Female Sexual Dysfunction in Bladder Cancer: A Scoping Review

What is it about?

This systematic scoping review examines the literature on sexual consequences of bladder cancer (BC) in female patients. The study found that female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has been reported in up to 75% of female patients. The use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) was inconsistent, and common symptoms emerged such as loss of desire, orgasmic disorders, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and reduced clitoral sensation. Sexual activity was reduced in most groups, and the degree of symptom distress associated with FSD is underreported. There was a gap for women in clinician counseling and follow-up. The study concludes that the patient's perspective of FSD in BC patients is poorly understood and under-addressed in clinical practice.

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Why is it important?

This research is important because it sheds light on the sexual consequences of bladder cancer (BC) in female patients, a topic that has been under-addressed in clinical practice. Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is estimated to affect 41% of the female population worldwide, and it is a complex problem that requires a complex intervention. Understanding the patient's perspective of FSD in BC patients is crucial for improving their quality of life, and this study aims to identify areas of unmet need and research priorities. Key Takeaways: 1. The patient's perspective of FSD in BC patients is poorly understood and under-addressed in clinical practice. 2. Inconsistent use of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) makes understanding the phenomenon challenging. 3. Common themes across treatment modalities include loss of desire/libido, orgasmic disorders, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, difficult intromission, reduced clitoral sensation, psychological concerns related to diagnosis, fear of contamination, and body image. 4. There is a gap in the measurement and counseling on FSD, and the patient's perspective is poorly measured and understood. 5. Any intervention designed to address the problem must start with a better understanding of the patients' perspective.