Psychological and Socio-Demographic Predictors of Sexual Function in Women with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background and Objective: Sexual function significantly affects the quality of life in women with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). This study aimed to identify predictors of sexual function considering psychological and socio-demographic factors. Materials & Methods: The study was conducted in Tabriz, 2021, with 130 women who had POI. Data were collected using the female sexual function index (FSFI), perceived stress scale (PSS), Spielberger state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI), Rosenberg self-esteem scale (RSES), Beck depression scale (BDI), and socio-demographic characteristics questionnaire. The Pearson correlation test was used to determine the correlation between psychological variables and the total sexual function score. Additionally, the general linear model was used to identify the predictors of sexual function.  Results: The mean (SD) score of sexual function was 13.8 (6.7). There was a significant negative correlation between stress (r=-0.22, p=0.018), state anxiety (r =-0.13, p=0.153), trait anxiety (r=-0.26, p=0.005), depression (r=-0.39, p<0.001) with total sexual function score. On the other hand, self-esteem had a positive correlation (r= 0.34, p<0.001) with sexual function score. Moreover, variables such as desire to pregnancy and type of pregnancy were predictors of sexual function. Sexual function score was significantly higher in women who wanted to become pregnant than in ones who did not (p=0.012) and in women who became pregnant naturally than in women who became pregnant through assisted reproductive techniques (ART) (p=0.002). Conclusion: The study findings indicate that the sexual function of women with POI is influenced not only by psychological factors but also by their desire to become pregnant and the type of pregnancy they have. Given the intricate interplay between psychological and physical factors and sexual function among infertile women, further research is warranted in this area.

Psychological and Socio-Demographic Predictors of Sexual Function in Women with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: A Cross-Sectional Study Keywords:

Premature Menopause , sexual function , Stress , Anxiety