The Impact of Perianal Disease on Patient's Sex Life

Perianal diseases, such as perianal abcesses, anal fistulae and perianal Crohn's disease, are often associated with significant physical symptoms, including pain and chronic drainage. However, the impact of these conditions on a patient's personal life, intimacy, and body image-often referred to as "hidden morbidity"-is frequently overlooked in clinical practice. The purpose of this prospective observational study is to evaluate the psychosexual burden in patients suffering from chronic perianal disease. Using validated tools (IIEF-5 for men, FSFI-6 for women) and a specialized Supplemental Patient-Reported Outcome Measure (PROM), researchers will investigate how the presence of surgical devices (such as setons), disease etiology, and clinical symptoms affect sexual function and self-esteem. The study also aims to identify gaps in physician-patient communication regarding sexual health. By quantifying these impacts, the study seeks to promote a more holistic, patient-centered approach to the surgical management of perianal conditions.

NCT Number	NCT07519850
Lead Sponsor	AHEPA University Hospital Collaborators: Aristotle University Of Thessaloniki
Conditions	Perianal Crohn Disease, Perianal Fistula, Fistula in Ano, Perianal Abscess, Pilonidal Cyst/Fistula, Anal Fissure and Fistula
Enrollment	60 participants
Start Date	2026-03-31
Primary Completion	2026-05-15 (estimated)
Study Completion	2026-06-20 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-04-09