A study to assess sexual dysfunction in patients with major depressive disorder

Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with impairments of sexual function and satisfaction. A review of available literature suggests that sexual dysfunction is common in depressed patients. Aim and objectives: This study was undertaken to assess prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with MDD, to evaluate relationship of MDD with sexual dysfunction, and to evaluate type of sexual dysfunction in these patients. Methods: Hundred consecutive drug naive patients of MDD according to DSM-IV-TR, presenting to psychiatry OPD of general teaching hospital, were evaluated. Sexual dysfunction was assessed by using Arizona Sexual Experience Scale. Female Sexual Functioning Index and Brief Sexual Function Inventory were used to identify type of sexual dysfunction in females and males respectively. Clinical Global Impression scale was used to assess overall severity of the illness. Data thus obtained was pooled and analysed using appropriate statistical tests. Results and conclusion: 77.78% of male patients and 74.55% of female patients with MDD had sexual dysfunction. In male patients, 48.89% had low sexual drive, 40% patients each had ejaculatory problem and problem with sexual life, while 37.78% had erectile dysfunction. In female patients, 54.54% had low lubrication and 52.73% had low orgasm. 49.09% of the patients each had low sexual drive, low arousal, and sexual pain disorder. Poor overall satisfaction with the sexual life was seen in 35% of male patients and 40% of female patients. Hence, this study emphasises the need for awareness and importance of enquiring about sexual dysfunction in depressed patients.