Correlation between Sexual Dysfunction and Marital Dissatisfaction among Diabetics

The prevalence of sexual dysfunction and marital dyssatisfaction is reported to be higher among diabetics than in the general population. Correlation between marital satisfaction and sexual dysfunction in these patients is controversial. This study assesses the correlation between marital satisfaction and sexual dysfunction in diabetic subjects. In this cross-sectional study, 100 diabetics from a diabetes clinic in Shahrekord were selected. Presence of decreased libido and arousal sexual dysfunction were assessed in subjects, using the Laumann et al questionnaire. Golombok Rust Iinventory of Marital Satisfaction (GRIMS) was used to measure marital satisfaction. The mean score of the marital satisfaction was compared in subjects with and without each type of sexual dysfunction. Decreased libido and arousal sexual dysfunction was seen in 76 (76%) and 32 (32%) subjects, respectively. Marital satisfaction was lower in those diabetics with decreased libido or arousal sexual dysfunction(p>0.05). According to this study, marital satisfaction is expected to be worse in diabetics with sexual dysfunction. It is therefore recommended that more attention be paid to diabetics with sexual dysfunction.