Sexual function after transvaginal cholecystectomy: a systematic review.

INTRODUCTION: Despite several benefits, patients are concerned that transvaginal cholecystectomy has a negative impact on sexual health. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the impact of transvaginal cholecystectomy on postoperative dyspareunia and sexual function.

METHOD: A literature search was performed in the PubMed and EMBASE databases. Papers reporting on postoperative dyspareunia, vaginal pain or discomfort, and sexual function were included.

RESULTS: Seventeen papers reported on dyspareunia and vaginal pain or discomfort. Two papers reported a rate of de novo dyspareunia of 3.8% and 12.5%, respectively. One study reported a nonsignificant reduction in painful sexual intercourse and the remaining 14 reported no incidents of dyspareunia. Eight papers reported on sexual function. One paper using a nonvalidated questionnaire found impaired sexual function. The papers that used validated questionnaires found no impairment of sexual function.

CONCLUSIONS: The risk of sexual dysfunction and dyspareunia after transvaginal cholecystectomy seems minimal. Well-designed studies using validated questionnaires are necessary to fully assess these types of complications.