Sexual dissatisfaction and associated factors among middle-aged men-data from the Bavarian Men's Health study

Sexual satisfaction is a key aspect of overall well-being, and various factors-including low sexual frequency, poor communication, and societal sexual norms-can contribute to sexual dissatisfaction.

This study assesses the prevalence of sexual dissatisfaction in middle-aged men and explores its associations with different forms of sexual activity, perceived pressure with regard to sexuality of men, and the perceived importance of sexuality-factors that have been understudied in this population.

Data were collected through the Bavarian Men's Health (BMH) Study using validated questionnaires and clinical interviews.

Sociodemographic, sexual behavioral, and psychological factors were analyzed using chi-square tests, with multiple logistic regression identifying predictors of sexual dissatisfaction.

Among 5,615 men, 54.6% reported sexual dissatisfaction. At the time of the survey, 86.9% were in a partnership, and 90.1% expressed satisfaction with their partnership. In the preceding 3 months, 84.4% reported partnered sexual activities. Sexual dissatisfaction was significantly associated with the absence of a stable partnership and lower frequency of various partnered sexual interactions (eg, vaginal, oral, anal, and partnered masturbation). Additionally, higher frequencies of solo masturbation and greater perceived pressure with regard to sexuality were associated with increased sexual dissatisfaction (all P < .05).

Medical interviews should address factors such as diverse forms of partnered sexual activity, perceived pressure with regard to sexuality and perceived importance of sexuality to identify contributors to sexual dissatisfaction effectively.

Strengths include large sample size and robust methodology. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and lack of data on sexual partners.

The findings highlight that over half of 50-year-old men report sexual dissatisfaction, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive sexual health assessments in clinical practice.