Sexual Dysfunctions in Breastfeeding Females: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: The prevalence of sexual dysfunctions varies from 35.5% to over 80% among postpartum women. Controversy exists regarding the risk factors for female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in the postpartum period. It remains unclear whether breastfeeding types contribute to the development of FSDs differently. Aims: The primary goal of this meta-analysis was to explore the role of baby feeding practices in developing sexual dysfunctions in women. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search using the biomedical databases Scopus, CINAHL, Embase, the Web of Science, and PubMed/Medline. We looked for peer-reviewed, original studies written in English, Polish, and Arabic and published between January 2000 and June 2023. We included publications that reported scores in sexuality domains assessed with the Female Sexual Dysfunction Index (FSFI) and any sexuality-related issues during postpartum. The FSFI scores were combined in a meta-analysis using the random-effects inverse-variance model. Other findings were synthesized with a narrative review. Results: Eighteen articles met the eligibility criteria for the systematic review and meta-analysis. Sexual dysfunctions were detected in all the women, irrespective of the feeding type. Better overall sexual functioning was reported among women using complementary feeding than among those who breastfed exclusively or used baby bottles: 22.16, 95% CI [21.68; 22.65]; 21.61, 95% CI [20.27; 22.95]; and 20.18, 95% CI: [20.93; 61.30], respectively. Slightly lower scores were reported in all the FSFI subscales in exclusively breastfeeding women compared to those using the complementary method. Conclusions: Breastfeeding females experience difficulties in sexual life during the postpartum period, irrespective of the feeding type. These findings can help in designing preventive measures for tackling postpartum sexual dysfunctions in women.