| Description |
This study examined the process of sexual recovery after surgical treatment for prostate cancer in a sample of 527 men in relationships, both in the context of their broadly measured Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite (EPIC) sexual functioning summary scores (Aim 1) and in frequencies of sexual activity (Aim 2). Across a period of 5 years, men submitted data up to 10 times about a variety of factors related to sexual quality of life (e.g., levels of sexual desire). Hierarchical linear growth modeling was used to estimate individual growth trajectories for each outcome, allowing for simultaneous examination of intraindividual and interindividual variability. Although everyone experienced a decrement to both outcomes immediately after surgery, results suggested that younger age, higher pretreatment sexual functioning and frequencies of sexual activity, and receiving nerve-sparing procedures were associated with better sexual functioning and higher frequency of sexual activity several months after surgery. Most men's levels of sexual functioning improved over time, though those with higher pretreatment sexual functioning increased at a faster rate. Although on average there was a slight, steady improvement over time in frequencies of sexual activity, individual men also varied from month-to-month around their own average levels of sexual activity depending on changes in sexual desire, confidence in satisfying a partner, perceived erectile ability, perceived orgasm ability, and whether or not they used sexual aids that month. These findings are discussed in the context of methodological and clinical implications in order to guide future research targets and improve clinical interventions. |
