RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 An observational longitudinal study to evaluate miction, defecation, and sexual function after radical hysterectomy with pelvic lymphadenectomy for early-stage cervical cancer
JF International Journal of Gynecologic Cancer
JO Int J Gynecol Cancer
FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
SP 1119
OP 1129
DO 10.1136/ijgc-00009577-200605000-00027
VO 16
IS 3
A1 Q. D. Pieterse
A1 C. P. Maas
A1 M. M. Ter Kuile
A1 M. Lowik
A1 M. A. Van Eijkeren
A1 J. B.M.Z. Trimbos
A1 G. G. Kenter
YR 2006
UL http://ijgc.bmj.com/content/16/3/1119.abstract
AB The objective of this study was to evaluate the problems with miction, defecation, and sexuality after a radical hysterectomy with or without adjuvant radiotherapy for the treatment of cervical cancer stage I–IIA. This study included an observational longitudinal study of self-reported bladder, defecation, and sexual problems with a baseline score. Ninety-four women were included in the study. An age-matched control group consisted of 224 women. The patients showed significantly more negative effects on sexual function compared with both the controls and their situation before the treatment throughout 24 months of follow-up. The problems included less lubrication, a narrow and short vagina, senseless areas around the labia, dyspareunia, and sexual dissatisfaction. Up to 12 months after the treatment, the patients complained significantly more of little or no urge to urinate and diarrhea as compared with the controls. Adjuvant radiotherapy did not increase the risk of bladder dysfunction, colorectal motility disorders, and sexual functions. We conclude that a radical hysterectomy for the treatment of early-stage cervical carcinoma is associated with adverse effects mainly on sexual functioning.