Fibromyalgia syndrome tied to sexual dysfunction in women

Sexual dysfunction (SD) appears to be common in women with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), which may affect desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain during sexual intercourse, according to a Spain study. Additionally, a moderate direct association exists between FMS and SD.

Some 170 women volunteered to participate in this cross-sectional study between September 2019 and February 2020. Of the participants, 88 were in the FMS group and 82 in the control group. The primary outcomes were SD, evaluated through the Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI), and physical activity levels, assessed using a structured interview.

Significant differences were observed in every domain and total SD score between the FMS and control groups (p<0.05). A moderate significant direct correlation was also noted when examining the relationship between FMS and SD risk (χ²[1]=37.071; p<0.05; phi=0.467).

In addition, there were statistically significant differences found between the two groups in terms of desire, pain, and total FSFI scores (p<0.05) when physical activity levels were not reached. However, when levels of physical activity were reached, between-group differences were found in all domains, including the total FSFI score (p<0.05).

“Ultimately, the results showed that, irrespective of physical activity, women with FMS reported increased SD,” the investigators said.

“Sexual function should be evaluated in women with FMS, while future treatments should address this clinical area with the aim of managing SD in this population,” they added.

This study was limited by self-reported outcome measures.

FMS is a rheumatic disorder that has been shown to influence self-perception of sexuality, according to the investigators.