Sexual function in young women with type 1 diabetes: the METRO study.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Reproductive Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Type 1 diabetes (T1D) affects young women, potentially impacting their quality of life and sexual health.
• Intensive insulin regimens are used to manage T1D, but their effect on female sexual function is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in young women with T1D.
• To identify risk factors for FSD in this population, considering different intensive insulin regimens.
• To compare sexual function between diabetic women and age-matched controls.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of women aged 18-35 with T1D on stable couple relationships and not using oral contraceptives were included.
• Participants completed validated questionnaires: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), SF-36, IPAQ, SRDS, and ATT-19.
• FSD was defined by FSFI score > 26.55 and FSDS score < 15.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of FSD was 20% in women with T1D versus 15% in controls (P=0.446).
• Diabetic women using multiple daily injections (MDI) reported lower FSFI and FSDS scores compared to continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) users and controls.
• Mental component summary score and Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SRDS) score were independent predictors of FSFI score in diabetic women.

Conclusions:

• Young women with T1D using insulin pumps (CSII) have similar sexual function to healthy controls.
• Diabetic women on MDI therapy exhibit significantly impaired sexual function.
• Depression and overall mental health status are key independent predictors of FSD in women with T1D.