Psychological Factors Associated With Sexual Dysfunction in Men on Methadone Maintenance Treatment

Background: Methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is an evidence-based effective treatment for drug addiction. Psychological problems are common among drug users. However, a few studies have investigated the role of psychological factors, including depression, anxiety, and childhood trauma, on sexual dysfunction in MMT patients. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and the role of psychological factors, including anxiety, depression, and childhood trauma, on the sexual function of patients on MMT. Patients and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 100 MMT patients were selected by convenience sampling among patients referring to Baharan Psychiatric Hospital, Zahedan, Iran. All participants completed self-report questionnaires, including the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15). Statistical analysis was done with Pearson correlation coefficients, and stepwise linear regression models determined the predictors of sexual function. Results: Seventeen percent of participants reported various degrees of sexual dysfunction. Child sexual abuse and depression were significant predictors of sexual dysfunction. The regression analysis showed that 12% of the variance of sexual dysfunction (R2 = 0.12; F = 6.61; P < 0.002) was predicted by an experience of childhood sexual abuse and depression. Conclusions: People on MMT suffer from psychological problems as the risk factors for sexual dysfunction. Thus, mental health care staff should consider psychological factors to prevent and treat sexual dysfunction.