The Effect of Radiofrequency Therapy on Sexual Function in Female Cancer Survivors (Gynecologic and Breast) and Non-cancer Menopausal Women: A Single-Arm Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Up to 90% of postmenopausal women and female cancer survivors may be affected by the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), with a negative impact on sexual function and quality of life. A novel energy-based device among the treatment options for GSM is radiofrequency therapy (RFT). RFT is a treatment option that uses energy from radio waves to heat the tissue. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of RFT on sexual function in female cancer survivors (gynecologic and breast) and non-cancer menopausal women. Methods: In a single-arm prospective trial, the efficacy of RFT in both female cancer survivors (gynecologic and breast) and non-cancer menopausal women with sexual dysfunction at a tertiary and referral center (Imam Hossein Medical Center, Tehran, Iran) was evaluated between April 2022 and December 2022. The study protocol consisted of 3 monthly RFT sessions. Examination was performed at baseline (T0) and 3 months after the last RFT session (T1). The primary outcome was sexual function, which was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). In addition, adverse events were evaluated during treatment and at T1. Results: A total of 37 female cancer survivors (mean [SD] age: 49.4 [8.9] years) and 37 non-cancer menopausal women (mean [SD] age: 53.8 [5.5] years) were enrolled. Patients exposed to RFT showed a significant improvement in FSFI scores when compared to baseline scores for both female cancer survivors (13.07, 95% CI: 12.27 - 13.86) and non-cancer menopausal women (13.18, 95% CI: 12.34 - 14.03). There was no difference in FSFI total score improvement between the two groups (t(72)=0.06, P=0.951). There were no serious adverse events associated with RFT. Conclusion: The efficacy of RFT as a treatment for sexual dysfunction has been demonstrated in both non-cancer menopausal women and female cancer survivors. In both groups, a significant improvement was confirmed.