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Pilot Study to Assess the Feasibility of Using Sexual Function and Vaginal Changes Questionnaire in Gynaecological Cancer Survivors

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Abstract

Introduction

Sexual quality of life is an important aspect of quality of life (QOL) parameter for cancer survivors. Sexual and vaginal function assessment is a neglected aspect in EORTC questionnaire. Recently a questionnaire assessing this aspect has been developed. However, before widespread use of such a questionnaire a feasibility study is warranted.

Aims and objectives

The aim of the study was to see the feasibility of using sexual function and vaginal changes questionnaires (SVQ) in Indian gynaecological cancer survivors. The primary objective of study was to see the completion rates of SVQ. Secondary objective was to study the face value, feasibility and utility of SVQ and to suggest any modifications required for it to be used in Indian population.

Methodology

This was a pilot study which included fifteen gynaecological cancer survivors. The patients were self-administered SVQ for evaluating sexual and vaginal dysfunction. A separate questionnaire QQ10 was then administered for evaluation of the feasibility of using SVQ. Descriptive statistics was used to calculate the percentage completion rate for SVQ.

Results

There was a high completion rate (98.24%) of SVQ, and the QQ-10 tool showed that it was feasible to administer the test in Indian population.

Conclusion

The study suggests that vaginal and sexual dysfunctions can be successfully assessed by SVQ in Indian gynaecological cancer survivors. A large study is warranted to further evaluate the SVQ applicability in our country.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Girgoan, Mumbai, India

    Sampada Dessai

  2. Tata Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India

    Amita Maheshwari

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  1. Sampada Dessai
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  2. Amita Maheshwari
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Correspondence to Amita Maheshwari.

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Dessai, S., Maheshwari, A. Pilot Study to Assess the Feasibility of Using Sexual Function and Vaginal Changes Questionnaire in Gynaecological Cancer Survivors. Indian J Gynecol Oncolog 16, 72 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40944-018-0238-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40944-018-0238-1

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