Pentosan Polysulfate Sodium Treatment Effects on Sexual Function in Women with Interstitial Cystitis: A Prospective Study

Abstract This prospective cohort study evaluated pentosan polysulfate sodium treatment effects on sexual function in 42 women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. Participants received 300 mg daily for three months, with assessments using the Female Sexual Function Index, Interstitial Cystitis Symptom and Problem Indices, Beck Depression Inventory, and World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale. Thirty-nine patients completed the protocol. Mean Female Sexual Function Index score increased significantly from 16.5 ± 4.2 to 22.5 ± 5.1 (p = 0.001). Sexual dysfunction prevalence decreased from 89.7% to 56.4%, with 37.1% achieving normal function. The pain/discomfort domain showed the largest improvement (Cohen's d = 0.82). Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index and Problem Index scores decreased significantly (both p < 0.001). Beck Depression Inventory scores decreased from 18.4 ± 7.2 to 13.7 ± 6.8 (p = 0.006). Quality of life improved significantly in physical health (p = 0.004) and psychological health (p = 0.015) domains. Strong negative correlations existed between sexual function and bladder symptoms (r=-0.42, p = 0.007) and depression (r=-0.51, p = 0.001). Only 2.6% discontinued due to adverse effects. Three-month pentosan polysulfate sodium treatment significantly improves sexual function, bladder symptoms, depression, and quality of life in women with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome.