Evaluation of sexual function in women with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Sexual health is an important, but often neglected, component of diabetes care. In contrast to erectile dysfunction among men with diabetes, female sexual dysfunction has not been well studied among diabetic women. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women with type 2 diabetes compared to that in an age-matched control group.

In all, 50 married women with type 2 diabetes attending the outpatient endocrine clinic of Ghaem Hospital between April 2007 and March 2008 were selected. Fasting plasma glucose and glycosylated haemoglobin were measured and sexual function was assessed by questionnaire. Scores in each domain of sexual function were compared with those of 40 non-diabetic controls.

Sexual function scores for the sexual drive, arousal, vaginal lubrication, orgasm and overall satisfaction domains were all lower in the diabetic women (p value < 0.05). Duration of diabetes and age correlated negatively with all domains of sexual function. There was no significant relationship between sexual function and body mass index (BMI), glycaemic control, education or employment status. Diabetes significantly impairs the sexual performance of diabetic women. Determinants of sexual function include age and duration of diabetes.