Changes in the sexual functions of male patients and their partners after obesity surgery

Sexual functionality significantly contributes to health-related quality of life and can decrease with obesity. In this study, we aimed to prospectively evaluate the changes that occur in the erection function, sexual function and testosterone level of male patients scheduled to undergo bariatric surgery, as well as the changes in the sexual function of their partner. A total of 40 patients and their partners were included. International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaire and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were filled before and 6 months after surgery by the male patients. The ASEX form was also completed by the partners before and 6 months after the procedure. The height and weight measurements and testosterone values were measured before and after surgery. A statistically significant difference was found between the preoperative and post-operative IIEF-5 scores of the patients (p = 0.000 < 0.01). There was also a statistically significant difference between the patients and their partners' preoperative and post-operative ASEX scores. We can conclude that the partners of men with preoperative erection complaints also experience sexual dysfunction, and with the post-operative decrease in or disappearance of erection complaints, the sexual function of both male patients and their partners improves.

Automated summary

This study found that male patients undergoing bariatric surgery experienced significant improvement in erection function and sexual function, with a corresponding improvement in the sexual function of their partners.