Sexual Dysfunctions among Psychiatric Outpatients in Calabar.

Abstract

Background: Psychiatric patients are known to suffer from impairment in several areas of their general functioning. One major area affected is the area of sexual functioning, which could be as a result of their psychiatric illness or as a result of their psychotropic medication. Aims: To determine the prevalence and pattern of sexual dysfunctions among psychiatric outpatients and the relationship between sexual dysfunctions and demographic variables. Methods: A socio-demographic data questionnaire was administered on consecutive out patients of the Federal Psychiatric Hospital, Calabar. Male patients were also given the International Index of Erectile Function (IEEF) while female patients were given the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The same questionnaires were also administered on a healthy control group. Patients and controls were each 150 in number.
Results: Male Participants were 188 (62.7%) while female participants were 112 (37.3%). Patients had higher rates of sexual dysfunctions than  healthy respondents (Male patients = 16 – 48.9%, Male controls = 5.3 – 22.3%; Female Patients = 50 – 66.1%,  Female controls = 37.7 – 50%).
Significant differences were found only among the males. These were in the erectile, orgasmic and intercourse satisfactory domains. Marital Status,
level of education and employment status influenced the prevalence rates
among respondents. Conclusion: Psychiatric patients have higher rates of sexual dysfunction than the general population. Those at risk are single, less-educated and unemployed. Psychiatrists should routinely ask their patients about sexual dysfunctions.

Key words: Sexual Dysfunction, Prevalence, Psychiatric patients