Background: Sexuality is an important part of health, quality of life and general wellbeing. Diabetes has long been considered a major cause of impaired sexual function. Neuropathy, vascular impairment, and psychological complaints have been implicated in the pathogenesis of decreased libido, low arousability, decreased vaginal lubrication, orgasmic dysfunction and dyspareunia among diabetic women.
Objective: To investigate sexual dysfunction in diabetic females living at Sohag Governorate.
Patients and methods: This case–control hospital-based descriptive study was carried out at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Sohag University Hospitals on two groups; the case (Diabetic) group and the control (Non-diabetic) group. Each group included 100 sexually active nonpregnant women between 20 to 40 years of age. Their sexual function was assessed using Female Sexual Function Index Questionnaire.
Results: The rate of feeling sexually aroused, level of sexual aroused, confidence about becoming sexually aroused during sexual life and rate of being satisfied with the arousal during sexual activity were significantly decreased in diabetic group than non-diabetic group. The difficulty of becoming lubricated “wet" during sexual activity and its maintaining until completion of sexual activity were significantly increased in diabetic group than non-diabetic group. The difficulty until reaching orgasm and satisfaction with the ability to reach orgasm were significantly decreased in diabetic group than non-diabetic group. Satisfaction with the amount of emotional closeness, the sexual relationship with the partner and the overall sexual life were significantly decreased in diabetic group than non-diabetic group.
Conclusion: The incidence of sexual dysfunction is higher in diabetic women.