• Ramezani TehraniFahimehFReproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.msimbar@sbmu.ac.ir., Maryam Farahmand, Masoumeh Simbar, and Hosein Malek Afzali.
• Reproductive Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.msimbar@sbmu.ac.ir.
• Arch Iran Med. 2014 Oct 1; 17 (10): 679-84.

BackgroundSexual function results from complex interactions of neurovascular and endocrine factors. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction varies in different countries. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and the related factors among reproductive age women in Iran.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out on 784 married women living in urban areas of 4 provinces of Iran. Participants were recruited using a stratified, multistage probability cluster sampling method. Female sexual function was assessed using the Female sexual function index questionnaire. Data was analyzed using Spearman and logistic regression tests.ResultsThe results demonstrated 27.3% prevalence of sexual dysfunction including 0.8% severe, 20.3% moderate, and 6.3% mild sexual dysfunction. Among women with sexual dysfunction, the frequency of desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasmic disorders were 35.6%, 39.9%, 18.9%, and 27.3%, respectively. Dyspareunia was reported by 56.1% of women. Among the participants, 15.2% were unsatisfied with their sexual life. There was a statistically significant relationship between sexual dysfunction and duration of married life, perceived attraction of spouse, overall satisfaction with routine life and the women's ability to express their sexual desires. ConclusionSexual dysfunction is prevalent among Iranian women. A comprehensive service including counseling programs for sexual dysfunction at primary health care is highly recommended.

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