Sexual function following anal sphincteroplasty for fecal incontinence

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to assess sexual function following anal sphincteroplasty and determine associations between sexual function and fecal incontinence. STUDY DESIGN: Women 1 year or longer following anal sphincteroplasty with or without other reconstructive surgery were matched to controls. Subjects were mailed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life (FIQOL), Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI), and a general questionnaire. RESULTS: Twenty-six cases and 26 controls responded; 73% were sexually active. Sexual function scores were similar between the groups. Seventeen sphincteroplasty patients and 8 controls complained of fecal incontinence at follow up. Significant correlations were found between FSFI domains and the FIQOL depression/self-perception scale, FISI fecal incontinence of solid stool, and total FISI. CONCLUSION: Sexual activity and function was similar following anal sphincteroplasty, compared with controls, despite worse symptoms of fecal incontinence. Fecal incontinence of solid stool and depression related to fecal incontinence were correlated with poorer sexual function.