Sexual dysfunction and disorders as a consequence of infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

BACKGROUND Sexuality has a key impact on quality of life and on reproductive health. Infertility often results in sexual dysfunction. Despite this close association, addressing sexuality is not a standard component of infertility counselling, especially since in most countries sexual medicine is not a core element of specialist training. Even today, many doctors and patients consider discussing sexuality to be more challenging than other aspects of reproductive medicine. The present review addresses the complex consequences of infertility on sexuality. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Our goals were: (i) to identify the prevalence of sexual problems resulting from infertility, (ii) to evaluate characteristics of sexual difficulties and disorders resulting from infertility and (iii) to analyse factors involved in the complex association between sexual problems and infertility. SEARCH METHODS A systematic search for publications containing keywords related to sexual disorders and infertility was performed via PubMed, Web of Science and Psyndex. A total of 170 manuscripts published between January 1966 and April 2021 were identified after verification of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The reference lists in these manuscripts were searched for further relevant literature. Studies were reviewed for quality-related methodological details. OUTCOMES Couples diagnosed with infertility have an increased risk of sexual disorders. Loss of sexual desire and erectile dysfunction are among the most frequent sexual disorders resulting from infertility. Currently available literature reflects only fragmentarily the complexity of the diverse interactions. Sexuality plays out against the backdrop of interactions among personal, cultural, infertility-related and sexuality-related factors. Considering this complexity, it is crucial to evaluate individual profiles as well as partnership interactions to avoid a negative impact of infertility on a couple’s sexual life. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Identifying sexual disorders as relevant considerations in the context of infertility and exploring their impact during the entire course of diagnosis and treatment constitute an important contribution to comprehensively care for the couples concerned. Counselling should focus on preventing the onset and aggravation of sexual disorders. As sexuality represents a major component of quality of life and of partnership, such support may improve not only the current overall wellbeing but also the chances of a satisfactory long-term partnership and family life.

Editorial: Molecular and cytogenetic research advances in human reproduction

“…Infertility is a frequently diagnosed medical condition affecting over 15% of couples worldwide (1)(2)(3). It has diverse causes, including genetic and environmental factors (4,5) with dozens of molecular and cytogenetic factors being identified associated with male and/or female infertility.…”

Female cancer survivors: sexual function, psychological distress, and remaining fertility

“…The desire to get pregnant and its potential risk of sterility may influence sexual function. Impaired sexual functioning in patients suffering from sterility independent of former cancer disease has been shown in the literature [ 13 ]. Ovarian reserve is a limiting factor in family planning, especially in cancer survivors.…”

Co-Existence of Endometriosis with Ovarian Dermoid Cysts: A Retrospective Cohort Study

“…The pathophysiology of how endometriosis contributes to infertility is not completely elucidated. The proposed mechanisms for endometriosis-associated infertility include dyspareunia, inflammation, anatomical changes through adhesions, impaired ovarian function, and reduced endometrial receptivity [11,12]. Additionally, endometriosis surgery poses a risk of an iatrogenic reduction of the ovarian reserve [11].…”