Title : Exploring the effects of amniotic bladder therapy on female sexual dysfunction in interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome patients
Abstract:
Introduction and Objectives: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a commonly associated issue in patients with Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS). FSD manifests through various abnormalities in sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, pain, distress, and satisfaction. We previously detailed the benefits of intra-detrusor micronized amniotic membrane (AM) injections in alleviating lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in IC/BPS patients. In this study, our primary objective was to assess the impact of the micronized AM injections on FSD and LUTS using comprehensive measures, including the multi-domain Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Pain Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index (ICSI) and Interstitial Cystitis Problem Index (ICPI).
Methods: Study participants included patients diagnosed with IC/BPS and refractory FSD, unresponsive to therapeutic interventions. Under general anesthesia, these patients received intra-detrusor injections of reconstituted 100mg micronized AM. We collected data on ICSI, ICPI, FSFI, and VAS scores before the procedure and at 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks post-injection. Our primary study endpoint was the impact of amniotic bladder therapy (ABT) on sexual function, with a parallel evaluation of injection safety.
Results: Eleven consecutive patients, with an average age of 49 ± 12 years, demonstrated progressive improvements in their baseline IC/BPS symptoms over the 24-week study duration. These improvements were mirrored by enhanced FSFI scores, and reduced pain (VAS) related to intercourse over the 24-week study period. No adverse events were observed.
Conclusions: Our findings suggest that ABT therapy holds promise for IC/BPS patients, particularly females grappling with severe FSD symptoms. However, further research is imperative to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms through which ABT effectively addresses these complex disorders. Additionally, the long-term durability of this treatment response warrants investigation.
Audience Take Away:
- Comprehensive Understanding of ABT Impact: Attendees will gain insights into the transformative potential of Amniotic Bladder Therapy (ABT) in addressing both Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) and Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) in patients with Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS). The presentation will detail the study's findings on the positive changes observed in IC/BPS symptoms and improvements in various domains of sexual function.
- Clinical Application of ABT in IC/BPS Patients: Healthcare professionals will learn about the practical application of ABT as a potential therapeutic intervention for IC/BPS patients, particularly those struggling with severe FSD symptoms. Understanding the methodology and positive outcomes of the study will equip clinicians with valuable information that can be directly applied in their clinical practice.
- Dual-Benefit Approach to Patient Care: The presentation highlights the dual benefits of ABT, offering a comprehensive approach to patient care by simultaneously addressing LUTS and FSD. Attendees will gain insights into how this integrated therapeutic strategy can enhance the quality of life for IC/BPS patients facing challenges in both urinary and sexual health.
- Future Research Directions: The presentation will display promising results while emphasizing the need for further research to unravel the mechanisms of ABT and investigate the long-term durability of treatment responses, providing potential avenues for future research initiatives.
