Elective ovarian removal and estrogen replacement therapy--effects on sexual life, psychological well-being and androgen status

J. Nathorst Böös, J Nathorst-Böös, Bo von Schoultz, B von Schoultz, K Carlström, Kjell Carlström
Journal of psychosomatic obstetrics and gynaecology · 1993 · vol. 14(4) , pp. 283–293 · doi:10.3109/01674829309084451 · PMID:8142982 · W2029746501
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Oophorectomized women experienced impaired sexual function, but estrogen replacement therapy improved psychological well-being without restoring sexual function, and IGF-1 correlated with sexual activity.

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Abstract

Conflicting data have been reported on the psychosexual impact of hysterectomy combined with bilateral oophorectomy. Three age-matched, hysterectomized groups of women were investigated: Group A (n = 33): oophorectomized, not receiving estrogen replacement therapy (ERT); Group B (n = 33): oophorectomized, receiving ERT; and Group C (n = 35): ovaries preserved and not receiving ERT. The McCoy Sexual Rating Scale and the Psychological General Well-Being Index as well as a semi-structured interview were used to assess postoperative experience with respect to libido, vaginal lubrication, ability of getting pleasure from intercourse, and ability to achieve orgasm. Serum concentrations of total and free testosterone, insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), sex hormone binding globulin, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate and 4-androstene-3,17-dione were determined. In oophorectomized women sexual life was impaired as compared to those with intact ovaries and these women complained about less pleasure from coitus, impaired libido and lubrication. Regardless of whether estrogens were administered or not a similar pattern was found, indicating that estrogens are of little value in treating these specific sexual dysfunctions. Oophorectomized women receiving ERT reported less anxiety and depression and more well-being similar to women whose ovaries had been preserved. No correlation was found between psychosexual variables and biochemical androgen markers. However, the IGF-I levels were strongly correlated to sexual activity and responsiveness.

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die_deep_infiltrating

MeSH descriptors

Androgens Estrogen Replacement Therapy Hysterectomy Libido Ovariectomy Sexual Behavior Adaptation, Psychological Adaptation, Psychological Androgens Anxiety Anxiety Anxiety Depression Depression Depression Estrogen Replacement Therapy Female Humans Hysterectomy Libido

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