Sexual health and quality of life among healthcare workers during COVID-19 era: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background COVID-19 era burdened the sexual function and overall quality of life of the general population. Healthcare workers (HCWs) have been found to display higher levels of mental and physical health affection. Objective To demonstrate the effect of COVID-19 on sexual function and quality of life among HCWs. Methods In this cross-sectional study, participants completed the work-related quality of life questionnaire (WRQoL), the international index of erectile function score (IIEF5) for males, and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for females. Results The survey participants were 174 HCWs, and a control group of 132 non-HCWs of both sexes. HCWs had significantly lower WRQoL subfactors and total scale, IIEF5, and FSFI scales; compared to controls. Among HCWs, those taking night shifts had significantly lower WRQoL subfactors and total scale, IIEF5, and FSFI scales than those who were not working by night. Also, paramedics had a significantly lower WRQoL total scale than medical doctors. Average weekly work hours correlated negatively with WRQoL total scale, IIEF5, and FSFI scales. Conclusions During the period of COVID-19, sexual function, and quality of life among HCWs were reduced compared to the control group, which seems to be more related to their work-related factors.