Prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women: Results of a survey study of 329 women in an outpatient gynecological clinic

TLDR

Few studies have investigated the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in nonclinical samples. The study surveyed 329 healthy women aged 18–73 at a Women’s Wellness Center using a standardized sexual function questionnaire, with most participants married or partnered and employed. Among the 329 women, 48.5% reported at least weekly intercourse while 28.4% were not sexually active; common problems included anxiety or inhibition (38.1%), lack of pleasure (16.3%), orgasm difficulty (15.4%), lubrication issues (13.6%) and painful intercourse (11.3%), all more frequent post‑menopause, yet 68.6% rated their relationship satisfactory, with age and relationship status predicting satisfaction but education, religion, and employment showing no effect.

Abstract

Abstract Few studies have investigated the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in nonclinical samples. In the present study, a standardized sexual function questionnaire was administered to 329 healthy women, aged 18–73 years, all of whom were enrolled in a Women's Wellness Center. About two-thirds of the sample were married or living with a partner, and most women were employed outside of the home. A broad range of sexual behavior frequencies were observed, with 48.5% reporting at least weekly intercourse, compared to 28.4% who were not sexually active at the time of study. Among the most common sexual problems reported were anxiety or inhibition during sexual activity (38.1%c), lack of sexual pleasure (16.3%), and difficulty in achieving orgasm (15.4%c). Other common problems were lack of lubrication (13.6%)) and painful intercourse (11.3%), each of which was significantly more prevalent in the postmenopausal group. Despite these difficulties, 68.6%) of the sample rated their overall sexual relationship as satisfactory. Age and relationship status were significant predictors of sexual satisfaction, with older women and singles reporting a higher incidence of sexual problems. Educational level, religious affiliation, and employment status were not predictive of sexual dysfunction in the present study.