Sexual problems in Tehran: Prevalence and associated factors

Sexual dysfunctions are considered as the most prevalent problems in the general population and their prevalence is so dispersed depending on different cultures and living conditions. This research investigates the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions and their relevant factors in Tehran.

In this cross-sectional questionnaire-based study, 1129 women and men referring to health centers in 22 Districts of Tehran were selected using quota, stratified and cluster sampling. Demographic questionnaire, female sexual function index (FSFI), and Brief Sexual Function Inventory (BSFI) were used to collecting data. DATA ANALYSIS: The data were analyzed using descriptive methods, and the findings were compared using the Chi-square, analysis of variance, and independent t-tests.

Totally 561 women and 568 men with the average ages of 33/06 and 34/98 participated in this study. In general, 77/6% of women and 35/6% of men complained about sexual problems. The most prevalent problems in women were sexual desire dysfunction (45/3%) and arousal dysfunction (38/85%), and the most prevalent problems in men were erection dysfunction (40/4%) and then ejaculation dysfunction (32/5%). Prevalence rates of dysfunctions of orgasm, dyspareunia, and vaginal dryness were, respectively, 9/2%, 9/0%, and 7/0%, and prevalence of sexual drive dysfunction in men was 10/6%.

The prevalence of sexual problems in Iranian women is so much higher than the global findings, and in men, this rate is somewhat higher than global prevalence. This difference can be due to the culture and the chosen silence about sexuality and specially women’s sexuality in the Iranian culture that requires extra attention to this area.