The sex life of male patients with cirrhosis and its organic factors: What we have got so far?

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the sex lives of male cirrhotic patients organic factors affect them.

Method: We did an observational study of 220 cirrhotic men's satisfaction with their sexual lives. Assessment of sex satisfaction was carried out using the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale. The frequency of intercourse and masturbation was estimated. Then, the levels of albumin, total bilirubin, vitamin D, and sex steroids were examined. Ascites and sarcopenia subgroups of our patients were stratified.

Results: Along with sex steroids, albumin, total bilirubin, and vitamin D all had an impact on how satisfying sex was (r = 0.22), (r = 0.24), and (r = -0.17) affected sex satisfaction. There were strong positive correlations between vitamin D (r = 0.33), albumin (r = 0.59), and free testosterone, along with a negative correlation between total bilirubin (r = -0.63) and free testosterone. An imbalance in sex steroid levels was observed, leading to decreased frequency of intercourse(p < 0.0001), weakened erections(p < 0.0001), and reduced quality of orgasm (p < 0.0001). Significant new sex behavior changes were found, such as an increase in masturbation. Physical limitations such as ascites and sarcopenia also impacted the decreasing sex life.

Conclusion: The sex life of cirrhotic men is affected. The decrease in the frequency of intercourse and sexual satisfaction is noticeable in male patients and leads to increased masturbation. Free Testosterone, vitamin D, albumin, and bilirubin play role in their sex life. In addition, ascites and sarcopenia not only affect their sex life but also hamper the quality of their well-being.