Female sexual dysfunction due to diabetes mellitus: study among Muslim women in Malaysia

Abstract

Sexual dysfunction is a known complication of diabetes mellitus in both men and women. The aims of this study: 1. to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction 2. to identify the types of sexual dysfunction experienced by Muslim women with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malaysia.

Methods: This sequential mix-method study was conducted on married Muslim women with type 2 diabetes mellitus, who received treatment from three community clinics in Selangor, Malaysia. Female sexual function was assessed using Malay version of Female Sexual Function Index. Later, a few women were selected and interviewed using semi structured questions to obtain their opinion regarding their sexual function.

Results: Eighty-one women participated in this study which found that sexual dysfunction was present among 27.2% women. Sexual dissatisfaction was the commonest symptom among these women and was observed in 48.1% of women followed by poor libido (45.7%). Sexual arousal disorder was observed in 25.9%, 23.5% complained of lack of lubrication, and 21.0% had vaginal discomfort. Orgasmic dysfunction was found in only 12.3% of these women. Semi structured interview revealed that women seek religious guidance, reading materials in magazines and traditional medicine to cope with sexual problems. All women expressed the importance of sexual health as they consider it as a religious obligation.

Conclusion: Sexual problems are frequently experience by Muslim women with diabetes mellitus. Further investigation is necessary to determine the associated factors including sociocultural and religious influences.