The effect of perineal extracorporeal shock wave therapy applied to chronic prostatitis patients on sexual functions and prostatitis symptoms

Abstract

It was aimed to investigate the effect of perineal extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) applied to chronic prostatitis (CP) patients on prostatitis symptoms and sexual functions, based on age and body mass index (BMI) parameters. Forty male patients aged 18 and over who underwent ESWT for CP were included in the study. The age and BMI of the patients were recorded. Patients were evaluated with the International Erectile Function Form and the International Health Institute – Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index before and 3 months after ESWT. Prostatitis symptoms and sexual function values of the patients were analyzed, as well as age and BMI parameters. The average age of the patients was 31 (±7.88) years and the average BMI was 25.27 (±4.89) kg/m2. When all patients were evaluated, ESWT; it created a statistically significant positive difference in pain and quality of life scores on the CP side. ESWT; created a statistically significant positive difference in erectile function and sexual and general satisfaction scores. When looking at ESWT effectiveness according to BMI values; erectile function, orgasmic function, and sexual and general satisfaction scores increased more in normal-weight patients than in obese patients. In addition, a greater decrease in prostatitis pain score was observed after treatment in normal-weight patients compared to obese patients. ESWT treatment is an effective method for CP patients, especially in relieving pain. The erectile function also increases sexual and general satisfaction. In obese people, its contribution to both pain palliation and erectile function is limited. Prospective, randomized, multicenter, and high-participation studies are needed.