Effect of Laparoscopic Hysterectomy on Female Sexual Functions by Comparing their Preoperative and Post-Operative Sexual Performances using Female Sexual Function Index

Background: Hysterectomy is the most commonly performed gynecological procedure. It can affect female sexual functions in a number of ways mainly because of disruption of local nerve and blood supply and intimate anatomical relationship of pelvic organs. We intend to evaluate the effect of total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) on female sexual function by comparing their preoperative and postoperative sexual performances using female sexual function index (FSFI). Materials and methods: The study was carried out in 50 hysterectomised patients over the duration of one year. Their sexual functions were assessed preoperatively prior to their admission in hospital. Then once hysterectomy is done, their postoperative sexual performances were assessed over the last four weeks period at least four months after their hysterectomy, using FSFI. Results: Out of 50 patients, 39 patients had undergone TLH with ovarian conservation and 11 had undergone TLH with bilateral salpingoophorectomy (BSO). Out of 50 participants, 27 had scores of less than 26 using FSFI, but after hysterectomy, 14 participants had scores of less than 26. The overall score using FSFI was improved from 24.26±2.2 to 28.11±2.2 (p-value <0.0001). Conclusion: Women can be positively reassured that hysterectomy performed for benign reasons does not negatively affect sexuality. TLH is less invasive in terms of causing damage to various pelvic nerves and vessels and hence causes less-to-no effect on female sexual functions. Key words: Hysterectomy, Sexual functions, Dyspareunia, Libido