James A Simon, Rossella E Nappi, Peter Chedraui, Amanda L Clark, Anne Gompel, Shaikh Zinnat Ara Nasreen, Santiago Palacios, Wendy Wolfman
Introduction: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) encompasses a cluster of sexual symptoms like dyspareunia associated with genital and urinary symptoms like urinary urgency, which may be variably reported in the clinical setting.
Objectives: To provide a comprehensive guide for healthcare professionals (HCPs) in sexual medicine, helping them effectively recognize and manage GSM, a very common chronic and progressive condition with an impact on quality of life and intimate relationships.
Methods: An expert committee, invited from seven countries by the 5th International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM), was comprised of eight researchers and clinicians with expertise in menopause medicine, for the purpose of reviewing and grading the scientific evidence on nosology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of GSM.
Results: Presence of at least one GSM symptom ranges from 14% to 87% in postmenopausal women, with vaginal dryness and dyspareunia being the two most common symptoms. A summary of the recommendations on GSM management deriving from the evaluation of data, subject to its quality published in the scientific literature, is provided.
Conclusions: GSM is a relatively new disorder with an expanded definition to further the older long-recognized condition of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) in postmenopausal women to include urinary symptoms and anchor the disorder to menopause and the hypoestrogenic state. This new disorder has provided renewed incentives to formalize a significant amount of multidisciplinary research in the last decade. However, many areas ranging from epidemiology to tailored effective and safe treatment options in clinical practice still require in-depth additional investigations.
{"title":"Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM): recommendations from the Fifth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM 2024).","authors":"James A Simon, Rossella E Nappi, Peter Chedraui, Amanda L Clark, Anne Gompel, Shaikh Zinnat Ara Nasreen, Santiago Palacios, Wendy Wolfman","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf055","DOIUrl":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf055","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) encompasses a cluster of sexual symptoms like dyspareunia associated with genital and urinary symptoms like urinary urgency, which may be variably reported in the clinical setting.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>To provide a comprehensive guide for healthcare professionals (HCPs) in sexual medicine, helping them effectively recognize and manage GSM, a very common chronic and progressive condition with an impact on quality of life and intimate relationships.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>An expert committee, invited from seven countries by the 5th International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM), was comprised of eight researchers and clinicians with expertise in menopause medicine, for the purpose of reviewing and grading the scientific evidence on nosology, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of GSM.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Presence of at least one GSM symptom ranges from 14% to 87% in postmenopausal women, with vaginal dryness and dyspareunia being the two most common symptoms. A summary of the recommendations on GSM management deriving from the evaluation of data, subject to its quality published in the scientific literature, is provided.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>GSM is a relatively new disorder with an expanded definition to further the older long-recognized condition of vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) in postmenopausal women to include urinary symptoms and anchor the disorder to menopause and the hypoestrogenic state. This new disorder has provided renewed incentives to formalize a significant amount of multidisciplinary research in the last decade. However, many areas ranging from epidemiology to tailored effective and safe treatment options in clinical practice still require in-depth additional investigations.</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145114144","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Introduction: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent condition commonly seen by urologists, significantly affecting the sexual health of many patients. Although phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5Is) remain the only FDA-approved treatment for ED, there are several experimental pharmacological targets under investigation that may benefit patients unresponsive to PDE5Is.
Objectives: This review aims to identify alternative pharmacological targets to phosphodiesterase-5 for treating ED and explore the biochemical mechanisms that regulate these targets to develop future therapeutics.
Methods: A literature search was conducted on PubMed to synthesize information from various sources into this review. Keywords and phrases were searched in PubMed including "erectile dysfunction," "nitric oxide," "Rho-kinase pathway," "JAK-STAT pathway," and "alternative targets to phosphodiesterase-5." Studies more recently published were prioritized to account for clinical relevance, and information was cross-checked with numerous peer-reviewed articles to support credibility and reliability.
Results: Promising emerging pathways and mechanisms for ED treatment are rising to clinical prominence, including the Rho-kinase and JAK-STAT pathways, nitric oxide and dopamine neurotransmitters, and calcium-regulated ion channels. These alternative targets offer potential for managing ED, particularly in cases where comorbid conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes are present.
Conclusion: The interplay between these pathways and related diagnoses underscores the potential for developing innovative and effective ED therapies for urologists to apply in the clinical environment. Notably, nitric oxide and the Rho-kinase pathway have surfaced as leading alternatives to PDE5Is, introducing new strategies for enhancing erectile function through unique biochemical processes.
{"title":"Beyond type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitors: potential alternative pharmacotherapy targets for erectile dysfunction.","authors":"Hassan S Choudhry, Kunj Jain, Amjad Alwaal","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeag001","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/sxmrev/qeag001","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent condition commonly seen by urologists, significantly affecting the sexual health of many patients. Although phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5Is) remain the only FDA-approved treatment for ED, there are several experimental pharmacological targets under investigation that may benefit patients unresponsive to PDE5Is.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This review aims to identify alternative pharmacological targets to phosphodiesterase-5 for treating ED and explore the biochemical mechanisms that regulate these targets to develop future therapeutics.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A literature search was conducted on PubMed to synthesize information from various sources into this review. Keywords and phrases were searched in PubMed including \"erectile dysfunction,\" \"nitric oxide,\" \"Rho-kinase pathway,\" \"JAK-STAT pathway,\" and \"alternative targets to phosphodiesterase-5.\" Studies more recently published were prioritized to account for clinical relevance, and information was cross-checked with numerous peer-reviewed articles to support credibility and reliability.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Promising emerging pathways and mechanisms for ED treatment are rising to clinical prominence, including the Rho-kinase and JAK-STAT pathways, nitric oxide and dopamine neurotransmitters, and calcium-regulated ion channels. These alternative targets offer potential for managing ED, particularly in cases where comorbid conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes are present.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The interplay between these pathways and related diagnoses underscores the potential for developing innovative and effective ED therapies for urologists to apply in the clinical environment. Notably, nitric oxide and the Rho-kinase pathway have surfaced as leading alternatives to PDE5Is, introducing new strategies for enhancing erectile function through unique biochemical processes.</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146126630","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Catarina A Nóbrega, Inês Tavares, Ana Luísa Quinta-Gomes
Introduction: Orgasm experience is associated with greater sexual and relational well-being within couples' relationships. In the context of a partnered sexual relationship, this dimension of the sexual response has been mainly studied from an individualistic perspective, with few studies adopting a dyadic approach.
Objectives: This scoping review aims to review and synthesize the literature that has examined orgasm as a predictor of sexual and relational well-being in dyadic contexts.
Methods: Following the Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-Scoping Review guidelines, a database search was conducted on EBSCOhost, Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and SciELO databases using key terms related to "orgasm" and "dyadic."
Results: A total of 280 articles were identified, and 9 fulfilled eligibility criteria and were included in this review. All studies sampled couples using a dyadic design. All studies employed cross-sectional designs and predominantly reflected different-gender/sex heterosexual couples, and all participants were cisgender. Findings showed that orgasm is consistently linked to both sexual and relational well-being in dyadic contexts. Orgasm frequency and its subjective experiences were associated with individual and partner sexual satisfaction, with some effects mediated by sexual communication. Relational outcomes were also shaped by the importance attributed to orgasm and by the (mis)perception of the partner's orgasm. Notably, gendered patterns emerged, particularly within different-gender/sex couples, highlighting the centrality of women's orgasm in shaping both partners' wellbeing.
Conclusions: Future research might focus on orgasm as a dyadic experience, include individuals with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, and adopt daily-diary designs to capture the unique orgasm experiences as they unfold in couples' daily lives.
导言:性高潮体验与夫妻关系中更大的性和关系幸福有关。在伴侣性关系的背景下,性反应的这一维度主要是从个人主义的角度来研究的,很少有研究采用二元的方法。目的:这篇综述的目的是回顾和综合研究了性高潮在二元环境下作为性和关系健康的预测因子的文献。方法:根据系统评价和meta - analysis - scoping Review的首选报告项目指南,在EBSCOhost、Web of Science、Scopus、PubMed和SciELO数据库中使用与“性高潮”和“二元”相关的关键术语进行数据库检索。结果:共纳入280篇文献,其中9篇符合入选标准,纳入本综述。所有的研究都采用二元设计对夫妇进行抽样。所有研究均采用横断面设计,主要反映不同性别/性别的异性恋夫妇,所有参与者均为顺性别。研究结果表明,在二元环境中,性高潮始终与性和关系健康有关。性高潮频率及其主观体验与个体和伴侣的性满意度相关,并受性交流的影响。性高潮的重要性和对伴侣性高潮的(错误)认知也会影响关系的结果。值得注意的是,性别模式出现了,特别是在不同性别/性伴侣中,突出了女性性高潮在塑造双方幸福方面的中心地位。结论:未来的研究可能会把性高潮作为一种二元体验,包括不同性别认同和性取向的个体,并采用每日日记的设计来捕捉夫妻日常生活中独特的性高潮体验。
{"title":"Couple's orgasm as a dyadic experience: a scoping review of dyadic data.","authors":"Catarina A Nóbrega, Inês Tavares, Ana Luísa Quinta-Gomes","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf062","DOIUrl":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf062","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Orgasm experience is associated with greater sexual and relational well-being within couples' relationships. In the context of a partnered sexual relationship, this dimension of the sexual response has been mainly studied from an individualistic perspective, with few studies adopting a dyadic approach.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This scoping review aims to review and synthesize the literature that has examined orgasm as a predictor of sexual and relational well-being in dyadic contexts.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Following the Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-Scoping Review guidelines, a database search was conducted on EBSCOhost, Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and SciELO databases using key terms related to \"orgasm\" and \"dyadic.\"</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 280 articles were identified, and 9 fulfilled eligibility criteria and were included in this review. All studies sampled couples using a dyadic design. All studies employed cross-sectional designs and predominantly reflected different-gender/sex heterosexual couples, and all participants were cisgender. Findings showed that orgasm is consistently linked to both sexual and relational well-being in dyadic contexts. Orgasm frequency and its subjective experiences were associated with individual and partner sexual satisfaction, with some effects mediated by sexual communication. Relational outcomes were also shaped by the importance attributed to orgasm and by the (mis)perception of the partner's orgasm. Notably, gendered patterns emerged, particularly within different-gender/sex couples, highlighting the centrality of women's orgasm in shaping both partners' wellbeing.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Future research might focus on orgasm as a dyadic experience, include individuals with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations, and adopt daily-diary designs to capture the unique orgasm experiences as they unfold in couples' daily lives.</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145439328","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Eric Chung, Matt Ziegelmann, Hao Cheng Lin, Lawrence Jenkins, Gregory Broderick, Du Geon Moon, Raouf Seyam, Serkan Deveci, Allen Morey, Laurence Levine
Introduction: There is no ideal treatment for Peyronie's Disease (PD) since every patient has different needs with varying perceived risks versus benefits of individual treatment options, coupled with the degree of impact relating to PD on sexual function and beyond.
Objectives: The 5th International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) guideline on PD provides an update to the previous ICSM with an aim to provide a clinical framework and best-evidenced consensus recommendations to assist clinicians in managing PD.
Methodology: Available literature was reviewed, and a modified Delphi consensus was undertaken by leading sexual medicine experts to achieve a set of Quality of Evidence and strength of recommendations. This guideline was developed as an authoritative best-evidenced consensus incorporating state-of-the-art knowledge and contemporary literature.
Results: A total of thirty-one recommendations were made on PD guidelines. New updates to the 4th ICSM on PD have been made in definition, pathophysiology, and treatment strategies. The presence of penile pain with erection could occur in the chronic phase due to torque or stretch on the penile scar and surrounding tissue. Oral therapy works best during the acute phase and should be provided concurrently with other treatment modalities. Penile traction therapy can reduce penile deformity as monotherapy or may be offered as part of a multimodal therapy approach. There is no convincing evidence supporting cellular-based therapy. The type of plication procedure used depends on the surgeon and patient preference, although excision of the tunica followed by plication may have a higher complication rate. There is currently no ideal graft, and graft contracture can occur postoperatively. Adjunctive procedures such as penile modeling, tunical plication, plaque incision/excision and grafting can be performed when penile deformity and/or penile curvature persist following penile prosthesis implantation.
Conclusions: The management of PD should be individualized based on the patient's needs and preferences while balancing the benefits and risks of each treatment option.
{"title":"Management of Peyronie's disease: recommendations from the Fifth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM 2024).","authors":"Eric Chung, Matt Ziegelmann, Hao Cheng Lin, Lawrence Jenkins, Gregory Broderick, Du Geon Moon, Raouf Seyam, Serkan Deveci, Allen Morey, Laurence Levine","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf068","DOIUrl":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf068","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>There is no ideal treatment for Peyronie's Disease (PD) since every patient has different needs with varying perceived risks versus benefits of individual treatment options, coupled with the degree of impact relating to PD on sexual function and beyond.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>The 5th International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) guideline on PD provides an update to the previous ICSM with an aim to provide a clinical framework and best-evidenced consensus recommendations to assist clinicians in managing PD.</p><p><strong>Methodology: </strong>Available literature was reviewed, and a modified Delphi consensus was undertaken by leading sexual medicine experts to achieve a set of Quality of Evidence and strength of recommendations. This guideline was developed as an authoritative best-evidenced consensus incorporating state-of-the-art knowledge and contemporary literature.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of thirty-one recommendations were made on PD guidelines. New updates to the 4th ICSM on PD have been made in definition, pathophysiology, and treatment strategies. The presence of penile pain with erection could occur in the chronic phase due to torque or stretch on the penile scar and surrounding tissue. Oral therapy works best during the acute phase and should be provided concurrently with other treatment modalities. Penile traction therapy can reduce penile deformity as monotherapy or may be offered as part of a multimodal therapy approach. There is no convincing evidence supporting cellular-based therapy. The type of plication procedure used depends on the surgeon and patient preference, although excision of the tunica followed by plication may have a higher complication rate. There is currently no ideal graft, and graft contracture can occur postoperatively. Adjunctive procedures such as penile modeling, tunical plication, plaque incision/excision and grafting can be performed when penile deformity and/or penile curvature persist following penile prosthesis implantation.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The management of PD should be individualized based on the patient's needs and preferences while balancing the benefits and risks of each treatment option.</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145709165","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Introduction: The cavernous nerves are constitutive elements of the intrapelvic autonomic neuroregulatory input to the penis and pelvic floor, serving principally to mediate penile erection and likely urinary continence to some extent. Diffuse and variable in their topography surrounding the prostate, these neural structures are challenging for surgeons to discern and avoid injuring during radical prostatectomy, despite the use of modern surgical maneuvers for cavernous nerve preservation. Accordingly, objectives of patient retention of erectile function after surgery are insufficiently met.
Objectives: This narrative review aims to present the evolutionary understanding of the detailed complex anatomy of the cavernous nerves and to appraise innovative methodologies that have been proposed for mapping cavernous nerves and monitoring their functional integrity intraoperatively during radical prostatectomy.
Methods: A non-systematic literature search was conducted to identify published literature pertaining to cavernous nerve anatomy and physiology with relevance to pelvic surgery, with particular focus on literature describing techniques and technologies for preserving cavernous nerves during radical prostatectomy.
Results: The cavernous nerves represent a complex distribution of nerve fibers extending from the network of nerves surrounding the prostate that course to the proximal corpora cavernosa as well as to adjacent structures in the region of the pelvic floor. Their topography is diffuse and individually distinct across patients, with a precise portion that is active in producing penile erection. Cavernous nerve localization methods are being developed for real-time visualization of functionally active periprostatic erectogenic nerves during radical prostatectomy. Neurophysiological monitoring methods are also in development that guide the surgeon to avoid cavernous nerve injury when executing radical prostatectomy.
Conclusions: Improved functional recovery outcomes after radical prostatectomy can be expected with the advancement of intraoperative cavernous nerve mapping and real-time functional monitoring methodologies.
{"title":"Real-time intraoperative cavernous nerve mapping and neurophysiological monitoring during radical prostatectomy: the next chapter.","authors":"Arthur L Burnett, Biljana Musicki","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf063","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf063","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>The cavernous nerves are constitutive elements of the intrapelvic autonomic neuroregulatory input to the penis and pelvic floor, serving principally to mediate penile erection and likely urinary continence to some extent. Diffuse and variable in their topography surrounding the prostate, these neural structures are challenging for surgeons to discern and avoid injuring during radical prostatectomy, despite the use of modern surgical maneuvers for cavernous nerve preservation. Accordingly, objectives of patient retention of erectile function after surgery are insufficiently met.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This narrative review aims to present the evolutionary understanding of the detailed complex anatomy of the cavernous nerves and to appraise innovative methodologies that have been proposed for mapping cavernous nerves and monitoring their functional integrity intraoperatively during radical prostatectomy.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A non-systematic literature search was conducted to identify published literature pertaining to cavernous nerve anatomy and physiology with relevance to pelvic surgery, with particular focus on literature describing techniques and technologies for preserving cavernous nerves during radical prostatectomy.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The cavernous nerves represent a complex distribution of nerve fibers extending from the network of nerves surrounding the prostate that course to the proximal corpora cavernosa as well as to adjacent structures in the region of the pelvic floor. Their topography is diffuse and individually distinct across patients, with a precise portion that is active in producing penile erection. Cavernous nerve localization methods are being developed for real-time visualization of functionally active periprostatic erectogenic nerves during radical prostatectomy. Neurophysiological monitoring methods are also in development that guide the surgeon to avoid cavernous nerve injury when executing radical prostatectomy.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Improved functional recovery outcomes after radical prostatectomy can be expected with the advancement of intraoperative cavernous nerve mapping and real-time functional monitoring methodologies.</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145901061","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Mijal Luria, Kwangsung Park, Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan, Goran Arbanas, Christopher Chee Kong Ho, Carlos Da Ros, Vasan Satya Srini, Stephanie Faubion
Introduction: This is the first International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) position paper on sexual health in older adults. Physical, cognitive, and psychosocial factors create a unique set of challenges related to sexuality in older adults.
Objectives: This study explores the impact of the physiological aspects of aging, state of health, psychological, relationship-related, and sociocultural factors, on sexual health in older adults. The goal of this review is to provide recommendations for the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of this population.
Methods: A narrative review was conducted under the auspices of the ICSM, as part of its ongoing efforts to develop expert, evidence-based guidance in the field of sexual health. A multidisciplinary panel of international experts composed of specialists in urology, gynecology, psychiatry, sexual medicine, social work, and sex therapy was convened. A comprehensive literature review was conducted based on a search of psychological sources (PsycInfo), medical databases (PubMed, Medline), and Google Scholar. All retrieved articles were reviewed and critically assessed. Recommendations were then formulated using a modified Delphi method.
Results: Although there is extensive literature on the prevalence and risk of sexual challenges of adults over the age of 65, there is limited evidence regarding the quality of treatment modalities. In particular, there is scant data on women in this age group. This population faces specific and multifactorial challenges, which point to the need for a comprehensive approach to their care.
Conclusion: Any approach to sexual health in older adults needs to take all the factors that affect sexual health into account, while endorsing the full spectrum of sexual expression in a non-judgmental way. Individuals in a relationship should be offered a couple-centered approach. Special attention is needed for individuals in cognitive decline. Healthcare providers must be aware of ageist biases, which may prevent them from providing appropriate care.
{"title":"Sexuality and sexual health in older adults-recommendations from the Fifth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM 2024).","authors":"Mijal Luria, Kwangsung Park, Ateret Gewirtz-Meydan, Goran Arbanas, Christopher Chee Kong Ho, Carlos Da Ros, Vasan Satya Srini, Stephanie Faubion","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf069","DOIUrl":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf069","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>This is the first International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM) position paper on sexual health in older adults. Physical, cognitive, and psychosocial factors create a unique set of challenges related to sexuality in older adults.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This study explores the impact of the physiological aspects of aging, state of health, psychological, relationship-related, and sociocultural factors, on sexual health in older adults. The goal of this review is to provide recommendations for the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of this population.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A narrative review was conducted under the auspices of the ICSM, as part of its ongoing efforts to develop expert, evidence-based guidance in the field of sexual health. A multidisciplinary panel of international experts composed of specialists in urology, gynecology, psychiatry, sexual medicine, social work, and sex therapy was convened. A comprehensive literature review was conducted based on a search of psychological sources (PsycInfo), medical databases (PubMed, Medline), and Google Scholar. All retrieved articles were reviewed and critically assessed. Recommendations were then formulated using a modified Delphi method.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Although there is extensive literature on the prevalence and risk of sexual challenges of adults over the age of 65, there is limited evidence regarding the quality of treatment modalities. In particular, there is scant data on women in this age group. This population faces specific and multifactorial challenges, which point to the need for a comprehensive approach to their care.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Any approach to sexual health in older adults needs to take all the factors that affect sexual health into account, while endorsing the full spectrum of sexual expression in a non-judgmental way. Individuals in a relationship should be offered a couple-centered approach. Special attention is needed for individuals in cognitive decline. Healthcare providers must be aware of ageist biases, which may prevent them from providing appropriate care.</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145725896","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lorena Oliveira de Paula Dos Santos, Paula Rafaela Queiroz da Silva, Gabriel Magalhães Oliveira Rigo, Cristiana Livramento Oliveira Pinto, Hugo Felix Perini, Gláucia Eloisa Munhoz de Lion Siervo
Introduction: Infertility is a significant global health concern, particularly among individuals of reproductive age. At the same time, psychiatric disorders-especially depression and anxiety-are increasingly prevalent, leading to a growing global demand for antidepressants.
Objectives: The present review aimed to compile and analyze preclinical studies evaluating the effects of antidepressant exposure on sperm parameters and fertility outcomes in animal models.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted in April 2023 using the PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The search strategy combined terms such as "fertility," "sperm," and "semen" with keywords related to various classes of antidepressants and their specific compounds. Eligible studies included experimental research assessing sperm and/or fertility parameters following antidepressant administration in male animals. Data extracted from the selected studies included drug class, specific compound, dosage, treatment duration, animal species, subject age, and reproductive outcomes.
Results: A total of 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. Among the antidepressants investigated, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were the most frequently studied, with venlafaxine, fluoxetine, and paroxetine being the most commonly evaluated compounds. Most studies reported adverse effects on sperm parameters, such as concentration, motility, and morphology. However, evidence regarding fertility outcomes remains inconclusive due to the limited number of studies and considerable heterogeneity in experimental designs and treatment protocols.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that several antidepressants may impair sperm quality in animal models, with possible implications for male fertility. Nonetheless, further research is warranted to clarify these effects, particularly for less-studied antidepressant classes.
导言:不孕症是一个重大的全球健康问题,特别是育龄个体。与此同时,精神疾病——尤其是抑郁症和焦虑症——越来越普遍,导致全球对抗抑郁药的需求不断增长。目的:本综述旨在汇编和分析临床前研究,评估抗抑郁药暴露对动物模型精子参数和生育结果的影响。方法:于2023年4月使用PubMed/Medline、Web of Science和Scopus数据库进行综合文献检索。该搜索策略将“生育能力”、“精子”和“精液”等关键词与各种抗抑郁药及其特定化合物相关的关键词结合起来。符合条件的研究包括评估雄性动物服用抗抑郁药后精子和/或生育参数的实验研究。从选定的研究中提取的数据包括药物类别、特定化合物、剂量、治疗时间、动物种类、受试者年龄和生殖结果。结果:共有32项研究符合纳入标准。在研究的抗抑郁药中,选择性血清素再摄取抑制剂是最常被研究的,文拉法辛、氟西汀和帕罗西汀是最常被评估的化合物。大多数研究报告了对精子参数的不良影响,如浓度、活力和形态。然而,由于研究数量有限以及实验设计和治疗方案的相当大的异质性,关于生育结果的证据仍然不确定。结论:这些发现表明,在动物模型中,几种抗抑郁药可能会损害精子质量,并可能影响男性生育能力。尽管如此,需要进一步的研究来澄清这些影响,特别是对研究较少的抗抑郁药。
{"title":"Can antidepressants compromise sperm quality? A comprehensive review of preclinical evidence.","authors":"Lorena Oliveira de Paula Dos Santos, Paula Rafaela Queiroz da Silva, Gabriel Magalhães Oliveira Rigo, Cristiana Livramento Oliveira Pinto, Hugo Felix Perini, Gláucia Eloisa Munhoz de Lion Siervo","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf056","DOIUrl":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf056","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Infertility is a significant global health concern, particularly among individuals of reproductive age. At the same time, psychiatric disorders-especially depression and anxiety-are increasingly prevalent, leading to a growing global demand for antidepressants.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>The present review aimed to compile and analyze preclinical studies evaluating the effects of antidepressant exposure on sperm parameters and fertility outcomes in animal models.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A comprehensive literature search was conducted in April 2023 using the PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The search strategy combined terms such as \"fertility,\" \"sperm,\" and \"semen\" with keywords related to various classes of antidepressants and their specific compounds. Eligible studies included experimental research assessing sperm and/or fertility parameters following antidepressant administration in male animals. Data extracted from the selected studies included drug class, specific compound, dosage, treatment duration, animal species, subject age, and reproductive outcomes.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>A total of 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. Among the antidepressants investigated, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were the most frequently studied, with venlafaxine, fluoxetine, and paroxetine being the most commonly evaluated compounds. Most studies reported adverse effects on sperm parameters, such as concentration, motility, and morphology. However, evidence regarding fertility outcomes remains inconclusive due to the limited number of studies and considerable heterogeneity in experimental designs and treatment protocols.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>These findings suggest that several antidepressants may impair sperm quality in animal models, with possible implications for male fertility. Nonetheless, further research is warranted to clarify these effects, particularly for less-studied antidepressant classes.</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145275836","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Marco Tozzi, Andrea Gobbo, Giuseppe Fallara, Massimiliano Depalma, Alberto Quistini, Francesco Chierigo, Letizia Maria Ippolita Jannello, Wai Gin Lee, Omid Sedigh, Karl H Pang, Fabio Castiglione, Onur Omer Cakir, Stefano Luzzago, Francesco Alessandro Mistretta, Roberto Bianchi, Martina Maggi, Nicolo' Maria Buffi, Rocco Damiano, Gennaro Musi, Matteo Ferro, Carlo Bettocchi, Andrea Salonia, David Ralph
Introduction: Peyronie's disease causes penile curvature and painful erections, potentially impairing quality of life; surgical grafts are employed to correct curvature and restore penetrative sexual function.
Objectives: This study aimed to summarize the evidence on perioperative and functional outcomes of surgical grafting procedures for Peyronie's disease.
Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were searched up to April 1, 2023. Eligible studies included retrospective or prospective reports on patients aged 18 years or older treated with various graft materials, including vein, dermal, buccal mucosa, small intestinal submucosa, human cadaveric, and bovine pericardium. Quality was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist. Due to data heterogeneity and a lack of comparative studies, no quantitative synthesis was performed. The systematic review was registered on PROSPERO-CRD42024508997. The review focused on perioperative outcomes, erectile function changes, and complication rates associated with different graft materials.
Results: Out of 521 articles identified from 1933 to 2023, 71 studies involving 2692 patients met the inclusion criteria. Six studies were prospective, and the remainder were retrospective. Quality assessment revealed a high or severely high risk of bias across all included studies. Erectile function worsened in 0%-70% of patients, with complication rates ranging from 0% to 50%. No comparative studies among graft types were identified.
Conclusion: Various graft materials offer reliable perioperative and functional outcomes for Peyronie's disease; however, further comparative studies are essential.
{"title":"Erectile dysfunction in patients with Peyronie's disease treated with different grafts: a systematic review.","authors":"Marco Tozzi, Andrea Gobbo, Giuseppe Fallara, Massimiliano Depalma, Alberto Quistini, Francesco Chierigo, Letizia Maria Ippolita Jannello, Wai Gin Lee, Omid Sedigh, Karl H Pang, Fabio Castiglione, Onur Omer Cakir, Stefano Luzzago, Francesco Alessandro Mistretta, Roberto Bianchi, Martina Maggi, Nicolo' Maria Buffi, Rocco Damiano, Gennaro Musi, Matteo Ferro, Carlo Bettocchi, Andrea Salonia, David Ralph","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf053","DOIUrl":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf053","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Peyronie's disease causes penile curvature and painful erections, potentially impairing quality of life; surgical grafts are employed to correct curvature and restore penetrative sexual function.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This study aimed to summarize the evidence on perioperative and functional outcomes of surgical grafting procedures for Peyronie's disease.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were searched up to April 1, 2023. Eligible studies included retrospective or prospective reports on patients aged 18 years or older treated with various graft materials, including vein, dermal, buccal mucosa, small intestinal submucosa, human cadaveric, and bovine pericardium. Quality was assessed using the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist. Due to data heterogeneity and a lack of comparative studies, no quantitative synthesis was performed. The systematic review was registered on PROSPERO-CRD42024508997. The review focused on perioperative outcomes, erectile function changes, and complication rates associated with different graft materials.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Out of 521 articles identified from 1933 to 2023, 71 studies involving 2692 patients met the inclusion criteria. Six studies were prospective, and the remainder were retrospective. Quality assessment revealed a high or severely high risk of bias across all included studies. Erectile function worsened in 0%-70% of patients, with complication rates ranging from 0% to 50%. No comparative studies among graft types were identified.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Various graft materials offer reliable perioperative and functional outcomes for Peyronie's disease; however, further comparative studies are essential.</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145087310","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Cultural determinants of sexual health: implications for clinical practice.","authors":"Mohamed Arafa","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf070","DOIUrl":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeaf070","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145763733","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Kevan Richard Wylie, Michael G Kirby, Filippo Maria Nimbi, Michael Krychman, Jennifer Barsky Reese, Deborah C Marshall
Introduction: Disorders of chronic illness and certain cancers are common and can pose a substantial burden to the individual and their sexual partners.
Objectives: This manuscript reviews the substantial impact of chronic illness and cancer on sexual function from the perspectives of patients, partners, and healthcare providers. Convened by the Fifth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine, a multidisciplinary panel conducted a narrative review of current literature and expert consensus. The findings highlight both the direct and indirect effects of chronic diseases, breast and gynecological cancers, and oncological treatments on sexual health and relationships, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing these issues to optimize care for individuals and their partners.
Methods: Narrative review of the existing literature and consensus recommendations from the expert panel.
Results: The direct and indirect impact of chronic disease and cancers and the impact of associated treatment interventions on sexual function and relationships is considerable.
Conclusions: An understanding of the impact of chronic illness and cancers, and the related treatment of such can aid clinicians and researchers in providing optimal care to the individual and their partner(s).
{"title":"Sexual function in chronic illness and cancer perspectives of the patient, partner, and healthcare provider; innovations; and updates: recommendations from the Fifth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine (ICSM 2024).","authors":"Kevan Richard Wylie, Michael G Kirby, Filippo Maria Nimbi, Michael Krychman, Jennifer Barsky Reese, Deborah C Marshall","doi":"10.1093/sxmrev/qeag002","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/sxmrev/qeag002","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Disorders of chronic illness and certain cancers are common and can pose a substantial burden to the individual and their sexual partners.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This manuscript reviews the substantial impact of chronic illness and cancer on sexual function from the perspectives of patients, partners, and healthcare providers. Convened by the Fifth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine, a multidisciplinary panel conducted a narrative review of current literature and expert consensus. The findings highlight both the direct and indirect effects of chronic diseases, breast and gynecological cancers, and oncological treatments on sexual health and relationships, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing these issues to optimize care for individuals and their partners.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Narrative review of the existing literature and consensus recommendations from the expert panel.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The direct and indirect impact of chronic disease and cancers and the impact of associated treatment interventions on sexual function and relationships is considerable.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>An understanding of the impact of chronic illness and cancers, and the related treatment of such can aid clinicians and researchers in providing optimal care to the individual and their partner(s).</p>","PeriodicalId":21813,"journal":{"name":"Sexual medicine reviews","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":3.4,"publicationDate":"2026-01-02","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147277237","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}