In a nutshell
The study looked at the effect of injecting hyaluronic acid (HA) on sexual dysfunction of women with recurrent urinary tract infections (rUTIs). The study found that HA is effective in treating bladder symptoms and sexual dysfunction.
Some background
UTIs are infections of the bladder and ureters (tubes that carry urine out of the body) that commonly occur in women. Painful UTIs may cause sexual dysfunction. This can include pain during intercourse or problems with arousal.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a protein found normally in joints of the body. It may be used to prevent bacteria from sticking to the lining of the bladder and ureters. It is not clear whether HA would have an effect on sexual dysfunction in women with rUTIs.
Methods & findings
30 sexually active women were included in the study. HA was injected weekly to the bladder for 4 weeks and then monthly for 2 more treatments. Patients were reviewed at 3, 6 and 12 months.
57% of the patients with rUTIs had sexual dysfunction. There was improvement in sexual function in review at 3, 6, and 12 months when compared to before treatment. This improvement lasted for up to 12 months.
The bottom line
The study concluded that HA is a useful treatment to help with sexual dysfunction in women with rUTIs.
The fine print
The study had a small sample size and did not compare with a placebo (false treatment).
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about HA injections to help with sexual dysfunction if you suffer from rUTIs.
Published By :
European journal of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology
Date :
Dec 15, 2017
