Preserved sexual function with water vapor thermal therapy for benign prostatic hyperplasia

This study aimed to investigate the effect on sexual function of water vapor therapy for the treatment of urinary symptoms from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This study found that water vapor therapy is effective and does not affect sexual function for men with BPH. 

Urinary symptoms caused by BPH (non-cancerous overgrowth of the prostate) can be treated using medications. These medications can be associated with loss of sexual function. This can include an inability to achieve an orgasm or to maintain an erection.

Another option for these patients is water vapor therapy (Rez?m?). This is the use of steam to treat this extra prostate tissue. It can be performed in a clinic or outpatient setting. It is unclear if water vapor therapy has less impact on sexual function compared to medication.

This study included 1209 sexually active men who were treated with medications and 86 who had water vapor therapy. They filled out questionnaires evaluating sexual function over three years. Medications used include doxazosin (Cardura), finasteride (Propecia) or a combination of the two.

Patients using medications had a worsening over time of sexual desire, erectile function, and overall sexual satisfaction.  Water vapor therapy was not associated with significant negative changes in sexual function during the 3 years after treatment.

This study found that water vapor therapy was effective and did not affect sexual function for men with urinary symptoms from BPH. 

This study included information from patients in two different clinical trials that used different questionnaires evaluating sexual function.