Comparison of sexual function in women with endometrial cancer and their partners following surgery versus surgery additional brachytherapy: a cross-sectional study from a tertiary care center

Abstract

Background

This study aimed to compare female sexual function and male partner sexual satisfaction between endometrial cancer patients treated with surgery alone and those receiving additional brachytherapy.

Methods

Sixty-nine patients were included. Group 1 ( n = 34) received adjuvant brachytherapy after surgery; Group 2 ( n = 35) underwent surgery only. Participants completed a structured questionnaire including socio-demographic and clinical data, along with validated instruments: the Female Sexual Function Index and the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale for partners.

Results

The mean age was significantly higher in the brachytherapy group (61.71 ± 7.88 vs. 56.54 ± 8.74 years; p = 0.012). Gravidity ( p = 0.029) and parity ( p = 0.013) were also higher in this group, while body mass index was similar ( p = 0.118). Female sexual function index scores [2 (2–20.3) vs. 2 (2–19.6); p = 0.459] and new sexual satisfaction scale scores [20 (20–83) vs. 20 (20–90); p = 0.492] showed no significant differences. Female sexual function index subdomain scores were also comparable. Tumor grade and stage significantly differed between groups, as did surgical approach and lymphadenectomy rates.

Conclusion

Sexual function was negatively affected in all endometrial cancer patients, with a more pronounced impact among those receiving brachytherapy and their partners. These findings highlight the need to consider sexual health in treatment planning and to implement supportive interventions such as psychosexual counseling, particularly for patients undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy.