Assessment of Sexual Dysfunction in Female Fibromyalgia Patients According to Golombok-Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale.

Abstract

Introduction: Fibromyalgia is a prevalent rheumatologic condition affecting adults. It is observed in ∼2.7% of the whole population. Sexual health is a complex and multifaceted condition that, like general health, cannot be explained solely by the absence of negative aspects. Considering the complex nature of sexual health, fibromyalgia patients are at higher risk of sexual dysfunction.

Materials and methods: The study included female patients aged 25-60 who had been married for at least two years. Participants were divided into two groups: the case group, which consisted of patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia and receiving treatment at the physical therapy outpatient clinic, and the control group, which included women attending the urology outpatient clinic for reasons unrelated to fibromyalgia or any other comorbid conditions.

Findings: A total of 140 female patients participated in the study, with 75 diagnosed with fibromyalgia and 65 without fibromyalgia. When comparing the GRISS total and subscale scores between the two groups, the fibromyalgia group had significantly higher scores across all subscales, including anorgasmia, vaginismus, non-communication, infrequency, avoidance, non-sensuality and dissatisfaction (p < 0.001 for all).

Conclusion: Sexual dysfunction is significantly more prevalent in patients with fibromyalgia compared to those in the control group.