(018) Is Female Sexual Dysfunction an Important Factor in Physician Process of Care and Decision-Making for Common Gynecologic Procedures: An Interview Study.

This article examines how physicians incorporate concerns about female sexual dysfunction (SD) into their decision-making and care processes for two common gynecologic procedures: the mid-urethral sling (MUS) for stress urinary incontinence and cervical conization, specifically the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP), for cervical dysplasia. Through interviews with six Canadian specialists, the study found variability in physicians' definitions of SD and inconsistent integration of evidence regarding post-operative sexual health risks into patient counseling and care. While most physicians acknowledged potential negative impacts on female sexual functioning (FSF), comprehensive assessments or standardized discussions of these risks were generally lacking. The findings highlight a need for standardized protocols addressing sexual health counseling and assessment in the context of MUS and LEEP procedures.