The effect of spinal cord level on sexual function in the spina bifida population

Limited information is known about adults with SB, and sexual function and fertility. While expressing sexual desire, adults with SB appear to experience high rates of sexual dysfunction. Fertility rates were inadequately assessed; this was possibly due to the high rate of sexual dysfunction. Sexual health in the SB population is an important component of the myriad of urologic care issues for these people. Due to the disparity in their care after reaching adulthood, it is prudent to follow these patients and understand their pathophysiology as they continue to mature through life.Table. Female FSFI and male IIEF survey results.Female Sexual Function Index for women: variable (score range) n = 28Median (interquartile range)P-value for spinal level, ambulatory levelFemale Sexual Function Index: full scale score (range 2-26)5.0 (2.7-17.2)0.40, 0.57Sexual desire (range 2-10)4.0 (2.0-6.0)0.77, 0.48Arousal (range 0-20)0.0 (0.0-6.3)-Lubrication (range 0-20)0.0 (0.0-7.0)-Orgasm (range 0-15)0.0 (0.0-3.5)-Satisfaction (range 0-15)4.0 (1.5-9.5)0.72, 0.71Pain (range 0-15)0.0 (0.0-12.3)-International Index of Erectile Function for men: variable (score range) n = 17Median (interquartile range)P-value for spinal level, ambulatory levelSexual Health Inventory for Men: score (range 1-25)5.0 (1.0-12.0)0.02, 0.15Erectile function (range 1-30)5.0 (1.0-13.0)0.02, 0.26Orgasmic function (range 1-10)1.0 (0.0-5.0)-Sexual desire (range 2-10)5.0 (2.0-8.0)0.36, 0.83Intercourse satisfaction (range 0-15)0.0 (0.0-0.0)-Overall satisfaction (range 2-10)3.0 (2.0-4.0)0.046, 0.33