction in 60 patients with benign breast disease (fibroadenomas, breast cysts, breast pain and phyllodes tumor) and 69 healthy women (control group). Participants completed the Sexual Quotient Questionnaire for Females (SQQ-F), the Beck Depression Inventory and the Beck Anxiety Inventory. Statistical analysis revealed that depression and anxiety were comparable between BBD and control groups (10.3 vs. 20.3% and 38.7 vs. 34.3%, respectively, p>0.05). The mean SQQ-F score (65.6±22.7 vs. 70.1±16.8; p>0.05) and sexual dysfunction (33.3 vs. 25.4%; p=0.324) were similar between BBD and control groups.

CONCLUSION

We found no differences between women with BBD and healthy women in terms of the incidence of sexual dysfunction, anxiety and depression. Nevertheless, given the high prevalence of this condition, it is important to assess sexual quality of life, as well as overall quality of life, in women with BBD.

Sexual Function and Quality of Life in Patients Affected by Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives

Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases and has an incidence of approximately 6%-10% in women of reproductive age. Deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) is considered the most aggressive form of endometriosis and is defined as a lesion that penetrates for more than 5 mm under the peritoneal surface. It has been demonstrated that DIE is associated with pelvic pain symptoms, and the intensity of pain is correlated with the depth of infiltration. Other symptoms are dysmenorrhea, deep dyspareunia, and painful defecation and urination. These symptoms are strongly associated with a significant reduction of the quality of life and a marked impairment of sexual function in the affected women. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach and psychological support for women affected by DIE appear mandatory in order to reduce the impact of the disease on quality of life and sexual function as much as possible.

What Is Known and Unknown About the Association Between Endometriosis and Sexual Functioning: A Systematic Review of the Literature

It is well known that endometriosis is associated with an increase in the risk of deep dyspareunia, with potential negative effects on global female sexual functioning and couple relationship. The aims of this study were to review the literature on the impact of endometriosis on female sexual functioning and to suggest new avenues for future research and treatment strategies. An electronic database research was performed to identify all the studies on the relation between endometriosis and sexual functioning published in the period 2000 to 2016. This systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. After the screening process, a total of 9 studies investigating the relation between endometriosis and female sexual functioning were considered. Overall, these studies indicated that around two thirds of women with endometriosis have some form of sexual dysfunction not limited to deep dyspareunia. These findings suggest that the global sexual impact of endometriosis requires further investigation, focusing not only on pain during intercourse but also on psychological and relational dimensions, including partner's sexual functioning. Because sexual functioning is a complex, multidimensional phenomenon, the ideal treatment for endometriosis-related sexual dysfunctions should be conducted by a multidisciplinary team composed of gynecologists, sexologists, and psychologists/psychotherapists.

Sexual function in endometriosis patients and their partners: effect of the disease and consequences of treatment

BACKGROUND

Sexual function is an important aspect of health and quality of life and is influenced by both medical conditions and health-care interventions, especially when gynecologic disorders are involved. Coital pain is among the main factors that affect sexual functioning, and this symptom is reported by almost half of women suffering from endometriosis. However, sexuality is a complex phenomenon driven by social, psychological and biological/hormonal factors and the presence of endometriosis might further affect domains of sexual function and the quality of a sexual relationship.

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

The objective of this report is to review the current state of knowledge on the impact that endometriosis and its treatments have on the sexual function of women and their sexual partners.

SEARCH METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed to identify studies evaluating sexual function in endometriosis patients, and a narrative analysis of results is presented. The review discusses relevant quantitative and qualitative studies analyzing the effect of endometriosis and its hormonal and surgical treatments on measures of sexual function and quality of sexual relationship.

OUTCOMES

Endometriosis negatively affects different domains of sexual function, and the presence of dyspareunia is not the only determinant of sexual health in these women. Chronic pelvic pain, advanced stages of disease and the presence of physical and mental comorbidities affect sexual function, as well as personality traits and women's expectations. Although a number of studies have evaluated the effect of surgery and hormonal treatment on deep dyspareunia, overall sexual function and quality of the relationship with the partner are often under-investigated.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

Multiple clinical and personal determinants affect sexual function in women with endometriosis, with potentially negative consequences on the sexual function of partners and quality of the relationship. Additional prospective and longitudinal investigations are warranted using specific instruments to analyze biopsychosocial variables of sexual pain in endometriosis patients and the effects that actual treatments have on measures of quality of sexual function and relationship.