Effects of Functional Magnetic Stimulation Therapy on Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms and Sexual Function in Female Patients with Stress Urinary Incontinence

Chung, Seok Young; Jung, Hee Chang

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of functional magnetic stimulation (FMS) therapy on the lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTSs) and sexual function in female patients with stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
MATERIALS AND METHODS
39 sexually active women, with SUI treated by FMS therapy, were studied. Before treatment, female bladder questionnaires and a visual analog scale test (VAT) were used to acquire information relating to LUTS. Questions were asked about sexual function using the female sexual function index (FSFI). Treatments were performed for 20 minutes, twice a week, for 6 weeks. After treatment, the same questionnaires were repeated at 3, 6 and 12 months. The patients were divided into two groups: those with cured or improved SUI symptoms were defined as the success group, with the remainder defined as the failure group. The VAT scores of LUTSs, the domain scores and full scale scores of FSFI were analyzed.
RESULTS
The success and failure groups comprised of 25 (64%) and 14 (36%) patients, respectively. In both groups, the frequency, urge incontinence and dysuria were improved. The VAT score for the overall satisfaction was significantly decreased in the success group only (p<0.05). In the success group, the domain score for 'satisfaction' in the FSFI was significantly increased (p<0.05). The full scale scores of the FSFI were significantly increased in the success group only (p<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
These results show that FMS therapy improves some LUTSs and sexual functions, with the correction of SUI symptom. Therefore, FMS therapy could be considered as a primary therapy in SUI women with LUTSs and sexual impairment.