Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the recall of pre-operative discussions about sexuality and to test for association with current sexual function for women who
have undergone risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO). To identify the information needs of women undergoing this procedure.
Method: Cross-sectional, questionnaire study of women who have undergone RRSO. The recollections of pre-operative discussion of specific topics were
assessed, as was the preferred amount of information. The questionnaire included open-ended questions requesting recommendations for improvement.
Previously collected data of sexual function for this study cohort was available.
Results: Sixty-one out of 102 eligible participants (60%) responded. Discussion of at least one topic of sexuality was recalled by 72% (n=44). No
association was observed between current sexual function and pre-operative discussion of sexuality (p=0.548). Older and post-menopausal women recalled
less pre-operative discussion of sexuality (p=0.005 and 0.023 respectively). Areas highlighted by participants for improvement were: access to additional
sources of information, timing of information given, psychological impact, surgical information, menopause management, and greater detail in general.
Conclusion: In this study there was no association between recollection of pre-operative discussions about sexuality and current sexual function. Healthcare
professionals counseling women prior to RRSO should consider recommending additional sources of information regarding the potential impact of surgery on
sexuality, such as written material and referral to a menopause clinic. It is important for healthcare professionals to acknowledge the psychological significance of RRSO and to allow women sufficient time to process information before surgery.
have undergone risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO). To identify the information needs of women undergoing this procedure.
Method: Cross-sectional, questionnaire study of women who have undergone RRSO. The recollections of pre-operative discussion of specific topics were
assessed, as was the preferred amount of information. The questionnaire included open-ended questions requesting recommendations for improvement.
Previously collected data of sexual function for this study cohort was available.
Results: Sixty-one out of 102 eligible participants (60%) responded. Discussion of at least one topic of sexuality was recalled by 72% (n=44). No
association was observed between current sexual function and pre-operative discussion of sexuality (p=0.548). Older and post-menopausal women recalled
less pre-operative discussion of sexuality (p=0.005 and 0.023 respectively). Areas highlighted by participants for improvement were: access to additional
sources of information, timing of information given, psychological impact, surgical information, menopause management, and greater detail in general.
Conclusion: In this study there was no association between recollection of pre-operative discussions about sexuality and current sexual function. Healthcare
professionals counseling women prior to RRSO should consider recommending additional sources of information regarding the potential impact of surgery on
sexuality, such as written material and referral to a menopause clinic. It is important for healthcare professionals to acknowledge the psychological significance of RRSO and to allow women sufficient time to process information before surgery.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 1011 |
| Journal | JSM Sexual Medicine |
| Volume | 2 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| Publication status | Published - 2017 |