A systematic review evaluating the effects of vasectomy on male and female sexual function and satisfaction.

Background: Vasectomy is currently the most effective option for male contraception. Although it is considered a relatively low-risk procedure, many questions arise amongst patients and their partners regarding potential sexual side effects. There is currently no cohesive piece of literature that addresses the effects of vasectomy on sexual function. This review summarizes the literature evaluating sexual function and satisfaction in males and females post-vasectomy. Methods: A systematic review was performed in January 2024 with the assistance of a reference librarian, utilizing keywords relevant to sexual function and satisfaction. This search yielded 556 records. Exclusions for relevance and publication date yielded twenty records. The results were utilized to determine sexual function and satisfaction post-vasectomy. Results: Five papers (n=553) utilized the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). The average IIEF scores pre- and post-vasectomy were 65.8 and 67.08, respectively. Male intercourse satisfaction was evaluated in 10 papers (n=1,805), with 3 reporting improvement, 6 reporting no change, and 1 reporting deterioration. Erectile function was evaluated in 9 papers (n=1,800), with 3 reporting improvement and 6 reporting no change. Male sexual desire was evaluated in 13 papers (n=2,611), with 3 reporting improvement and 10 reporting no change. Ejaculatory function was evaluated in 4 papers (n=1,306) with no change. Male orgasmic function was evaluated in 6 papers (n=1,140), with 3 reporting improvement and 3 reporting no change. Male sexual satisfaction was evaluated in 8 papers (n=2,315), with 3 reporting improvement and 5 reporting no change. Female intercourse satisfaction was evaluated in 4 papers (n=631), with 1 reporting improvement and 3 reporting no change. Female sexual desire was evaluated in 3 papers (n=491), with 1 reporting improvement, 1 reporting no change, and 1 reporting deterioration. Female sexual arousal was improved in 2 papers (n=150). Female lubrication and orgasm were evaluated in 2 papers (n=150), with 1 reporting improvement and 1 reporting no change. Conclusions: This review illustrates that most domains of male and female sexual function are objectively unaffected or improved after vasectomy.