Sexual dysfunction among secondary school teachers in Ilorin, Nigeria

There is an increasing emphasis on human sexuality, which may reflect cultural and scientific development in recent years.

To determine the prevalence, pattern of sexual dysfunction, and its associated factors among secondary school teachers in Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.

Four hundred fifty consenting teachers were invited to complete an anonymous self administered questionnaire on demography as well as two to three other instruments for the assessment of human sexuality and general mental health status. This was thereafter collected by hand.

The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), a modified Sexual Activity Questionnaire (SAQ) and the General Health Questionnaire-30 (GHQ-30).

The following prevalence rates were found: female anorgasmia (40%), lubrication failure (30%); dyspareunia (12%); erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and male orgasmic disorder (23% each); loss of sexual desire (24%); sexual life dissatisfaction and relationship dissatisfaction 6 months prior to interview (10% each). Age was a significant factor in sexual dysfunction in males (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and male anorgasmia), also in females (lubrication failure, superficial dyspareunia, anorgasmia). Marital status was found to be significant in relationship satisfaction, overall sexual satisfaction and presence of sexual dysfunctions whereas GHQ-30 scores were significant in sexual dysfunction in both genders, except for female anorgasmia and premature ejaculation in males. However, a presence of psychiatric "caseness" was significantly found in overall sexual life dissatisfaction as well as relationship dissatisfaction.

The extent and pattern of sexual dysfunctions found in this study is comparable with those reported in earlier Nigerian studies. Despite this, there is apparently no health services specially designed to address sexual dysfunction among the teacher's group or the general population at large. This study thus draws attention to the urgent need for services geared towards alleviating sexual problems in our society.