Sexual Dysfunction in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction occurs in any phase of sexual performance or any period of the sexual response cycle, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects self-image with repercussions on sexuality.

Aim

To evaluate sexual dysfunction in women with PCOS.

Methods

A systematic review was undertaken following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis. The primary databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Lilacs were accessed using specific terms. There was no constraint against year of publication. The meta-analysis was conducted with RevMan program version 5.3.

Main Outcome Measure

We evaluated the relationship between sexual dysfunction and PCOS.

Results

The systematic review encompassed 19 studies. The analysis indicated that 11 specific and 6 general instruments were used to measure the sexual function in PCOS women. Of these, the Female Sexual Function Index scale was used most frequently. All studies assessed different aspects of sexual performance in PCOS women, and no difference was found in between women with PCOS and control subjects.

Clinical Implications

Although there were disparities regarding ethnicity, culture, religion, and economy among studies, the available evidence failed to prove a significant link between PCOS and sexual dysfunction.

Strength & Limitations

This systematic review addressed a multidimensional theme with many variables and with a wide diversity of measurement tools. Studies were small, and populations were not homogeneous.

Conclusion

Despite potential risk of bias, such as inhomogeneity of study population, sexual function of both PCOS patients and women with regular menstrual cycles might, in general, be similar.Firmino Murgel AC, Santos Simões R, Maciel GAR, et al. Sexual Dysfunction in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sex Med 2019;16:542–550.