A cross-sectional study of female sexual function and dysfunction during pregnancy

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Women's Health
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Sexual function can change during pregnancy, yet studies linking these changes to androgen levels are limited.
• Understanding hormonal influences on female sexual function during gestation is crucial for women's health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between sexual function scores and serum androgen levels in pregnant women.
• To assess changes in female sexual function across the three trimesters of pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 589 healthy pregnant women across first, second, and third trimesters.
• Evaluation included the Index of Female Sexual Function (IFSF) questionnaire and measurement of serum androgen levels (testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, free testosterone).

Main Results:

• Total IFSF scores were significantly lower in the third trimester (15.9 +/- 12.3) compared to the first (21.4 +/- 10.1) and second (22.3 +/- 10) trimesters.
• The most prevalent sexual dysfunctions were diminished clitoral sensation (94.2%), lack of libido (92.6%), and orgasmic disorder (81%).
• No significant correlation was found between overall sexual function scores and serum androgen levels.

Conclusions:

• Sexual function scores decrease in the third trimester of pregnancy, independent of androgen levels.
• The study highlights a decline in sexual function during late pregnancy, with specific dysfunctions noted.
• A future prospective study is proposed to further elucidate the relationship between sexual function and androgens during pregnancy.