Sexual function in men born with classic bladder exstrophy: a norm related study

Abstract

Purpose: We evaluated erectile function in men born with classic bladder exstrophy using a validated instrument and compared results with those in age matched controls.

Materials and methods: A total of 28 patients born with bladder exstrophy were invited to self-administer an Italian version of the International Index of Erectile Function-15 to assess erectile and orgasmic function, sexual desire and satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. A score of 25 or less of 30 in the erectile function domain was considered diagnostic for erectile dysfunction. Scores in patients with bladder exstrophy were compared with scores in 38 normal controls who self-administered the same questionnaire.

Results: A total of 19 men (68%) with a median age of 27.1 years (range 18.3 to 41.2) returned the questionnaire, of whom 11 (58%) presented with erectile dysfunction compared to 9 (23%) age matched controls (p = 0.02). Erectile dysfunction was more common in patients with bladder exstrophy who underwent multiple continence surgeries. Orgasmic function was also significantly lower in patients with bladder exstrophy than in controls (p = 0.001). No difference was observed between the groups in the sexual desire, sexual satisfaction and overall satisfaction domains.

Conclusions: Patients born with classic bladder exstrophy appear to have erectile dysfunction and decreased orgasmic function more commonly than normal controls, particularly when they underwent multiple continence surgeries. Sexual desire seems comparable to that of their peers. Eventually patients with bladder exstrophy seem to lead a sexual life that is as satisfactory as that of their peers.