Vol 86, No 2 (2015)
ARTICLES
Sexuality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
DOI: 10.17772/gp/1995
Ginekol Pol 2015;86(2).
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to compare sexual function and sexual response, attitude toward sexuality, and relationships with sexual partners in women diagnosed with PCOS and healthy controls.
Material and methods: The study included 73 women (aged 23–42 years) diagnosed with PCOS using the Rotterdam criteria and 45 healthy controls. All participants completed a questionnaire assessing socioepidemiological parameters and sexual behavior. Validated instruments were used to assess hirsutism (Ferriman-Gallwey Scale), mental health status (General Health Questionnaire 12 [GHQ 12]), sexuality (Sexuality Scale [SS], Sexual Awareness
Questionnaire [SAQ], Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire [MSQ], Multidimensional Sexual Self-Concept Questionnaire [MSSCQ]), and sexual function (Polish version of the Mell-Krat Scale [SFK/K Scale]). Results: There were no statistically significant differences in the importance of sexual activity in both groups. Mean scores for the SFK/K Scale, SS, SAQ, MSQ, and MSSQ were similar among women with PCOS and controls, regardless of age. Similarly, sexual needs and reactions were perceived in the same way by both groups. In contrast,
women with PCOS rated themselves negatively as sexual partners more frequently than controls.
Conclusions: Sexual function and sexual response, attitude toward sexuality, as well as relationships with sexual partners were similar in PCOS subjects and healthy women. However, changes in physical appearance typically associated with PCOS result in deterioration of sexual function. Therefore, it is recommended that all PCOS patients
should be referred to a sexual medicine specialist for consultation.
Keywords: polycystic ovary syndrome / sexuality / sexual function / sexual reactions / attitudes
