VAGINAL MEASUREMENTS AND SEXUAL FUNCTION IN WOMEN BEFORE AND AFTER SURGERY FOR PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE

Abstract

This study included 60 patients having genital prolapse, who were admitted in Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital for vaginal surgery. The patients were classified into 3 equal groups, undergoing classical repair, vaginal hysterectomy and posterior colpoperineorrhaphy. The study included the preoperative assessment of sexual function of the patients as well as vaginal measurements; vaginal length (VL) and vaginal introital caliber (VIC). The assessment was done preoperative, 3 months and 6 months postoperative. Four variables were studied to assess sexual function in the patients; the frequency of sexual intercourse per week, sexual satisfaction, dyspareunia and the timing of first sexual intercourse after surgery. These variables were assessed before and after surgery using a questionnaire. As regards vaginal length, it was shortened apparently in group II (Vaginal hysterectomy) as it decreased from 10.6±0.6cm to 8.9±0.4 em. Postoperatively, while the change in vaginal length in group I (classical repair) and group III (posterior colpoperineorrhaphy) was statistically non significant. As regards vaginal introital caliber, it was significantly decreased in the 3 groups, the mean decrease was 1.4±0.4 em. The maximum decrease was in group I (classical repair) as it decreased from 11.8±1 to 9.8±0.5cm postoperatively.