Evaluating co-occurrence of depression and sexual dysfunction and related factors among Iranian rural women: a population-based study

Abstract

Background and objectives: Sexual dysfunction and mood disorders have a high prevalence rate and their co-occurrence has been reported in previous studies. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of co-occurrence of sexual dysfunction and depression and related factors in women. Materials and methods: This descriptive-analytical study was carried out on 826 married rural women aged 15e49 years in Sari, Iran in 2018, selected by random sampling. The participants filled the demographic and fertility questionnaires, as well as Beck's Depression Inventory and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Results: In this study, 18% of the participants experienced the co-occurrence of depression and sexual dysfunction. In addition, results of the multiple logistic regression showed that forced marriage (OR ¼ 0.31, CI 95%: 0.15 to 0.64, P < 0.001), a one-level increase in the education of the spouse (OR ¼ 0.76, CI 95%: 0.59 to 0.98, P < 0.041), lack of history of depression (OR ¼ 0.36, CI 95%: 0.20 to 0.66, P < 0.001) and lack of vaginal infection (OR ¼ 0.41, CI 95%: 0.27 to 0.62, P < 0.001) were considered as factors contributing to a decline in the co-occurrence of depression and sexual dysfunction. On the other hand, not having a private bedroom (OR ¼ 1.63, CI 95%: 1.09 to 2.43, P < 0.017), no vehicle (OR ¼ 1.52, CI 95%: 1.02 to 2.27, P < 0.038), a history of sychiatric diseases (OR ¼ 2.09, CI 95%: 1.2.0 to 3.65, P < 0.009), lack of chronic diseases (OR ¼ 2.11, CI 95%: 1.03 to 4.31, P ¼ 0.039) and lack of use of antidepressants (OR ¼ 2.03, CI 95%: 2.03 to 1.03, P < 0.039) increased the co-occurrence of depression and sexual dysfunction. Conclusion: According to the results of the study, about one-fifth of the married rural women experienced the cooccurrence of depression and sexual dysfunction. If healthcare providers detect one of the disorders of depression or sexual dysfunction in a patient, it is suggested that the person be assessed in terms of the other disorder and the proper treatment be applied. Furthermore, the healthcare personnel must pay attention to factors related to the co-occurrence of these disorders in addition to providing a treatment program.

Effects of Group and Individual Culturally Adapted Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Depression and Sexual Satisfaction among Perimenopausal Women

“…Bakhshi et al [ 24 ] also found a negative relationship between depression and sexual satisfaction among Iranian couples. Khademi et al [ 25 ] reported that women who suffered from mild to severe levels of depression exhibited sexual dysfunction. Thus, one of the major negative consequences of depression could be an increase of sexual dissatisfaction, which is assumed to be a factor for the increasing rate of divorce [ 26 ].…”