Ali, Muna

ABSTRACT Background As survival following solid organ transplantation (SOT) improves, attention has shifted to survivorship and quality of life (QoL) outcomes. Sexual function is an important component of women's health in transplant recipients. In the general population, sexual distress affects approximately 10%–15% of midlife women. Female SOT recipients may experience additional risk for sexual dysfunction related to surgery, body image, and immunosuppression. However, sexual health in this population remains understudied. This study assessed sexual function and its impact on QoL among female SOT recipients by menopausal status. Methods A cross‐sectional study of female SOT recipients aged ≥ 18 years was conducted at a single tertiary transplant center from 2018 to 2023. Participants were within five years of kidney, liver, or pancreas transplantation. Validated questionnaires included female sexual function index (FSFI), female sexual distress scale (FSDS), menopause rating scale (MRS), linear analog scale assessment (LASA). Respondents were categorized as premenopausal or peri/postmenopausal. Sexual function, distress, and QoL were compared between groups, with exploratory analyses stratified by current sexual activity status. Results The survey response rate was approximately 30%. Among 277 respondents, peri/postmenopausal patients were less likely to be sexually active (48.9% vs 69.4%, p = 0.002). They reported lower desire, arousal, and lubrication scores, and higher sexual distress than premenopausal SOT recipients. While overall QoL was rated highly across both groups, sexual distress negatively correlated with QoL across menopausal groups. Among the entire cohort, most women (≈74%) had not been asked about sexual health by any provider in the past year. Conclusion Sexual dysfunction is common among female SOT recipients and is associated with menopausal status, with higher rates observed than those reported in the general population. These findings highlight the importance of integrating sexual health into posttransplant survivorship care.

Abstract Introduction Sexual pain has a profound impact on individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, and affects women more often than men. It adversely affects both sexual function and interpersonal relationships. Despite its prevalence, sexual pain in women often remains unaddressed and untreated. Various underlying causes contribute to sexual pain, sometimes involving multiple factors. We explore treatment options and offer clinical insights into the evaluation and management of 4 common conditions which cause sexual pain in women. In this article, we use the term “women” to indicate cisgender women. Objectives Our aim is to highlight the most common clinical scenarios of sexual pain and provide comprehensive discussions on each, to improve patient care and outcomes in the management of sexual pain. Methods We conducted a comprehensive review of literature and clinical cases to explore the various causes and management strategies for sexual pain in women. We systematically searched databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and relevant medical journals. We included peer-reviewed articles, case studies, and clinical trials published between 2000 and 2023. Additionally, we analyzed real-life cases from our clinical practice at our academic institution. Results Our review identified various factors contributing to sexual pain in women, ranging from hormonal imbalances to neuroproliferative and inflammatory conditions affecting the genitourinary system. Each case should be approached individually to offer optimal management strategies accordingly. Conclusion The management of sexual pain in women requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the multifactorial nature of the condition. Patient education and counseling play a crucial role in the management of sexual pain, empowering individuals to advocate for their own health and well-being. The collaboration between healthcare providers and patients can improve our understanding and management of this complex condition.