Are sexual activity and satisfaction affected by pelvic floor disorders? Analysis of a community-based survey.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between pelvic floor disorders and sexual activity and satisfaction. Information on pelvic floor disorders, sexual activity, and satisfaction as measured by 100-mm visual analog scale was obtained by questionnaire from 4106 women. Proportions of sexually active women were compared by the presence of each pelvic floor disorder with the use of chi-square tests. Satisfaction was compared with the use of t-tests. Logistic and linear regression analyses were used to assess the association between each pelvic floor disorder and sexual activity and satisfaction. Eighty-six percent of women with a partner (n = 1486) were sexually active. Women with pelvic floor disorders were less likely to be sexually active and to have lower mean satisfaction scores than unaffected women (P < .001). After regression analyses, pelvic floor disorders were not associated significantly with sexual activity or satisfaction. In community-dwelling women, sexual activity and satisfaction are independent of pelvic floor disorders.