Comparison of sexual function in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background: Infertility is one of the issues affecting sexual function (SF). Infertility is also one of the complications of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis. Objective: This research seeks to assess and compare SF and the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in infertile women with PCOS and endometriosis. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample of 630 (210 infertile women with endometriosis, 210 infertile women with PCOS, and 210 healthy women of childbearing age as the control group). SF was assessed by the female sexual function index (FSFI). Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. The primary outcome measured was FSFI score. Secondary outcome was hospital anxiety and depression scale score. Results: The results showed that the mean score of the total FSFI in the 2 groups of PCOS and endometriosis was lower than the control group (p < 0.001). In addition, women with higher education (university education) had a higher total FSFI. Conclusion: Sexual dysfunction rates are high in infertile women with endometriosis and PCOS. Infertility service providers in infertility centers need to pay attention to this issue.

Keywords

• polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, infertility, sexual dysfunction.