The relation between stress and sexual function and satisfaction in reproductive-age women in Iran: a cross-sectional study

J Sex Marital Ther. 2015;41(4):384-90. doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2014.915906. Epub 2014 Jun 5.

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate the relation between stress and different aspects of female sexual function and satisfaction. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 228 reproductive-age women who were referred to the public Health Centers in Ahvaz, Iran. All eligible participants were asked to complete a demographic questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index, and the Perceived Stress Scale. The data were analyzed using independent t test, Pearson correlation, and logistic regression. The mean score of stress was 32.9 (SD = 4.7) in the normal sexual function group and 33.3 (SD = 5.5) in the unfavorable sexual function group. There was a significant correlation between stress and sexual function score, sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, lubrication, sexual pain, and satisfaction (p <.001). Spouses' education (OR = 0.15, CI [0.02, 0.97], p =.04) and frequency of sexual intercourse per week (OR = 1.8, CI [1.3, 2.5], p <.001) had a significant relation with stress. There is a significant relation between women's perceived stress and sexual function and satisfaction. Further analytical studies are needed to show the harmful effects of stress on women's sexual activity and satisfaction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Iran
  • Orgasm*
  • Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / psychology*
  • Stress, Psychological / complications*
  • Stress, Psychological / psychology
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult