Sexual dysfunction in female patients of reproductive age group with recurrent urinary tract infection—a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Sexually active female patients often present with urinary tract infection. Recurrent urinary tract infections negatively affect a patient's social and sexual life, leading to deterioration of overall life quality. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in recurrent urinary tract infection patients of reproductive age, and the association between recurrent urinary tract infections and sexual dysfunction. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 697 women of reproductive age with urinary tract infection attending a urology outdoor patient department in a tertiary-care center in eastern India were evaluated with a comprehensive history (including a validated questionnaire), physical examination, and relevant investigations. To assess sexual dysfunction and sexual distress profiles, the Female Sexual Function Index scale and the revised Female Sexual Distress Scale were used. RESULTS: Recurrent urinary tract infection was found in 143 of 697 (20.5%) patients. Women with recurrent urinary tract infection had a lower Female Sexual Function Index score (<26.55) and a higher Female Sexual Distress Scale score (>11), suggestive of sexual dysfunction, in 59.4% and 58.1% of cases, respectively (P<.001), whereas such scores were found among 22.6% and 19.1% of patients without recurrent urinary tract infection, respectively (P<.001). Relationship status and bowel history were independent predictors of Female Sexual Distress Scale score of >11. CONCLUSION: Nearly 60% of sexually active women of reproductive age with recurrent urinary tract infection had low Female Sexual Function Index and high Female Sexual Distress Scale scores, which are suggestive of sexual dysfunction. Thus, every patient with recurrent urinary tract infection should be evaluated for sexual dysfunction to improve quality of life.