Sexual Dysfunction in Human Papillomavirus Positive Females during Reproductive Age

Abstract

Objective: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has been reported 40% of women of all ages and has important and unique effect on quality of life. We aimed to examine sexual function of patients with positive Human Papillomavirus (HPV) test results and investigate whether HPV has any impact on female sexual functioning since it has become a risk and distress of cancer. Methods: In Turkey, since 2014, women aged 30-65 years are screened for free by Family Health Centers with HPV-DNA test for cervical cancer. Sexually active, with at least basic literacy reproductive aged women who applied to oncology department of gynecology with HPV positive test results were included the study. History of systemic, chronic disease, including psychiatric disease or on psychiatric medication, pelvic organ prolapse, history of pelvic surgery (known to cause female sexual dysfunction), pregnant, body mass index (BMI)>30), and premature menopause women were excluded. Female sexual dysfunction index (FSFI) was used to assess FSD. A score of less than 26 indicated sexual dysfunction. HPV negative healthy women created control group. The groups were matched for age, BMI, parity, socio demographic and educational levels. The demographic, obstetric and gynecologic history of all patients was recorded. Results: A total of 119 women were recruited. Among patients, 54 had HPV positive test results while 65 had negative as controls. There was no significant difference between in mean scores of age, partner’s age, duration of marriage and BMI. The two groups were comparable with respect to number of children, education level and occupational status. The mean score on FSFI was 22.3 ± 6.6 points in HPV positive women and 26.3 ± 4.6 in healthy controls. Except for desire, other domains of FSFI (arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain) were statistically significantly lower in HPV positive women compared to controls in our study. Conclusion: Female sexual dysfunction was prevalent among women with HPV infection. These patients are needed to be routinely checked for sexual dysfunction.