Investigating the Relationship between Sexual Function and Obesity in Women

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 M.Sc. of Midwifery, Department of Midwifery, Islamic Azad University of Ghochan, Ghochan, Iran.

2 M.Sc. of Midwifery, Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

3 Specialist of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

4 Student of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction: Sexual issues have the greatest importance in a marriage. However, sexual dysfunction is one of the common and treatable problems, which causes emotional tensions and marital problems. The present study has pointed to the role of body mass index (BMI) on sexual function. This paper was held to determine the relationship between sexual function and obesity in women.
Methods: This correlation study was performed on 286 eligible women that referred to health centers in Mashhad in 2011. The researcher settled at the intended health centers and interviewed the eligible individuals. Interview and observation forms were utilized for data collection. Data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software version 14.5, descriptive, chi-square, Mann-Whitney and regression tests. P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Self-image and life quality were statistically significantly different in the two groups, as well as, in main variables of sexual function including libido (p<0.001), arousal (p<0.001), lubrication (p<0.001), orgasm (p<0.001), sexual satisfaction (p<0.001) and pain (p=0.018). Positive self-image effects orgasm, arousal, lubrication and sexual satisfaction. An effective factor on libido is wife's age and an effective factor on sexual satisfaction is one's age.
Conclusion: Obesity in women is associated with sexual dysfunction, impaired self-image, and reduction of life quality. Therefore, in order to enhance sexual performance, and improve quality of life and self-image, losing weight is mostly recommended obese women.
 

Keywords

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The Iranian Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Infertility
Volume 15, Issue 24 - Serial Number 24
September 2012
Pages 26-33

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