Sexual dysfunction in women suffering from major depressive disorder: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Compared to a healthy population, sexual dysfunction is higher in major depressive disorder (MDD). Identification and management of sexual dysfunction profoundly impact marital satisfaction, quality of life, and compliance with treatment in patients with depression. Aims and Objectives: The primary objective was to determine the proportion of sexual dysfunction among women suffering from MDD attending the psychiatry department of a tertiary care center. The secondary objectives were (1) to study the correlation between the severity of depression and sexual dysfunction in women with MDD and (2) to study the relationship between sociodemographic and clinical variables with sexual dysfunction. Settings and Design: This was a cross-sectional study carried out among 40 women diagnosed with MDD attending the psychiatry department of our tertiary care institute. Materials and Methods: After taking informed consent, relevant sociodemographic details and clinical variables were recorded using a semi-structured questionnaire. MDD was diagnosed according to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition, and its severity was assessed using Hamilton rating scale for depression. Sexual dysfunction was measured using the Arizona sexual experience scale. Statistical Analysis: Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to assess the correlation between the severity of depression and sexual dysfunction. The Chi-square test was used to test the relationship between categorical variables. Analysis of data was done using appropriate statistical software. Results: The proportion of sexual dysfunction among women with MDD was 65%. The most common sexual dysfunction was low sexual desire (57.5%). There was a positive correlation between the severity of depression and the presence of sexual dysfunction, with Spearman’s correlation coefficient (rho = 0.765, P = 0.000). Age, attainment of menopause, history of alcohol and tobacco use in the spouse, and severity of depression were significant with sexual dysfunction using the Chi-square test. Conclusions: The proportion of sexual dysfunction was high among women suffering from MDD. The severity of depression and the presence of sexual dysfunction are positively correlated.