Effect of Metabolic Syndrome on Sexual Function in Pre- and Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

Female sexual dysfunction is a prevalent and multidimensional disorder related to many biological, psychological, and social determinants. The authors assessed the effect of one of the many factors affect sexual function-metabolic syndrome-on female sexual function. They equally divided 400 women participants among 4 groups: (a) premenopausal with metabolic syndrome, (b) premenopausal without metabolic syndrome, (c) postmenopausal with metabolic syndrome, and (d) postmenopausal without metabolic syndrome. The authors used the Female Sexual Function Index to assess women's sexual function. Female sexual dysfunction was found more often in both pre- and postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome (p =.001). Overall Female Sexual Function Index score and satisfaction, pain, and desire domain scores independently of the menopause status showed statistically significant differences across women with metabolic syndrome in comparison with participants with no metabolic syndrome (p <.05). The authors also evaluated the associations among 5 components of metabolic syndrome and Female Sexual Function Index scores. Higher fasting glucose levels were significantly associated with the Female Sexual Function Index score (p <.05). This study shows that sexual dysfunction is more prevalent in pre- and postmenopausal women with the metabolic syndrome.

Possible Role of Nrf2 in Oxidative and Inflammatory Processes During Menopause

“…Epidemiological studies show that the majority of postmenopausal women are affected by skeletal fragility caused by an excessive bone resorption [24]. Earlier, it was closely related to oxidative stress.…”

“…Additionally, the presence of higher level of interleukin-6 (IL-6), and lower level of urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) were also documented [5]. A side effect of metabolic syndrome is the female sexual dysfunction, in both pre-and post-menopausal women [24].…”

Recognising female sexual dysfunction as an essential aspect of effective diabetes care

“…Consequently, every factor contributing to normal sexual functioning can be a potential cause of dysfunction. The first phase of female sexual response is governed by a combination of neuromuscular and vasocongestive events including increased clitoral size (diameter and length), vaginal lubrication and wall engorgement (Otunctemur et al, 2014). Orgasm is the culmination of sexual arousal, although Lloyd (2005) reported approximately 90% of women report orgasm from some form of sexual stimulation, most women do not and some never experience orgasm solely from sexual intercourse, whereas 100% of men routinely experience orgasm solely from sexual intercourse.…”

“…Additionally the prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome increases during the fifth and sixth decades of women's lives and also coincides with the onset of the menopause hence associated with the lower oestrogenic milieu which enhances risk factors for metabolic syndrome such as increased insulin resistance, obesity and hyperglycaemia (Otunctemur et al, 2014). Hyperglycaemia is the main determinant of preventable vascular and neuropathic complications of diabetes and control of risk factors in a person centred partnership is the focus of effective diabetes care (Phillips, 2012).…”

The impact of anxiety on sexual satisfaction in menopausal women

“…The changes related to sexual life that arise with the menopause are not only disorders in sexual function but are also multi-dimensional changes covering emotions, behaviour and actions (Masliza et al 2014;Kaufert et al 2008). During the decrease in oestrogen levels that occurs in the transition period of the menopause, dryness and somatic changes of the vagina, changes in the vascular and urogenital systems, bone loss, mood and sleep disorders and a decrease in cognitive functions occur (Otunctemur et al 2015;Ayaz 2013). Women complain about a decrease in libido and arousal, and of a deficiency in vaginal lubrication in connection with these changes (Kaufert et al 2008;Sehhatie-Shafaie et al 2014;Constantine et al 2015).…”