Sexual stimulation for distal ureteral stones: a meta-analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background This article aimed to investigate the clinical efficiency of sexual stimulation in the treatment of distal ureteral stones. Methods We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and Google Scholar from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2022 for studies comparing sexual stimulus to placebo for the treatment of distal ureteral stones. RevMan 5.3 software was used to pool the data. Results A total of 6 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comprising 535 cases of distal ureteral stones were included. 273 cases were associated with sexual intercourse or masturbation 3–4 times a week, and 262 cases received only conventional medical treatment. The pooled results showed that the 2-week [risk ratios (RR) = 1.77, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.34, 2.33] and 4-week [RR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.29, 1.69] expulsion rates of the sexual stimulation group were significantly higher than in the placebo group (ps<0.01). Additionally, sexual stimulation was associated with a shorter expulsion time [weight mean differences (WMD) = -3.74, 95% CI: -6.27, -1.22, p < 0.01] and a decreased prevalence of renal colic attacks [WMD = -0.61, 95% CI: -1.01, -0.22, p < 0.01]. Conclusions Proper sexual stimulation can enhance the spontaneous expulsion of distal ureteral stones in patients presenting tolerable pain.