Evaluation of confounding factors interfering with sexual function in women with minimal pelvic organ prolapse

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the effects of confounding factors on sexual function in women with minimal pelvic organ prolapse (POP). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at a cervical cancer screening center in Turkey between December 1, 2012, and March 31, 2013. Symptom-free women with stage I or II POP were enrolled to evaluate the association between sexual function and sociodemographic variables, POP, POP-related quality of life, stress incontinence, and overactive bladder. Results Of 243 volunteers (mean age 46.0 ± 9.1 years), 188 (77.4%) had a low Female Sexual Function Index score. Women with better sexual function tended to be younger, have a higher salary, not be in the menopause, and have no chronic illness (P < 0.05 for all). There was no difference between the groups in terms of POP Quantification measurements (P > 0.05), apart from transvaginal length (P = 0.011). Overactive bladder was more common (P = 0.005) and more severe (P = 0.002) in women with sexual dysfunction, and their POP-related quality of life was worse (P < 0.05). In a linear regression analysis, high salary had a positive effect and overactive bladder had a negative effect on sexual function. Conclusion Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in women with minimal POP. Overactive bladder and low income are the major factors adversely affecting sexual function.