Prevalence and risk factors of female sexual dysfunction among women infected with HIV in conakry

Abstract

BackgroundFemale sexual dysfunction is a highly prevalent sexual health problem but under-investigated in Guinea. This study determined the prevalence and risk factors associated with sexual dysfunction among women infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in Conakry. MethodsThe Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was used in a cross-sectional study design involving 401 women aged 18 years or more in large HIV cohort sites in Conakry, Guinea. A score of less than 26.55 indicated sexual dysfunction. Clinical and sociodemographic characteristics were collected. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with sexual dysfunction. ResultsThe prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 22.2% (95% CI: 18.2–25.9). The types of sexual dysfunctional detected included desire disorder (32.2%), sexual arousal (25.4%), lubrication (23.9%), orgasm (30.7%), sexual satisfaction (32.7%) and pain (28.2%). Multivariate analysis showed that unmarried (adjusted OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.6 to 14.0), age above 35 years old (adjusted OR 7.2, 95% CI 2.1 to 24.0), voluntary HIV screening (OR 4.69: 95% CI: 1.07, 21.93), and current use of antiretroviral drugs (OR 2.68: 95% CI: 1.28, 5.61) were factors associated with sexual dysfunction. ConclusionSexual dysfunction is prevalent in women infected with HIV in Conakry, Guinea. Sociodemographic and clinical factors were associated with the risk of sexual dysfunction. Health care workers should be trained on the screening and management of sexual dysfunction in HIV care services.