Predictors of female sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and qualitative analysis through gender inequality paradigms - University of Regensburg Publication Server

URN to cite this document: urn:nbn:de:bvb:355-epub-375618

McCool-Myers, Megan , Theurich, Melissa A. , Zülke, Andrea, Knüttel, Helge and Apfelbacher, Christian J. (2018) Predictors of female sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and qualitative analysis through gender inequality paradigms. BMC Women's Health 18, p. 108.

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Date of publication of this fulltext: 31 Jul 2018 06:26

at publisher (via DOI)

at PubMed

Zum PubMed Central-Eintrag dieses Artikels

Other URL: http://doi.org/10.1186/s12905-018-0602-4

Abstract

Abstract

Background
Female sexual dysfunction affects 41% of reproductive-age women worldwide, making it a highly prevalent medical issue. Predictors of female sexual dysfunction are multifaceted and vary from country to country. A synthesis of potential risk factors and protective factors may aid healthcare practitioners in identifying populations at risk, in addition to revealing modifiable factors to prevent sexual dysfunction among reproductive-age women.

Methods
Observational studies which assessed the prevalence and predictors of female sexual dysfunction in reproductive-age women were systematically sought in relevant databases (2000–2014). Significant predictors were extracted from each included publication. A qualitative analysis of predictors was performed with a focus on types of sexual regimes and level of human development.

Results
One hundred thirty-five studies from 41 countries were included in the systematic review. The types of predictors varied according to the location of the study, the type of sexual regime and the level of gender inequality in that country/region. Consistently significant risk factors of female sexual dysfunction were: poor physical health, poor mental health, stress, abortion, genitourinary problems, female genital mutilation, relationship dissatisfaction, sexual abuse, and being religious. Consistently significant protective factors included: older age at marriage, exercising, daily affection, intimate communication, having a positive body image, and sex education. Some factors however had an unclear effect: age, education, employment, parity, being in a relationship, frequency of sexual intercourse, race, alcohol consumption, smoking and masturbation.

Conclusions
The sexual and reproductive lives of women are highly impacted by female sexual dysfunction, and a number of biological, psychological and social factors play a role in the prevalence of sexual dysfunction. Healthcare professionals who work with women should be aware of the many risk factors for reproductive-age women. Future prevention strategies should aim to address modifiable factors, e.g. physical activity and access to sex education; international efforts in empowering women should continue.

Export bibliographical data

Item type:

Article

Date:

22 June 2018

Institutions:

Medicine > Institut für Epidemiologie und Präventivmedizin > Medical Sociology
Central Institutions > University Library

Projects:

Open Access Publizieren (DFG)

Identification Number:

Value	Type
10.1186/s12905-018-0602-4	DOI
29929499	PubMed ID
PMC6013982	PubMedCentral-ID

Keywords:

Female sexual dysfunction; Female sexual disorders; Premenopausal; Reproductive-age; Prevalence; Predictors; Risk factors; Gender inequality; Narrative synthesis

Dewey Decimal Classification:

600 Technology > 610 Medical sciences Medicine

Status:

Published

Refereed:

Yes, this version has been refereed

Created at the University of Regensburg:

Partially

Item ID:

37561

Owner only: item control page

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