Menstrual and sexual functions in female patients after sleeve gastrectomy due to obesity: obesity and sexual function

Purpose

Obesity is a systemic condition that is increasingly common. Obesity negatively affects sexual function and menstrual regularity. Therefore, losing excess weight is important for women's sexual and menstrual health.

Methods

The change in body mass index (BMI) and and excess weight loss (EWL) of sexually active female patients who underwent laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) were evaluated by a general surgeon. The preoperative and postoperative periods were compared by a gynecologist using the survey method menstrual patterns, dysmenorrhea complaints, if any, and sexual function with the Female Sexual Function Scale (FSFI).

Results

The study included 55 patients with a mean ± standard deviation BMI on the day of the operation of 45.32 ± 5.82 kg/m2. In the first postoperative year, the mean BMI significantly reduced to 27.88 ± 1.99 (p < 0.001). The mean percentage of EWL at the end of 1 year was 73.09 ± 19.74 after LSG. The median (range) preoperative FSFI score of the patients was 26.30 (22.70–27.70). One year after LSG, the median FSFI score significantly improved to 34.50 (30.20–35.30) (p < 0.001). Compared to the period before surgery, the frequency of sexual intercourse increased from two-to-three times a week (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Women's sexual desires are a fundamental human right and contribute to female well-being. Thus, it is important to treat sexual dysfunction. The results of the present study demonstrate a significant improvement in sexual dysfunctions after LSG. LSG was an effective procedure that may be recommended to obese women with sexual dysfunction and menstrual problems.

Graphical abstract