Assessment of the impact of pulmonary rehabilitation on sexual activity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVEChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects life quality, and also sexual activity. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a helpful treatment in COPD patients. The aim of this study is to assess sexual activity on COPD patients, and the effect of PR over it. PATIENTS AND METHODSSingle cohort prospective study over male COPD candidates to PR. Clinical, respiratory and biochemical assessment (FSH, LH, T, and progesterone) was performed. Patients were asked to fill baseline International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire, and 6 months after PR. A descriptive initial analysis compared respiratory values between patients with and without sexual activity. Changes in IIEF results were assessed after PR, and satisfaction with treatment using Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS). RESULTSBetween 2014 and 2016, 62 male COPD patients enlisted. Mean age: 66.5 years (SD 7.2). 52 Ex-smokers. 10 declared being sexually active (16.1%). No hormonal levels alterations. No significant differences on respiratory parameters between sexually active and non-active patients (FEV1, 6-minutes walking test, number of exacerbations, CAT score). Baseline mean IIEF values: Erectile function 8, orgasmic function 4, sexual desire 5.6, intercourse satisfaction 5.3, and overall satisfaction 4.5. After PR, significant increase in mean IIEF value: 6.1 (CI95% 1.9-10.3). Improvement was found in all domains, with statistical significance on intercourse satisfaction 0.9 (CI95% 0.2-1.6). Moderate satisfaction with treatment was achieved according to EDITS. CONCLUSIONSOnly a low percentage of COPD males included in PR is sexually active. No pulmonary differences were found between sexually active and non-active patients. PR improves sexual function, particularly intercourse satisfaction domain.