Every year, thousands of Americans struggling with obesity opt to have bariatric surgery. The procedure reduces stomach size, either through a gastric band or by removing a portion of the stomach.
Much of the research about bariatric surgery focuses on weight-associated conditions, such as diabetes, and hypertension. Little attention has been given to the sexual health effects.
Body image and sexual activity are closely linked. Obesity can induce negative body image, and physical limitations can make sex unpleasant, painful, or impossible. In one study, about half of men and women considering the weight-loss surgery reported dissatisfaction with their sexual life.
Researchers who have analyzed changes in sexual health after bariatric surgery found improvements in sexual function for both men and women. However, many of the studies had limited follow-up periods, meaning the potential for sustained improvement was unknown. A new study published in JAMA by Kristine Steffen and colleagues provides some long-term answers.
Much of the research about bariatric surgery focuses on weight-associated conditions, such as diabetes, and hypertension. Little attention has been given to the sexual health effects.
The researchers tracked the sexual function of 2,200 adults in the five years after their bariatric surgery. They asked about sexual desire, activity, and satisfaction. Participants answered questions about physical limitations, including fatigue and difficulty becoming aroused, and fear of hurting their partner or themselves. One year after the surgery, more than half of men and women who were previously unhappy with their sex lives reported meaningful improvements.
Steffen, Kristine J., et al. “Changes in Sexual Functioning in Women and Men in the 5 Years After Bariatric Surgery.” JAMA Surgery, vol. 154, no. 6, 2019, p. 487., doi:10.1001/jamasurg.2018.1162.
As seen on the graphs, participants cited fewer physical limitations to sex after the surgery. In particular, 66.7% of men reported experiencing no limitations five years after surgery, compared to 34%. Women saw similar improvements. More than half of both men and women reported overall satisfaction with their sexual life after five years.
While physicians often encourage their patients to undergo bariatric surgery for the traditional purpose of weight loss, this study indicates that improved sexual health could be an additional benefit.
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