Female Partners of Men with Peyronie's Disease Have Impaired Sexual Function, Satisfaction, and Mood, While Degree of Sexual Interference Is Associated with Worse Outcomes

Abstract

Introduction Peyronie's disease (PD) causes penile deformity and can result in sexual dysfunction and psychological distress. Currently, nothing is known about the psychosexual impact on the partners of men with PD. Research carried out on the partners of men with other chronic illnesses suggests that the partners of men with PD might have increased rates of sexual dysfunction and decreased sexual satisfaction. Aims To examine (i) sexual functioning, sexual satisfaction, negative affect, and relationship satisfaction of men with PD and their female partners and (ii) the effect of male-perceived sexual interference on partners' outcomes. Methods Forty-four men diagnosed with PD and their female partners completed a questionnaire package. Main Outcome Measures Each partner filled out the Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale, the Positive and Negative Affect Scale, the Global Measure of Sexual Satisfaction, and the Female Sexual Function Index (women) or the International Index of Erectile Function (men). Results Overall, partners of men with PD were found to have decreased sexual function, sexual satisfaction, and mood compared with population-based norms. Men and their partners showed non-distressed levels of relationship satisfaction. The degree to which PD interfered with sexual activity was an important correlate of outcomes. Increased sexual interference was associated with lower sexual function and satisfaction for the person experiencing interference. Sexual interference also was associated with negative affect and relationship satisfaction in partners and the person experiencing interference. Conclusion PD is associated with negative psychosexual and psychosocial effects on those with the disease and their partners. As a result, assessment and intervention should include the two members of the couple.

Does Intralesional Injection of Clostridium Histolyticum affect the Treatment Practice of Peyronie’s Disease?

“…Penile curvature and pain during erection present a significant bothersome issue for both men with PD and their partner [6][7][8].…”

What about the partner? —factors associated with patient-perceived partner dyspareunia in men with Peyronie’s disease

“…Prior reports have suggested that up to 54% of men with PD have relationship problems, with risk factors being loss of penile length, low libido and penile pain ( 5 ). Female partners of men with PD have also been found to have decreased sexual function, sexual satisfaction and mood compared with population-based norms ( 10 ). Partners may also directly impact the patients’ decisions to correct their deformities, which is supported by our finding that those experiencing partner pain were more likely to consider surgical intervention or other invasive therapies.…”

2018 Canadian Urological Association guideline for Peyronie's disease and congenital penile curvature

“…11 Numerous studies have now demonstrated significant distress in patients suffering with PD as well as their partners (both heterosexual and same sex partnerships). [12][13][14] Other studies have demonstrated significant findings on depression scales, with Nelson et al reporting that 47% of men with PD reported clinically meaningful depression. [15][16] Men with PD report embarrassment and shame, and may avoid sexual relationships; this may take a tremendous toll on their quality of life.…”