Sexual Dysfunctions in University Students: an observational study

Carvalhais A1, Authier H2, Ferreira M3

Research Type

Pure and Applied Science / Translational

Abstract Category

Pelvic Pain Syndromes

Abstract 462
On Demand Pelvic Pain Syndromes / Sexual Dysfunction
Scientific Open Discussion Session 29
On-Demand
Female Sexual Dysfunction Prevention
1. CESPU-IPSN, Gandra - Paredes, Portugal; INEGI, LAETA, Porto, Portugal., 2. CESPU-IPSN, Gandra - Paredes, Portugal, 3. CESPU-IPSN, Gandra - Paredes, Portugal; Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Department, Hospital Senhora da Oliveira, Guimarães, Portugal.
Presenter
Links

Abstract

Hypothesis / aims of study
The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of female sexual dysfunctions (SD) and determine the most common domain of SD in university students. Also, to explore the association between sexual function domains and sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle, clinical conditions, and type of relationship.
Study design, materials and methods
This was a cross-sectional study on a convenience sample of 123 female students. Data were collected by a questionnaire made available online between March and June 2020. The questionnaire included questions for sample selection and characterization. Sexual function was evaluated through the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The FSFI assesses 6 domains of sexual function: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. The total score varies between 2 to 36 and a score less than or equal to 26 indicates sexual dysfunction 1. The chi-square test was applied to compare background participants’ characteristics with and without SD. The Mann-Whitney U test or the Kruskal-Wallis test were used to analyze the association between participants' variables and FSFI domains. The level of significance for all statistical tests was 5%.
Results
One hundred sixty women fulfilled the questionnaire and 37 were excluded (no sexual activity in the previous 4 weeks). The median age (Interquartile range) of study participants was 23(2) years. The vast majority were nulliparous (n=121; 98.4%) and heterosexual (n=117; 95.1%). One third (n=40; 32.5%) were classified with SD. 

Background variables for participants with and without sexual dysfunction are listed in Table 1.
The majority of the participants had normal body mass index (BMI). Regarding lifestyle habits, almost half reported to be involved in regular exercise practice, the majority was non-smokers and reported the consumption of alcoholic beverages. Concerning health conditions, the majority used hormonal contraceptive methods, and few have irregular menstrual cycles, urogynaecological conditions, and comorbidities. Also, the majority referred to have a stable relationship. There was no statistically significant difference in the reported variables between women with or without sexual dysfunction (Table 1).

The results of the association between BMI, lifestyle habits, health conditions, type of relationship, and the different domains of the FSFI are presented in Table 2. Regarding lifestyle habits, no smoking habits were associated with the orgasm domain. Concerning health conditions, the presence of comorbidities and urogynaecological diseases was associated with the lubrication domain. Be in a stable relationship was associated with the orgasm and the satisfaction domains (Table 2).
Interpretation of results
The present study included young women. Approximately one-third of the participants were classified with SD, a slightly lower prevalence rate than reported in a previous study in a similar population 2. 
Concerning BMI, lifestyle habits, health condition, and type of relationship, no differences were found between women with and without SD. The women's sexual response is complex and psychosocial factors should be also considered.

Non-smokers had better scores in the orgasm domain than smokers. This finding is not consensual in the published literature. The same trend was observed in the lubrication domain in those with no comorbidities and no urogynaecological diseases.

Being in a stable relationship had a positive impact on the orgasm and the satisfaction domains. Despite orgasm is related to organic factors and satisfaction with psychological factors, some studies demonstrated that both can be associated.
Concluding message
Sexual dysfunction is a common finding among young women. These findings can help to create further awareness of sexual dysfunction in society. On the other hand, contributes to the knowledge about modifiable factors related to sexual health. Counseling and guidance about lifestyle changes can positively impact the sexual function of young women.
Figure 1 Table 1. Participants’ characteristics
Figure 2 Table 2. P-values of the association between participants' characteristics (BMI, lifestyle habits, health conditions, and type of relationship) and FSFI domains scores.
References
  1. Wiegel M, Meston C, Rosen R. The female sexual function index (FSFI): cross- validation and development of clinical cutoff scores. J Sex Marital Ther. 2005; 31(1), 1–20.
  2. Wallwiener CW, Wallwiener LM, Seeger H, Scho¨nfisch B, Mueck A O, Bitzer J, Zipfel S, Brucker SY, Wallwiener S, Taran F A, Wallwiener M. Sexual Function, Contraception, Relationship, and Lifestyle in Female Medical Students. J Womens Health. 2017; 26(2), 169–177.
Disclosures
Funding NONE Clinical Trial No Subjects Human Ethics not Req'd Data was collected online and was in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki Helsinki Yes Informed Consent Yes
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