Studies how perianal disease affects sex life and body image
Studies how chronic perianal conditions affect sexual health and self-esteem in adults.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: The Impact of Perianal Disease on Patient's Sex Life
Key facts
- Where
- Thessaloniki, GreeceSee the site
Where in Greece
- AHEPA University General HospitalThessaloniki, GreeceTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- AHEPA University Hospital
- Trial code
- NCT07519850
- Record updated
- 9 April 2026
- Original description
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.Read full original descriptionShow less
The "Hidden Morbidity" of Perianal Disease: A Prospective Evaluation of Psychosexual Health and Body Image.
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.
Inclusion: Diagnosis of chronic perianal disease (fistula-in-ano, pCD, pilonidal); Age >18 years; Ability to understand and complete the Greek versions of the IIEF-5/FSFI-6 and the study PROM; Signed informed consent.
Exclusion: Active malignancy (colorectal or anal cancer); Major pelvic surgery in the last 3 months (unrelated to perianal disease); Cognitive impairment preventing survey completion.