Improvement of sexual function after transobturator tape procedure in women with stress urinary incontinence

Sling procedures are a widely proven treatment for stress urinary incontinence. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the effect of the transobturator tape on female sexual functioning. Fifty-four women treated for stress urinary incontinence with transobturator tape filled out self-administered questionnaires on quality of life, urinary incontinence, and sexual function prior to surgery and 6 weeks and 12 months postoperatively. Preoperatively, 40 women (78%) were sexually active. There were no significant postoperative changes regarding frequency of sexual activity, sexual desire, and problems with lubrication or orgasm. Preoperatively, 55% reported urinary leakage during sexual activity and after surgery 6.5%. Sexual satisfaction was significantly improved 6 weeks (p= 0.05) and 12 months (p= 0.03) postoperatively. Pain during or after sexual activity was declined, only one patient reported worsening of pain. The transobturator tape procedure has a positive effect on female sexual functioning by reducing urinary leakage and pain during or after sexual activity. It seems to improve the overall sexual satisfaction. Further research is warranted to support these preliminary findings.