Physiotherapeutic intervention in the rehabilitation post sex reassignment surgery male to female: a case report

Abstract

CASE REPORT: This case report of a transsexual woman, 48 years old, with 15 years after sex reassignment surgery (SRS) without complaints. During the initial assessment, socio-demographic data, pain assessment using the visual analog visual scale (VAS), quality of life by SF-36, sexual function by QS-F were collected. The pelvic floor (PF) assessment was performed for inspection, palpation and strength following the PERFECT scheme. After the evaluation, vaginal stenosis, lack of perineal awareness, weakness of the pelvic floor muscles were identified and pain was reported during intercourse. INTERVENTION: An exercise program through vaginal dilators, behavioral therapy, and PF muscle training was suggested. The program aimed at 10 sessions of 40 minutes each, twice a week. At the end of the program, VAS, SF-36 and PF evaluation were collected following the PERFECT scheme. However, the QS-F was not applied at the end of the proposed program due to the patient's sexual inactivity for 3 months, including during the program period. RESULTS: After the final evaluation, the patient showed improvement in perineal awareness, vaginal penetration without discomfort, however, there was no improvement in the strength of the AP muscles. FINAL REMARKS: The SRS promotes anatomical alteration, which can cause urogenital and / or sexual dysfunctions. In this study, physiotherapy promoted improvement in perineal awareness and vaginal stenosis. However, more studies on physiotherapy are needed in this population, ensuring assistance and adequate follow-up during this process, reducing possible late complications.