Abstract
Objective To assess predictors of sexual function in mid-aged women. Methods We analyzed data of 262 healthy sexually active women (40–59 years) who filled out the Female Sexual Functioning Index (FSFI), the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and a general questionnaire containing female/partner data. Correlations between these two measures were also analyzed. Results Significant inverse correlations were found between all FSFI and MRS scores. This was most evident for the MRS urogenital score in relation to FSFI total, pain and lubrication scores. Multiple linear regression analysis determined best model predicting total FSFI index scores that explained a 66% of the variance. In this model, MRS urogenital score was an important predictor of female sexual function (total FSFI scores) with a significant inverse relation. Additionally total FSFI scores displayed a significant positive correlation with female educational level and HT use and an inverse relation with partner age and female parity. Conclusion Several female/partner factors predicted female sexual function in this mid-aged series. MRS urogenital scores significantly correlated with total FSFI scores.
Highlights
Sexuality is a central aspect of female quality of life reflecting their bio-psycho and social well being [1,2]
The present analysis aimed at correlating Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores and obtaining the best model predicting total FSFI scores, and female sexuality
Total FSFI scores among sexually active women positively correlated with female education and hormone therapy (HT) use
Summary
Sexuality is a central aspect of female quality of life reflecting their bio-psycho and social well being [1,2]. Several personal and partner factors may negatively impact sexuality of mid-aged women. Various reports seem to indicate that during the climacteric there is a link between general quality of life, menopausal symptoms and sexual function [3,4,5]. Sexual dysfunction relates to health status, emotional/stress problems and menopausal quality of life. Climacteric symptoms can be disabling and their alleviation may reduce fatigue and improve self-esteem and social confidence. Women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder have reported poorer health status and worse health-related quality of life than women without the disorder [6]
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