Female Sexual Dysfunction in Women After Treatment of Cervical Dysplasia

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer worldwide and accounted for approximately 570,000 new cancer cases and 311,000 cancer deaths in 2018. Despite advances in screening algorithms many US women undergo excisional cervical procedures for the treatment of cervical dysplasia. The effects of loop electrosurgical excisional procedure (LEEP) and cold knife conization (CKC) on sexual function are relatively unknown. Objectives: To conduct a comprehensive review of the literature regarding the effects cervical cancer screening and treatment on female sexual function and satisfaction Methods: We conducted a review of the medical literature up to and including November 2021 on PubMED using search terms related to cervical dysplasia and sexual health. We identified 831 articles and selected 39 articles for inclusion in our review. Nine studies were included that specifically focused on the effect of loop electrosurgical excisional procedure (LEEP) on female sexual function. Results: Multiple studies demonstrated adverse psychologic and sexual effects in patients with cervical dysplasia and after colposcopy. Some studies reported that women experience decreased arousal and interest 6 months following colposcopy. Several studies documented adverse effects on lubrication, sexual pain, and desire following LEEP. Conclusions: There is a lack of high quality research on the effect of LEEP and colposcopy on female sexual function. Important limitations in the review of the current literature include, a small sample size, inconsistent comparison groups, observer bias, and lack the use of standardized questionnaires. Clinicians should continue to provide patients education regarding the risks and benefits of different treatment modalities and potential for effects on sexual function should be included in comprehensive counseling. Copyright (C) 2022, International Society of Sexual Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer worldwide, but the effects of its treatment on female sexual function are relatively unknown. Current research on this topic has limitations, including small sample sizes, inconsistent comparison groups, and observer bias. Clinicians should educate patients about the risks and potential effects on sexual function when discussing treatment options.