High prevalence of male sexual dysfunction in a prospective multicenter VA inflammatory bowel disease population

Abstract

Background: Aims of this study were to assess the prevalence of and risk factors for sexual dysfunction (SD) in male veterans with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Methods: We collected IBD history, quality of life (QOL), and sexual function surveys. Results: One hundred seventy-one men enrolled, mean age 50 years, 85% had SD, 92% had erectile dysfunction (ED). More severe ED (P = 0.0001), decreased sexual desire (P = 0.004), and decreased satisfaction (P = 0.001) were associated with poorer QOL. Biologic use was associated with increased SD; hypertension with a decrease in sexual desire. Conclusions: SD and ED are highly prevalent and associated with poorer QOL. Lay Summary Sexual health has not been well defined in male patients with inflammatory bowel disease. In this multicenter study, 85% had sexual dysfunction with increased odds in those with hypertension and biologic use. Sexual dysfunction correlated with decreased quality of life.