Sexual dysfunction in female partners of men who have undergone radical prostatectomy correlates with sexual dysfunction of the male partner

Introduction. Preservation and restoration of erectile function after radical prostatectomy (RP) for prostate cancer has been extensively studied. However, the influence of RP on the sexual function of female partners is poorly understood. Aim. The purpose of this retrospective study is to assess sexuality in men who have undergone RP for prostate cancer and their female partners. Methods. Men who underwent RP for localized prostate cancer at our institution from 1996 to 2000 were identified and invited to participate in this study with their female partners. Both partners completed a demographic survey Men completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and female partners completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and supplemental questions. Main Outcome Measures. Correlation between IIEF and FSFI domain scores was determined in matched couples using Pearson correlation coefficient. Kappa statistics and Spearman correlation coefficient were calculated for supplemental questions and IIEF domain scores. Results. Of 1,134 men contacted by letter, 90 (8%) couples completed demographic surveys and both the IIEF/FSFI. Pearson correlation coefficients of IIEF and FSFI domain scores in matched couples demonstrated significant correlation (P < 0.05) of all IIEF domains with all FSFI domains with the exception of male erectile function and overall sexual function with female sexual desire. There was moderate agreement between partner supplemental questions and IIEF domain scores. Conclusions. Response rate was very low. FSFI domain scores correlate with IIEF domain scores, indicating an interrelationship between male and female sexual dysfunction in these couples. Evaluation and treatment of sexual dysfunction after RP should involve both partners.