Evaluation of sexual dysfunction of women in menopause [Menopoz dönemindeki kadinlarin cinsel disfonksiyonlarinin degerlendirilmesi]

Objective: This study was done to determine sexual dysfunction and factors that may affect sexual dysfunction in menopausal women. Material and Methods: Research data was collected by using a "Questionnaire Form" of 13 questions about women's socio-demographic characteristics, medical anamnesis, gynecologic and obstetric characteristics; a "Sexual Function Index" to measure sexual functions. Research was carried out in the specified medical institute in Manisa, with 232 women who were between the age of 40 and 65; who haven't menstruated for at least one year, who have problems with their reproductive organs, who were at least primary school graduate and married and who agreed to participate in the research. Results: It was determined that women's average age was 52.66±4.22; 48.3% of women had become pregnant once or twice and that the average menarche age was 13.05±1.10 and the average menopause age was 46.85±3.75. Average score of Sexual Function Inquiry Index of women was set 24.82±10.82 and it determined that 74.6% of them took points under the cut-point (30 points). In Index sub-dimensions; Average score of Sexual Satisfaction subscale was set 7.85±3.01, average score of Sexual Relationships Incidence/Libido subscale was set 10.11±5.36, average score of Sexual Relationship Discomfort subscale was set 6.85±3.14. Conclusion: Almost all women suffer sexual dysfunction because of receiving the low score in Sexual Function Inquiry Index. In our country, Family Health Centers which are situated within primary health care services are used mostly by the women because of women and children-oriented service. Therefore, these units have an important role in women's sexual health assessment, women awareness rising by the health education programs. Copyright © 2012 by Türkiye Klinikleri.