Prevalence Of Female Sexual Dysfunction Research Articles

Prevalence and risk factors of female sexual dysfunction among healthcare personnel in malaysia

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence and risk factors of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among healthcare personnel in selected healthcare facilities in Malaysia. MethodsThis was a cross-sectional study carried out at three large healthcare facilities that were selected by convenience sampling. Within each facility, stratified random sampling was used to select suitable candidates to participate in the study (n=201). Validated questionnaires were used to assess depression, anxiety, sexual function in women and erectile dysfunction (ED) in their partners. ResultsThe prevalence of FSD was 5.5%. Women with sexual dysfunction were more likely to be married longer (OR=4.08; 95% CI; 1.15–4.50), had lower frequency of sexual intercourse (OR=5.00; 95% C; 1.05–23.76) and had a spouse with ED (OR=24.35; 95% CI; 4.55–130.37). Multivariate analysis showed that ED was the strongest predictor for FSD (AOR=27.30; 95% CI; 4.706–159.08). ConclusionOne in eighteen female healthcare personnel suffered from FSD and presence of ED in the partner strongly impacted her sexual function, negatively. The findings highlight the importance of including the male partner in clinical assessment of FSD.

Disfunção sexual feminina em idade reprodutiva - Prevalência e fatores associados

Objectives: Sexual dysfunction is believed to exist in 40% to 70% of the population in Portugal. It is defined by pain or alteration of function in the phases of the sexual act. The present study was designed to estimate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women of reproductive age, the prevalence of the various subtypes of sexual dysfunction, and the factors associated with female sexual dysfunction. Study design: Observational, cross-sectional and analytic study. Setting: Novo Cuidar Family Health Unit, Fafe. Participants:Women aged between 18 and 58 years attending the Novo Cuidar Health Unit. Methods: An anonymous, self-administered questionnaire was given to a random sample of 346 women. The chi-squared and Fisher tests were used to compare proportions, odds ratio were computed to determine the strength of associations, and t-Student and Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare means and proportions of relevant variables. Results: The response rate was 86.4%. The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction was 77,2% (CI95% 72,0-82,7). Orgasmic disorder was the most prevalent subtype in 55,8% (CI95% 51,0-63,9). An association between hormonal contraception and low sexual desire was found (p = 0,003). Sexual aversion was statistically related with previous unwanted sexual experiences (p = 0,001). Conclusions: Female sexual dysfunction in women of reproductive age is highly prevalent, although only half of the women surveyed considered it to be a problem. Significant associations were found with factors that can influence satisfying sexuality.

Female Sexual Dysfunction among Young and Middle‐Aged Women in Hong Kong: Prevalence and Risk Factors

Sexual dysfunction is a serious public health problem that affects women's quality of life. However, there is very little epidemiological data on its incidence in Hong Kong Chinese women. To estimate the prevalence of, and risk factors associated with sexual dysfunction among young and middle-aged women in Hong Kong. The study was part of the ninth Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice survey conducted by the Family Planning Association of Hong Kong in 2007. The dataset comprised 1,510 face-to-face interviews with Hong Kong Chinese women aged 19-49 living in the community. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition classification of sexual dysfunction was used to measure female sexual dysfunction (FSD). At least one form of FSD was reported by 37.9% of the sample. Multivariate analysis showed that having sought medical help for sexual problems (odds ratio [OR] = 4.20), having a partner with erectile dysfunction (OR = 2.44) and premature ejaculation (OR = 2.56), perceiving sex as unimportant to marriage (OR = 1.57), and reporting marital dissatisfaction (OR = 1.45) were all significant risk factors for FSD and its specific components among the sample. However, having liberal attitudes to sex (OR = 0.63) was a protective factor. The prevalence of FSD is lower among Hong Kong Chinese young and middle-aged women than in the United States and some Asian countries. Factors contributing to the risk of FSD span the domains of sexual experience, attitudes to sex, and relationship factors. These findings suggest future directions for the delivery of services addressing the prevention and treatment of FSD.

Prevalence and risk factors of the female sexual dysfunction in a sample of infertile Iranian women

Infertility has a major impact on women's quality of life and emotional well-being. The resulting interpersonal problems extend to women's sexual relationships, with a high proportion of infertile women reporting sexual problems. To determine the prevalence and identify the potential risk factors of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among infertile Iranian women. Using a cross-sectional study design including 12 infertility clinics in five Iranian cities, FSD was assessed in 604 infertile women using the culturally adapted, multidimensional Female Sexual Function Index (IV-FSFI). Depression, anxiety and health-related quality of life (HRQL) were also assessed for all infertile patients. Depression and anxiety were assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) while HRQL was measured using the Short Form 36 (SF-36). Prevalence of FSD in infertile women and associated factors. Infertile women reported significantly lower scores on the FSFI domains in comparison with healthy women. Risk factors for FSD as determined by multilevel analyses were older age and self-reported depression. Furthermore, secondary infertility, lower educational level and higher partner education put women at increased risk for FSD. Among infertile women, sexual dysfunctions seem to be prevalent higher than previously published in Iran. This finding may have implications on the clinical assessment of sexual function and the role of demographic and psychological factors in infertile women.

Sexual Dysfunction in Turkish Men and Women with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common health problem for many men and women all over the world. This study was conducted to determine sexual dysfunction among Turkish men and women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Eighty men and eighty women were included in the sampling. This study inclusion criterion were: awareness of the illness, literate, married, the age range of the diabetic women 18–45, and not pregnant, the age range of the diabetic men 18–65 years, DM diagnosed at least 1 year, able to read the Turkish language, agreed to participate in the study. The data was completed using a questionnaire form, the index of female sexual function (IFSF), and the international index of erectile function (IIEF). The prevalence of male sexual dysfunction was 65.0 %; the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction was 68.8 %. The scores obtained from the subscale of the IFSF were lower for women with SD. There were also significant differences between the two groups in all domains (lubrication, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, clitoral sensation, overall satisfaction) except for the orgasmic function domain (p = 0.000). Scores obtained from the subscale of the IIEF were lower in men with SD, and between the two groups significant differences were found in the domains of erectile function (p = 0.000) and sexual desire (p = 0.010). We also found statistically significant differences between the income level (p = 0.003), family size (p = 0.002), therapy (p = 0.017) and SD in women. Differences for men were found between the age and SD (p = 0.018).

Female Sexual Dysfunction in Patients Treated with Antidepressant—Comparison between Escitalopram and Fluoxetine

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor is one of the most widely used antidepressant and commonly associated with female sexual dysfunction (FSD). This study compares the prevalence of FSD between patients on escitalopram and fluoxetine. The risk factors for FSD were also examined. A cross-sectional study involved 112 female depressed patients (56 each group) who were in remission (as defined in the fourth edition of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders [DSM-IV] during the past 2 months with no significant signs or symptoms of the disturbance and Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale score of ≤10) from the psychiatric clinic in a university hospital. The rates of sexual dysfunction between the two groups were compared. The subjects were interviewed by using Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV. Sexual dysfunction was assessed with the Malay Version of the Female Sexual Function Index. The prevalence of FSD was 44.6% for all patients, 55.4% for the fluoxetine group, and 33.9% for the escitalopram group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed no significant difference in the risk of FSD between the two groups. Moderate to high dosing was the only significant associated factor for FSD (odds ratio = 4.89, 95% confidence interval = 1.94-12.33). There was no significant difference in the risk of having FSD between patients treated with fluoxetine or escitalopram. Patients on higher dosage of antidepressant have higher risk of having FSD.

Perceived Prevalence and Definitions of Sexual Dysfunction as Predictors of Sexual Function and Satisfaction

Evidence for the influence of sexual beliefs on sexual functioning and satisfaction has mainly emanated from clinical lore. Empirical investigations on this topic remain sparse. This study investigated whether beliefs regarding prevalence and definitions of male and female sexual dysfunctions predicted sexual function and satisfaction in a sample of 131 undergraduate students. Results indicated that higher perceived prevalence of male and female sexual dysfunctions was predictive of lower sexual functioning and poorer sexual satisfaction in women. For the male participants, none of the examined sexual beliefs emerged as significant predictors of their sexual functioning or satisfaction. Surprisingly, it was also found that participants estimated the prevalence of female sexual dysfunctions to be higher than male sexual dysfunctions, while defining male sexual dysfunctions more broadly than female sexual dysfunctions. Possible mechanisms for the findings are provided.

Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunction among Postmenopausal Women with and without Metabolic Syndrome

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a multifactorial disease characterized by the co-occurrence of impaired glucose tolerance/diabetes, central obesity, high levels of triglycerides, low levels of high-density lipoprotein, and hypertension. Its prevalence is higher in menopausal women. We, and others, have recently shown that female sexual dysfunction (FSD) affects menopausal women. Whether the presence of MetS may be linked to a higher risk of FSD in menopausal women is unknown. (i) to evaluate the prevalence of FSD in women with MetS (based on National Cholesterol Education program-Adult Treatment Panel III 2009 criteria) in comparison with healthy controls and (ii) to evaluate the influence of singular components of MetS on female sexual function. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire, the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), and The Middlesex Hospital Questionnaire were administered to 103 postmenopausal women with MetS and 105 healthy postmenopausal controls (HC). Female sexuality was defined as dysfunctional when FSFI score was <23 and FSDS was >15. FSFI and FSDS were completed by women with and without MetS. The prevalence of women with sexual dysfunction was higher in MetS women than HC (39/103 [37.9%] vs. 20/105 [19%], P = 0.003). The prevalence of both pathological scores in every FSFI domain and FSDS score was higher in MetS women than HC. The logistic regression, considering age and the length of relationship as a common starting point, shows that higher levels of triglycerides are linked to a higher risk of presenting FSD (odds ratio = 2.007 95% confidence interval [1.033-3.901]) in the whole population. Our preliminary results suggest that prevalence of FSD is higher in women with MetS in comparison with healthy controls. Higher levels of triglycerides are linked to a higher risk of presenting FSD.

The Global Online Sexuality Survey (GOSS): Female Sexual Dysfunction among Internet Users in the Reproductive Age Group in the Middle East

The exact prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in the Middle East is exceptionally difficult to measure in light of its sensitive nature and the conservative tinge of the population. The Global Online Sexuality Survey-Arabic-Females (GOSS-AR-F) is a community-based study of female sexuality in the Middle East through an online survey. Prevalence of risk for female sexual dysfunction (rFSD) in the reproductive age group and its vulnerability to various risk factors. GOSS-AR-F was offered via online advertising. The survey is comprised of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire among other questions. Out of 2,920 participants, 344 participants completed all survey questions. Average total FSFI score was 23 ± 6.5, with 59.1% of participants suffering rFSD. Age adjusted prevalence of rFSD was 59.5%, standardized to World Health Organization World Standard Population. There was a statistically significant higher prevalence of rFSD among cases with subjectively reported depression and male partner-related shortcomings such as erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation as reported by the female participant, in addition to dissatisfaction with partner's penile size, insufficient foreplay, and practice of masturbation. This was not the case with advancing age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, smoking, ongoing pregnancy, mode of previous child delivery, infertility, menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, interpersonal distress, subjectively reported hirsutism, and female genital cutting. Participants were found to require longer duration of coitus and better ejaculatory control but not necessarily a higher coital frequency. Female sexual function in the reproductive age appears to be adversely affected by psychological factors and shortcomings in male sexual function more than anything. These findings point to the possibility that many cases of FSD can be managed with the focus on male partner's ailments and attitudes that are relatively easier to manage.

The Prevalence and Associated Factors of Female Sexual Dysfunction in Korean Premenopausal Women: A Community-Based Study

=A bstract = Purpose: To estimate the prevalence of and factors associated with female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in Korean women. Materials and Methods: A total of 629 married women in the Chonnam and Gwangju area were randomly included in this study. They were asked to complete a questionnaire on FSD, which consisted of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), as well as psychological, physiological, and demographic factors. Results: The mean age of the women was 36.97 years and the mean FSFI score was 25.56 out of a total score of 36. Based on the total FSFI score, 42.9% of the women had scores less than the cut-off point of 25, the assessed definition of FSD. The prevalence of FSD by age group was: 31.3% for 20 ∼29 year olds, 41.6% for 30∼39 year olds, and 51.8% for 40∼49 year olds. A stepwise regression analysis found that women with higher levels of sexual distress, lower frequency of sexual intercourse, lower levels of life satisfaction, a less important appraisal of sex, a higher likelihood of depression, more conservative attitude toward sex, irregular menstrual cycle, higher age, chronic disease, and a smoking habit were more likely to suffer from FSD. Conclusions: The prevalence of FSD in Korean women was common and comparable to those reported worldwide. Sexual distress, frequency of sexual intercourse, and life satisfaction were important associated factors of FSD.

Sexual Dysfunction in Women: An Overview of Risk Factors and Prevalence in Indian Women

ABSTRACT Objective To detect the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and also to investigate possible risk factors that may cause sexual dysfunction in the Indian women. Materials and methods The prospective study consisted of 500 women between ages 18 and 66 years from different sociocultural areas. The women were divided into five groups according to their ages &lt;24 years (n = 129), 24 to 30 years (n = 182), 31 to 37 years (n = 125), 38 to 42 years (n = 22), &gt;42 years (n = 42). Female sexual function was assessed with a detailed 19-item FSFI questionnaire to evaluate five domains of sexual dysfunction, i.e. desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm and pain. Demographic characteristics and medical risk factors were evaluated and findings were compared between the women with and without sexual dysfunction. Results Based on total sexual function score, 278 (55.6%) of total 500 patients had sexual dysfunction. The commonest dysfunction was orgasmic (91.7%) followed by lubrication (89.2%). Out of 278 patients, 53 patients (19%) were in the age of more than 38 years in the FSD group. Female sexual dysfunction was more prevalent in illiterate women, 7.19% patients were illiterate in the FSD group as compared to 3.15% patients in the women with no FSD (p = 0.04). It shows that prevalence of female sexual dysfunction was significantly higher in the older age group and in illiterate patients. Conclusion The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction rises with age, lower education level, chronic disease and menopausal status. How to cite this article Aggarwal RS, Mishra VV, Panchal NA, Patel NH, Deshchougule VV, Jasani AF, Sexual Dysfunction in Women: An Overview of Risk Factors and Prevalence in Indian Women. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2012;4(3):134-136.

The Relationship Between Same‐Sex Sexual Experience, Sexual Distress, and Female Sexual Dysfunction

There is little research estimating the occurrence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in women with same-sex sexual experience and none incorporating a key feature of standardized DSM-IV diagnoses-sexual distress. To investigate the prevalence of FSD in women with and without same-sex sexual experience and whether any effects of same-sex sexual experience on women's sexual functioning are moderated by frequency and type of sexual activity. The sample consisted of 5,998 female individuals aged 18-49 years. Prevalence of FSD was assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index and an abbreviated version of the Female Sexual Distress Scale. Measurement of frequency and variation in sexual activity was conducted using a modified version of the Derogatis Sexual Functioning Inventory. Lifetime same-sex experience was assessed with a single question. Prevalence estimates of FSD. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the subsample-specific, mediating role of frequency and mode of sexual activities on FSD. Women with same-sex sexual experience (13.6%) engaged significantly more in all sexual activities (P < 0.01) compared with women without such experience. They further reported significantly more desire (Z = 3.1, P < 0.05) and satisfaction problems (z = 10.6, P < 0.001). When controlling patterns of sexual activities no significant effect of same-sex sexual experience on desire could be detected (OR 1.1, CI 95% 0.9-1.2, P > 0.1), whereas the significant association between same-sex sexual experience and sexual dissatisfaction remained (OR 1.28, CI 95% 1.1-1.6, P < 0.05). Sexual distress was significantly more prevalent in women with same-sex sexual experience (23%) compared with their counterparts (19%). Same-sex sexual experience is related, both directly and indirectly, to FSD. Testing of the mediating factors underlying this association may offer important clues into the etiology of FSD in general. The results further highlight the need to consider sexual distress as a multidimensional concept.

An overview of vulvovaginal atrophy-related sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women

Menopause and the climacteric period are associated with adverse risk factors for the development of vulvovaginal atrophyrelated sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction is a common problem in postmenopausal women, often underdiagnosed, inadequately treated, frequently overlooked, and most often impairing the quality of life of these women. To provide clinicians with current information on vulvovaginal atrophy‑related sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. This study is a literature review on vulvovaginal atrophy‑related sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Relevant publications were identified through a search of PubMed and Medline, selected references, journals, and textbooks on this topic, and were included in the review. The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction increases with age. It is a common multidimensional problem for postmenopausal women that alter the physiological, biochemical, psychological, and sociocultural environment of a woman. Menopause‑related sexual dysfunction may not be reversible without therapy. Estrogen therapy is the most effective option and is the current standard of care for vulvovaginal atrophy‑related sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Sexual dysfunction is a common multidimensional problem for postmenopausal women and often impairs the quality of life of these women. Estrogen preparations are the most effective treatment. Selective estrogen receptor modulators, vaginal dehydroepiandrostenedione, vaginal testosterone, and tissue‑selective estrogen complexes are promising therapies, but further studies are required to confirm their role, efficacy, and safety. Keywords: Estrogen, postmenopausal women, sexual dysfunction, vulvo‑vaginal

Differences in prevalence of sexual dysfunction between primary and secondary infertile women

To examine the impact of type of infertility on female sexual function. Comparison of female sexual function index and prevalence in primary infertile women and secondary infertile women. Hospital. One hundred twenty-two primary infertile and 51 secondary infertile women. Questionnaires (Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI] and Beck Depression Inventory). Prevalence of dysfunction in primary and secondary infertile women. The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction was 64.8% (n = 79) and 76.5% (n = 39) in primary infertile and secondary infertile women, respectively. In analyses of mean overall and subgroup scores of FSFI, there were significant differences between primary and secondary infertile women in the mean scores of orgasm, satisfaction, and total FSFI. Backward logistic regression identified a model with four significant predictors of sexual dysfunction (group, age, income level, and educational level). Secondary infertile women had a 9.5-fold higher risk of sexual dysfunction than primary infertile women after adjustment for confounding factors. There was a higher prevalence of sexual dysfunction in secondary infertile women. Secondary infertile women have decreased sexual desire, orgasm, and satisfaction compared with primary infertile women.

The Impact of Mid‐Urethral Slings for the Treatment of Urodynamic Stress Incontinence on Female Sexual Function: A Multicenter Prospective Study

Urinary incontinence is a common condition that negatively impacts on female sexuality (FS). To evaluate FS before and after a mid-urethral sling (MUS) procedure using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). We included women that were both sexually and nonsexually active at baseline. One hundred fifty-seven women complaining of urodynamic stress incontinence underwent a MUS procedure and were enrolled in the study. All patients answered the Italian translation of FSFI, before and 12 months after surgery. To understand the real impact of the MUS on female sexual function, for the first time in the literature, we also monitored and included in the final analysis all the women who are nonsexually active at baseline. We evaluated the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction according to the FSFI cutoff point (26.55). FSFI total score, pads use, and stress test presurgery and postsurgery. One hundred thirty-three patients completed the study protocol: 105 out of 133 underwent to a trans-obturator procedure, while 28 out of 133 had a retropubic procedure. After the 12-month follow up, 115 out of 133 patients (86%) were dry, 10 improved their symptoms, and the remaining 8 were unchanged. Seventy-nine out of 133 (59%) patients reported an active sexual life before surgery. Fifty-four (41%) reported they were not sexually active before surgery. Twelve months after surgery, 22 out of 54 nonsexually active women (40%) reestablished sexual activity, whereas only 6 out of 79 (7.5%) patients, sexually active at baseline, were not sexually active 1 year after surgery (P < 0.05). After adjusting for multiple testing, only age, menopause, and storage symptoms remained significantly correlated with the FSFI total score postsurgery as independent variables. Conclusions. Our data showed that after a MUS procedure, female sexual function improves. We also found that a very relevant percentage of nonsexually active women reported renewed sexual activity after MUS.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Female Sexual Dysfunction Among Turkish Women Attending a Maternity and Gynecology Outpatient Clinic

Female sexual dysfunction is a common health problem for many women all over the world. This study was constructed to determine risk factors and prevalence of female sexual dysfunction among Turkish women, in Ordu province of Turkey between May 2008 and December 2008. Four hundred and twenty-five married women, between 18 and 56 years of age, who consented to participate, were included in the study. Data was collected by using a questionnaire form and the Female Sexual Function Index. The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction was 52.2%. The risk factors for female sexual dysfunction were, low education level of the woman (odds ratio [OR] = 1.830, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.088–3.078), low education level of the husband (OR = 1.734, 95% CI = 1.094–2.750), being brought up by parents with restrictive attitudes (OR = 1.558, 95% CI = 1.001–2.424), and having genital infections or symptoms (OR = 1.925, 95% CI = 1.213–3.055).

Resident Education and Training in Female Sexuality: Results of a National Survey

Considering the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction, the lack of education and training in female sexual function and dysfunction (FSF&D) during and obstetrics and gynecology residency highlights a need for greater focus on this topic. To assess understanding and confidence among third and fourth year Ob/Gyn residents with respect to FSF&D. An Internet-based survey was constructed to evaluate third and fourth year residents in American Council for Graduate Medical Education-approved Ob/Gyn programs. Residents were asked about familiarity, knowledge, and confidence in treating various aspects of FSF&D, based on the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology (CREOG) Educational Objectives for Ob/Gyn training. They were also queried regarding areas of improvement for their education. Responses to survey instrument. Two hundred thirty-four residents responded. The majority (91.5%) reported attending ≤5 didactic activities on FSF&D. Only 19.6% reported often or always screening women for sexual function problems; most had very little or no knowledge in administering or interpreting screening questionnaires. While many (82.8%) felt confident about obtaining a complete sexual history, only 54.7% felt able to perform a targeted physical exam. Although most residents had cared for women with dyspareunia (55.1%), a minority had managed many women with low desire (18.4%), arousal problems (8.1%), anorgasmia (5.6%), or vaginismus (16.7%). In treating patients, 34-56% reported rarely or never suggesting ancillary therapy such as counseling and medications. However, the majority believed that their confidence would increase through FSF&D lectures (97.9%), FSF&D patient observations (97.4%), rotating with a urogynecologist (94.4%), and online modules (90.6%). Despite CREOG requirements for Ob/Gyn training in female sexuality, most residents feel ill-equipped to address these problems. Additional evidence-based educational and didactic activities would enhance residents' knowledge and confidence in treating these common, quality-of-life issues.

Sexual Dysfunction, Depression, and Anxiety Among Patients of an Inner-City Menopause Clinic

The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in a sample comprising women of mostly Hispanic descent and low socioeconomic status (SES). Demographic data and symptoms related to sexuality were analyzed from 102 women who consecutively came to the Women's Life Center at Hartford Hospital (2004-2008). FSD was defined as decreased sexual desire, dyspareunia, or vaginal dryness; depression as one positive response to a validated three-question screening instrument; and anxiety as a positive response to whether the patient experiences anxiety sometimes or often. The cohort was 52.9 ± 6.8 years of age (mean ± standard deviation [SD]) and 80.0% Hispanic, and 47.8% were unemployed. The majority (92.8%) earned < $25,000, and most (95.8%) did not have a college degree. The prevalence of FSD was 75.6%. The prevalence of depression was 80.9% vs. 52.8% (p = 0.01) and that of anxiety was 76.6% vs. 45.7% (p = 0.01) among women with vs. without a decrease in sexual desire. The prevalence of depression was 83.3% vs. 55.9% (p = 0.03) and that of anxiety was 76.7% vs. 52.9% (p = 0.07) among women who reported dyspareunia vs. those who did not. Problems sleeping was the only variable associated with a statistically higher likelihood of FSD (odds ratio [OR] 5.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.22-25.33, p = 0.03). No significant differences were seen when comparing FSD between Hispanics and non-Hispanics. This sample of predominantly Hispanic women of low SES had a high prevalence of FSD. These data also suggest that poor sleep is significantly associated with FSD and that women of low SES with FSD may have a significantly higher prevalence of depression and anxiety.

Study of the Prevalence of Female Sexual Dysfunction in Sexually Active Women 18 to 40 years of Age in Medellín, Colombia

The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in Colombia has not been adequately studied. A reliable estimate of the prevalence of FSD can be helpful for the adequate planning of reproductive health and research activities. Measure the prevalence of female sexual complaints in a sample of sexually active women aged 18-40 years in a city of Colombia. A self-administered validated questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), was administered to 410 sexually active women at different focal groups. A cutoff value of 26.5 was used to define female sexual complaint. Ten questions on age, educational level, socioeconomic status, marital status, cohabitation, depressive feelings, use of antidepressive drugs, menstrual cycle, offspring, and contraception were included. The primary end point was the percentage of women having a score equal or less than 26.5. In the study group, 117 of 391 women scored less than 26.5 for a prevalence of sexual complaints of 30%. The independent variables associated with sexual complaints were low educational level, the feelings of depression, and the use of antidepressive drugs. The present study found a low FSFI score in 30% of sexually active women aged 18-40 years in the city of Medellin, Colombia, which could be indicative of sexual complaints.

Effect of Sexual Function on Health-Related Quality of Life Mediated by Depressive Symptoms in Cardiac Rehabilitation. Findings of the SPARK Project in 493 Patients

Empirical evidence suggests associations between cardiovascular diseases, sexual functioning, depressive symptoms, and quality of life. However, to date, the interrelation of these constructs has not been examined simultaneously in a structural analysis. To estimate the prevalence of sexual disorders and depressive symptoms and to examine the association between sexual disorders, depressive symptoms, and quality of life in patients in the rehabilitation of cardiovascular disorders. A postal survey in five German inpatient rehabilitation centers for cardiovascular diseases was conducted. Prevalence of sexual disorders and depressive symptoms were assessed using psychometrically sound instruments. To analyze complex associations, structural equation modeling was used. For epidemiological questions, proportions with 95% confidence intervals were calculated. The strength of association in structural equation models was expressed as a standardized regression coefficient. Data from 493 patients were analyzed (response rate 22.7%). At least moderate erectile dysfunction proved to be present in 20.3% of men. The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction lay at 43.1%. At least moderate depressive symptoms were present in 14.4% of men and 16.5% of women. A considerable association between sexual functioning and quality of life was found in both sexes, which was largely mediated by depressive symptoms. Major drawbacks of the study are imprecision of the estimates due to limited sample size and questionable generalizability of the findings due to possible self-selection bias. Considering the high prevalence of depressive symptoms and their role as a mediating factor between sexual functioning and quality of life, it is recommended to routinely screen for depression in men and women with cardiac disease.