Abstract

Objectives: Endometriosis is a chronic disease that affects about 5-15% of women of reproductive age. Considering the extensive impact of this disease on women's sexual function, the present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in Iranian women with endometriosis and the factors associated with it.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 300 women (150 women with endometriosis and 150 healthy women) at Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran city, Iran, from April to December 2022. Data collection was done using a paper form. Data collection tools included a demographic information questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS software version 24, employing descriptive and analytical statistics.

Results: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 65.34% in women with endometriosis and 46% in healthy individuals. There was a significant relationship between age, menstrual status, stress, anxiety, and depression with sexual dysfunction in women with endometriosis (p < 0.05). Additionally, individuals with endometriosis were more susceptible to stress, anxiety, and depression compared to healthy individuals (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Considering the high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in Iranian women with endometriosis, addressing sexual issues in individuals with endometriosis should be a consideration for healthcare providers, and systematic programs should be implemented to improve their sexual health.

Keywords: Sexual dysfunction, endometriosis, dyspareunia, chronic pelvic pain, female sexual function index, stroma.

Graphical Abstract