Zieren J et al. (2005) Sexual function before and after mesh repair of inguinal hernia. Int J Urol 12: 35–38

Inguinal hernia repair is a common surgical procedure but little is known about its effects on sexual function, despite the proximity of the inguinal region to the sexual organs and the high frequency of hernia-related sexual dysfunction. Zieren and colleagues have carried out a prospective study, to compare preoperative and postoperative sexual function in men and women undergoing mesh repair of inguinal hernia at a surgical center in Berlin.

The study included 210 men and 14 women of a mean age of 53 ± 17 years. Using an anonymous questionnaire, all patients provided details of their sexual function before undergoing a standardized plug-and-patch technique for hernia repair. Postoperative questionnaires were completed 3 months after surgery and then every 6 months during follow-up.

Fifty-two patients (23.2%) reported problems with potency, erection or orgasm before surgery; they attributed these difficulties to groin pain or feelings of pressure or tension caused by their hernia. Most of these preoperative complaints were reduced postoperatively; 36 (16%) patients reported postoperative potency or orgasm disorders, but these appeared to resolve within a few months of surgery. None of the male patients reported problems with erection or ejaculation as a result of the surgery.

Zieren et al. conclude that hernia repair can bring about the recovery of sexual function in patients with hernia-related sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, the technique employed did not appear to disrupt sexual function in those with no such problems.