Pregnancy, Sexuality, and Total Hip Arthroplasty: Experiences of Women Younger than 45 Years.

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy and sexuality are important considerations for young women undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), yet data on experiences and outcomes in this population remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate outcomes of pregnancy, delivery, and sexual activity after THA.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective single-center study of women aged 14 to 44 years who underwent a THA. All participants completed a questionnaire addressing pregnancy, childbirth, and sexual activity. A total of 132 women responded to the questionnaire (42%), representing 168 THAs and 188 pregnancies. The mean age at the time of the THA procedure was 29 years (range, 14 to 44).

RESULTS: There were 87 pregnancies that occurred after THA in 51 patients. Among the 51 first post-THA pregnancies, 31 pregnancies (61%) resulted in vaginal delivery and 20 in caesarean section (39%). Ipsilateral hip pain was reported by 13 women (21 pregnancies). Regarding sexual activity, 81% of sexually active women reported hip-related problems during sexual activity before THA. After THA, 48% reported greater satisfaction with sexual activity, attributed to reduced pain and improved mobility.

DISCUSSION: This study presents one of the largest cohorts to date evaluating pregnancy and sexuality after THA in young women. Findings suggest that vaginal delivery is generally safe after THA, and sexual activity improves due to pain relief and greater mobility. These insights may support informed decision-making in young women considering THA and highlight the importance of addressing both pregnancy and sexuality during pre- and postoperative counseling.