# Perceptions and Practice of Urologists in Saudi Arabia Regarding Sexual Complications Related to LUTS/BPH Management

## TL;DR

This study examines how urologists in Saudi Arabia discuss sexual side effects with patients before treating BPH, finding inconsistent communication practices.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into urologists' communication patterns regarding sexual complications in BPH management in Saudi Arabia.

## Key findings

- Urologists most frequently discussed ED risks before 5-ARIs and combined therapies, and EjD risks before alpha-blockers and TURP.
- A significant proportion of urologists considered alternative treatments based on sexual dysfunction risks.
- Private hospital urologists showed a trend toward more open discussions, though not significant in multivariate analysis.

## Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate perceptions and practices of urologists in Saudi Arabia regarding discussions of erectile dysfunction (ED) and ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD) with patients before initiating BPH treatments. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed during the 36th Saudi Urological Annual Conference held in Riyadh in February 2025 among urologists in Saudi Arabia. A binary outcome variable, “frequent and open discussion,” was created based on a scoring system using the median score of these responses. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and univariate (p < 0.25) and multivariate (p < 0.05) logistic regression using SPSS version 27. Results: Discussions about ED risks were most frequent before prescribing 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (5-ARIs) (51.3%) and combined alpha-blockers and 5-ARIs therapy (50.0%), whereas EjD risks were more frequently addressed before alpha-blocker monotherapy (59.2%) and transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) (56.6%). A substantial proportion of urologists discussed alternative treatments based on sexual dysfunction risks, particularly before TURP (53.9%), alpha-blockers (47.4%), and 5-ARIs (43.4%). Univariate analysis revealed a trend towards more open discussions among non-Saudi urologists (OR 4.58, 95% CI 0.88–23.74, p = 0.06) and a significant association with working in private hospitals (OR 3.68, 95% CI 0.39–35.14, p = 0.03). However, these associations did not hold in multivariate analysis. Conclusions: Urologists in Saudi Arabia demonstrate variability in discussing sexual complications with patients before BPH treatments. Consistent and comprehensive discussions about ED and EjD risks are crucial for informed patient decision-making. Standardized guidelines and educational programs are needed to enhance urologists’ communication skills and ensure consistent patient counseling.