The impact of male sexual dysfunction on the female partner

Abstract

Male sexual dysfunction has received growing national attention. The rates of sexual dysfunction in men are relatively high, and these dysfunctions are often associated with a decrease in quality of life. Despite this growing attention, the impact of these disorders on the female partner is not well understood. A small body of research has explored the effect of male sexual dysfunction on the female partner’s sexual health, and this evidence suggests that male sexual dysfunction can lead to female sexual disorders. The psychological impact has mainly been described in the clinical literature. The general consensus is that male sexual dysfunction increases distress in many female partners. However, for some female partners, male sexual dysfunction may help to sustain a preferred sexual balance in the relationship. These responses indicate the importance of partner inclusion in the treatment of male sexual dysfunction.