Assessing Sexual Dysfunction in Female Medical Students: The Role of Contraceptive Methods

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) encompasses conditions characterized by disturbances in sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, and/or pain during intercourse. Influenced by multiple factors, including psychological conditions and hormonal status, it is particularly relevant for medical students, a group prone to mental distress and of reproductive age. This cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence of FSD and its association with contraceptive use among female medical students in Brazil. A total of 241 participants completed an anonymous online survey covering sociodemographic data, sexual health history, and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Most participants reported prior contraceptive use (80.9%), and 66.8% were current users. Hormonal contraceptives (HC), particularly oral pills and intrauterine devices, were the most frequently used, surpassing non-hormonal methods. The prevalence of FSFI-defined sexual dysfunction was 47.6%. Women using HC had higher FSFI scores than those using non-hormonal methods or no contraception. In multivariate logistic regression, intrauterine device use remained independently associated with lower odds of FSD. These findings suggest a potential protective role of HC, particularly intrauterine devices, on female sexual function in this population, although evidence remains heterogeneous across studies. Further research is needed to clarify the relationship between contraception and sexual function in young women exposed to academic stress.