Change in Sexual Dysfunction Following Bariatric Surgery

Abstract

Obesity is associated with multiple comorbidities and psychosocial burdens, but often sexual dysfunction (SD) is overlooked. Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment for morbid obesity, and its role in reversing SD is reviewed. A literature search of MEDLINE, PubMed Central, and Cochrane databases was conducted. Fifty-six articles were identified and 32 selected for inclusion. SD was measured via hormonal studies, questionnaires, and a combination of both (n = 14 males SD studies, n = 13 female SD studies, 5 = both sexes). There is an exponential rise in patients reporting post-surgical improvements in SD in both genders. The emerging use of quality of life indices to measure sexual function as part of a more global enjoyment of life may be a helpful adjunct to existing hormonal and sex-specific measures.