The relation between stress and sexual function and satisfaction in reproductive-age women in Iran: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate the relation between stress and different aspects of female sexual function and satisfaction. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 228 reproductive-age women who were referred to the public Health Centers in Ahvaz, Iran. All eligible participants were asked to complete a demographic questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index, and the Perceived Stress Scale. The data were analyzed using independent t test, Pearson correlation, and logistic regression. The mean score of stress was 32.9 (SD = 4.7) in the normal sexual function group and 33.3 (SD = 5.5) in the unfavorable sexual function group. There was a significant correlation between stress and sexual function score, sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, lubrication, sexual pain, and satisfaction (p <.001). Spouses' education (OR = 0.15, CI [0.02, 0.97], p =.04) and frequency of sexual intercourse per week (OR = 1.8, CI [1.3, 2.5], p <.001) had a significant relation with stress. There is a significant relation between women's perceived stress and sexual function and satisfaction. Further analytical studies are needed to show the harmful effects of stress on women's sexual activity and satisfaction.