Dyspareunia and Biomarkers: A Case Study of Sexual Dysfunction in Moderate Endometriosis

Endometriosis, a chronic hormone-dependent condition affecting 10% of women globally, impacts pelvic organs and occasionally distant sites, causing pain, infertility, and sexual dysfunction. Biomarkers such as IL-8, IL-10, and BDNF influence inflammation, nerve sensitization, and pain. This study investigates their relationship with sexual quality of life, focusing on dyspareunia and related dysfunctions, as assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Dyspareunia, a prominent symptom of endometriosis, is linked to lower FSFI scores in domains such as desire (mean 3.38), satisfaction (mean 3.28), and pain (mean 3.07). Elevated IL-8 tissue levels negatively correlated with desire (r = -0.649, p < 0.05) and satisfaction (r = -0.813, p < 0.01). Similarly, higher BDNF tissue levels were associated with increased pain (r = -0.435, p < 0.01) and reduced satisfaction (r = -0.252, p < 0.05). Patient factors such as higher endometriosis severity scores (mean 26.3, p < 0.05) and surgical history correlated with lower desire and satisfaction. Conversely, physical activity improved pain scores (p < 0.01) and enhanced desire and lubrication (p < 0.05), likely through reduced inflammation and better circulation. These findings highlight the complex interplay between biomarkers, individual factors, and sexual dysfunction in endometriosis, underscoring the need for personalized therapeutic approaches.