Sexual Dysfunction in Female Patients on Hemodialysis / 대한남성과학회지

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We sought to identify the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and to evaluate the six domains of sexual function in female hemodialysis patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We undertook a cross-sectional study based on self-administered questionnaires and reviews of laboratory data that were collected from February to June 2007. A total of 49 women (mean age 52.3 years) from eight dialysis units were enrolled. Sexual function was assessed by the Korean version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). RESULTS: Forty-one patients (83.7%) reported sexual dysfunction during the prior 6 months. The mean score for sexual function in the sexual dysfunction group was 15.1, much lower than 29.6 for the normal sexual function group (t=10.2, p=0.000). In the six domains of sexual function for the dysfunction group, orgasm (range 0~6.0) was 2.4, desire (range 1.2~6.0) 1.9, and arousal (range 0~6.0) 1.9. The sexual dysfunction group was significantly older in age and lower in serum albumin level as compared with normal sexual function group. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual dysfunction in female patients on hemodialysis was highly prevalent. Interventions to promote orgasm, desire, and arousal in female patients on hemodialysis should be developed.