Prevalence and predictors of sexual dysfunction in people with chronic pain

Abstract

The aims of this study were to: 1) examine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in a chronic pain sample; and 2) test a predictive model of sexual functioning. Participants were 269 individuals recruited online. Their mean age was approximately 37 years, and a majority were female, heterosexual, and currently in a relationship. High levels of pain severity, interference from pain, fatigue, depression, anxiety, stress, and body image concerns were reported along with low levels of self-esteem and pain self-efficacy. In addition, substantial proportions of male and female respondents had scores indicative of sexual dysfunction. Exploratory hierarchical regression analyses revealed that, for females, depression emerged as a statistically significant predictor of sexual functioning while perceived stress was a significant predictor of relationship satisfaction. For males, no statistically significant predictors of sexual functioning were observed; however, self-esteem predicted relationship satisfaction. Limitations of the current study and directions for future inquiry are detailed.