(174) Sexual Dysfunction and Coping Mechanisms among Women Using Hormonal Contraceptives at Kawempe Hospital - A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Sexual dysfunction is a significant problem among women, and it is associated with maladaptive coping mechanisms that can further worsen the situation. In African regions, the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is highly linked to hormonal contraceptives (HCs), a popular method of birth control. Uganda has a relatively high prevalence of HC use among women of reproductive age. However, there is limited research on sexual dysfunction and coping mechanisms among women who use HCs in Kawempe Hospital. Objective This study aimed to (1) estimate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among women who use hormonal contraceptives, (2) describe the coping mechanisms used by women who use hormonal contraceptives, and (3) identify the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with sexual dysfunction among women using hormonal contraceptives at Kawempe Hospital. Methods This was a cross-sectional study where sexually active adult females who were on hormonal contraceptives and gave informed consent were consecutively sampled. The female sexual function index and the SexFlex scale were used to assess sexual dysfunction and coping mechanisms of women using hormonal contraceptives. Means, proportions, chi squares and logistic regression were used to describe the population and determine characteristics associated with sexual dysfunction. Results Of the 401 participants recruited for the study, 386 were analyzed due to 15 incomplete questionnaires. The average age of participants was 29.4 years. Of the participants, almost half 46.6% used implants. The prevalence of FSD was 74.6%. Participants with FSD reported more reflexive 82 (28.47%) and less approach coping 62 (21.53%) than participants without FSD. Factors associated with FSD were relationship dissatisfaction (OR=3.78, 95% CI: 1.68, 8.5), psychological distress (OR=2.12, 95% CI: 1.17, 3.86), finding sex important (OR=0.22, 95%CI: 0.05, 0.88) and approach coping mechanisms (OR=0.49, 95%CI: 0.26, 0.95). FSD was not significantly associated with HCs Conclusions This study found that women HCs have a high prevalence of FSD that is associated with psychological factors such as relationship dissatisfaction and psychological distress. The study suggests that women using HCs should be regularly screened for FSD and that clinicians should help them find solutions to the underlying causes. Disclosure No.