engleski

Pelvic/genital pain in women with psychiatric disorders

Objective Pelvic/genital pain (PGP) is a debilitating condition in both men and women, but the prevalence is higher in women. We wanted to establish what is the prevalence of PGP in women with psychiatric disorders and what are sociodemographic and clinical correlates. Methods Women with psychiatric problems (N = 60, average age 47) treated in three day hospitals were questioned about their sexual functioning, including pain/discomfort during or after sexual activity. These women had a diagnosis of depression (48%), anxiety disorders (22%), and PTSD (22%). The pain was assessed by Female Sexual Functioning Index (questions 17-19), and sexual functioning by this questionnaire and with Sexual Functioning Scale. Depression and anxiety were assessed by Beck's Depression Inventory and Beck's Anxiety Inventory. Results . Only 38% of women from our sample have had any sexual activity in the last month. Of those 65% said they had pain or discomfort during or after sexual activity in half of the time or more. There was a correlation between age and pain (pain more often present in older women) and with lubrication (those with pain have more lubrication problems). Also, those who experience pain have more difficulties with getting excited and are less satisfied with their orgasms. Of psychological aspects, anxiety was correlated with pain (the more anxiety, the more pain). There was no correlation to depression. Only 17% of women who experience pain thought they need a professional help. Conclusion Majority of women with psychiatric disorders are not sexually active (62%). Among those sexually active, 65% experience pelvic/genital pain. Older women, more anxious women and women with lubrication problems experience pain more often. Only the minority of women who experience PGP think they need a professional help.

Pelvic/genital pain; depression; PTSD; anxiety disorders; pain; female sexuality

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