Sexual dysfunction in women with obstructive sleep apnea.
Shyam Subramanian1, Swetha Bopparaju, Ashesh Desai
1Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77025, USA. ssubrama@bcm.edu
Sleep & Breathing = Schlaf & Atmung
|August 12, 2009
Summary
Sexual dysfunction is common in women with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Over half of women with OSA in this study reported poor sexual function, highlighting a need for physician screening.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Sexual Health
- Women's Health
Background:
- Female sexual dysfunction is under-recognized, unlike in male patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
- Chronic diseases can be associated with sexual dysfunction.
- Limited research exists on sexual dysfunction in women with OSA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in pre-menopausal women diagnosed with OSA.
- To compare sexual function in women with OSA to a healthy control group.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 21 pre-menopausal women with OSA (respiratory disturbance index > 5) was compared to 11 healthy pre-menopausal women.
- Participants completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Profile of Mood States (POMS).
Main Results:
- Over half (52.4%) of women with OSA reported poor sexual function (FSFI score < 23), compared to 0% in the control group.
- No significant correlation was found between obesity, OSA severity, or mood disorders and overall sexual dysfunction.
- A correlation was observed between the respiratory disturbance index (RDI) and arousal scores in women with OSA.
Conclusions:
- Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in women with obstructive sleep apnea.
- Healthcare providers should consider routine screening for sexual dysfunction in women diagnosed with OSA.
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