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Sexual dysfunction in combat veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.
Daniel J Cosgrove1, Zachary Gordon, Jonathan E Bernie
1Division of Urology, University of California, San Diego, Medical Center, San Diego, California 92103-8897, USA.
Urology
|November 14, 2002
Summary
Combat veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) experience significantly higher rates of sexual dysfunction, particularly erectile dysfunction, compared to those without PTSD. This highlights the need for clinicians to address these issues proactively.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Sexual Medicine
- Veterans' Health
Background:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is prevalent in combat veterans.
- Sexual dysfunction is a potential consequence of PTSD.
- Previous studies suggest a link between combat exposure, PTSD, and sexual health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and severity of sexual dysfunction in male combat veterans with and without PTSD.
- To identify clinical correlates of sexual dysfunction in this population.
- To utilize a validated instrument for assessing sexual function.
Main Methods:
- The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) was administered to assess sexual function.
- A demographic and health questionnaire was used to gather additional data.
- Two groups of male combat veterans were studied: those undergoing PTSD treatment and age-comparable controls without PTSD.
Main Results:
- Veterans with PTSD had significantly lower mean total IIEF scores compared to controls.
- Patients with PTSD reported poorer overall satisfaction and orgasmic function.
- The rate of erectile dysfunction was markedly higher in veterans with PTSD (85%) versus controls (22%).
Conclusions:
- Combat veterans with PTSD exhibit a substantially higher prevalence of sexual dysfunction, including erectile dysfunction.
- Impairment is noted in specific domains of sexual function, though not all.
- The IIEF can aid in assessing treatment response for erectile dysfunction, and clinicians should proactively discuss sexual health concerns with veterans with PTSD.