A decrease in vaginal sensations after sling procedures

This study evaluated sensory changes in the vaginal region after a vaginal sling procedure. Researchers reported a decrease in clitoral and vaginal sensations among women undergoing sling procedures. 

Vaginal sling procedures are the most common type of surgery for stress urinary incontinence. Tension-free vaginal tape-obturator (TVT-O) surgery is the current standard of care. It involves the placement of a thin mesh tape to lift the urethra to its normal position. TVT-O procedures are associated with high rates of treatment success.

However, the placement of a vaginal sling can sometimes damage nerve endings in the vaginal wall. This can interfere with sensory stimulation. Ultimately, it could affect arousal and sexual function. Further studies are needed to examine sensory changes after sling procedures.

This study included 18 women with stress urinary incontinence. All women underwent treatment with a TVT-O procedure. 83% of the women were sexually active before the procedure. Warm, cold, and vibratory sensations were measured in areas of the clitoral and vaginal areas. Measurements were taken 1 day before, and again 1 year after, the procedure.

Urinary symptoms and general sexual function were significantly improved after TVT-O. However, the procedure did affect vaginal sensations. Warm, cold, and vibratory sensations at the clitoris were all found to be reduced 1 year after the procedure. There was also a reduction in warm sensation at the vaginal wall.

Researchers concluded that women undergoing TVT-O for stress urinary incontinence showed a decrease in vaginal and clitoral sensations. Further studies are needed to examine how this sensory loss affects quality of life. 

Larger trials are needed to confirm these preliminary results.