Sexuality after sigmoid vaginoplasty in patients with Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the functional and sexual outcome of sigmoid vaginoplasty in patients with Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome.

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PATIENT(S): Fifty-nine consecutive patients with MRKH syndrome.

INTERVENTION(S): Forty-eight patients underwent sigmoid vaginoplasty, and 11 were treated using the Frank method of dilatation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Functional results and sexuality were evaluated with the use of two standardized questionnaires: the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the revised Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS-R). Questions were added to analyze depression, body image perception, and desire of motherhood.

RESULT(S): Out of the 68% of patients who answered the questionnaire, 73% had regular sexual intercourse. The mean total FSFI score was 28 ± 3.1 in the operated group and 30 ± 5.3 in the group treated with the Frank method. Their mean FSDS-R scores were 21 ± 12.1 and 18 ± 13.8, respectively.

CONCLUSION(S): Sigmoid vaginoplasty is an effective technique providing a nearly normal sexual function to patients with vaginal aplasia. Despite this, psychologic distress related to sexuality persists in most patients, demonstrating the need for a multidisciplinary support.