Evaluation of sexual problems in asthmatic patients.

Abstract

Objective: This study evaluated sexual function in patients with asthma and its association with sociodemographic and clinical factors.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 380 individuals (aged 18-49) diagnosed with asthma for at least six months and was conducted at the pulmonology outpatient clinic of Samsun University Training and Research Hospital. Data were collected using a structured sociodemographic and sexual repertoire form and the Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS). Statistical analyses included Chi-square, Mann-Whitney's U, and independent samples t-tests, followed by multivariable linear regression to identify independent predictors of sexual dysfunction.

Results: A total of 380 individuals participated in the study, with an equal number of male and female participants. Females had significantly higher total GRISS scores than males (p = 0.001). Married individuals reported higher sexual satisfaction than singles (p = 0.004) in univariate analysis; however, marital status was not an independent factor in multivariable regression analysis. GRISS scores decreased with increasing education level (p = 0.008). Married participants reported a significant reduction in vaginal intercourse (p = 0.019). Additionally, participants who experienced fear of an asthma attack during intercourse had significantly higher scores than those who did not (p = 0.003).

Conclusions: Women, single individuals, and those with lower educational levels reported higher GRISS scores, indicating more sexual dysfunction. Similarly, high scores were observed among participants who experienced fear of an asthma attack during intercourse. These findings suggest that asthma appears to be associated with multidimensional impairments in sexual health.