Sexual Dysfunction Among Thai Women with Urinary Incontinence in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Sexual Health
• Women's Health

Background:

• Urinary incontinence (UI) is prevalent among women, significantly impacting quality of life and sexual well-being.
• While global studies link UI to sexual dysfunction, specific data for Thai women is limited.
• Understanding the prevalence and factors associated with sexual dysfunction in this population is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among sexually active Thai women with UI.
• To identify factors associated with sexual dysfunction in this cohort.
• To provide data to inform targeted interventions and improve patient care.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 174 sexually active women aged ≥20 years with diagnosed UI.
• Data collection via self-administered questionnaires including demographics, UI severity (UDI-6, ICIQ-UI SF), and sexual function (PISQ-IR).
• Statistical analysis to assess the prevalence and associated factors of sexual dysfunction.

Main Results:

• The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 37.93% in the study population.
• Women with sexual dysfunction were significantly older (mean age 52.02 vs. 48.9 years).
• Mixed and severe UI were associated with lower scores in condition-specific, global quality, and condition-impact domains, though not independently linked to overall dysfunction.

Conclusions:

• Approximately one-third of sexually active Thai women with UI experience sexual dysfunction.
• While UI type and severity did not independently predict overall sexual dysfunction, they affected specific aspects of sexual function.
• Findings highlight the need for integrated care addressing both UI and sexual health in Thai women.