exudates and Sexual-Dysfunction--Physiological

Currently, the reference standard used to clinically assess sexual function among women is a qualitative questionnaire. Hence, a generalised and quantitative measurement tool needs to be available as an alternative. This study investigated whether an electromyography (EMG) measurement technique could be used to help quantify women's sexual function.. A preliminary intervention study was conducted on 12 female subjects, who were randomised into a control (n=6) and an intervention (n=6) group. Intervention involved a set regimen of pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegel) and the control group did not have any treatment. All subjects were asked to answer a validated, self-rated Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Function Questionnaire (PISQ). EMG measurements of the pelvic floor muscles (PFM) and the abdominal muscles were taken from all women at recruitment and 8 weeks after study commencement.. After 8 weeks, most of the subjects in the control group did not display any noted positive difference in either PISQ score (4/6) or in their muscle strength (4/6). However, a noted progressive difference were observed in subjects who were placed in the Kegel group; PISQ score (5/6) and muscles strength (4/6).. The noted difference in the Kegel group subjects was that if progress is observed in the sexual function, improvement is also observed in the strength of at least 2 types of muscles (either abdominal or PFM muscles). Thus, EMG measurement is a potential technique to quantify the changes in female sexual function. Further work will be conducted to validate this assumption.

Topics: Abdominal Muscles; Adult; Electromyography; Exercise Therapy; Female; Humans; Malaysia; Pelvic Floor; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Surveys and Questionnaires

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a common problem among postpartum women. However, little is known about this topic in Malaysia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its associated factors in postpartum women in Kelantan, Malaysia. In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 452 sexually active women at six months postpartum from four primary care clinics in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia. The participants were asked to fill in questionnaires consisting of sociodemographic information and the Malay Version of the Female Sexual Function Index-6. The data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. With a 95% response rate, the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among sexually active, six months postpartum women was 52.4% (n = 225). FSD was significantly associated with the older husband's age (p = 0.034) and lower frequency of sexual intercourse (p<0.001). Therefore, the prevalence of postpartum sexual dysfunction in women is relatively high in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia. Efforts should be made to raise awareness among healthcare providers about screening for FSD in postpartum women and for their counseling and early treatment.

Topics: Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Humans; Malaysia; Postpartum Period; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Surveys and Questionnaires

Sexual dysfunction is a major issue among gynaecological cancer survivors. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among survivors of gynaecological cancer in Malaysia and to determine its risk factors.. A cross-sectional study was conducted of 116 married women with gynaecological cancer who attended the gynaeoncology and oncology clinics at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC). Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Sexual dysfunction was measured using the Malay Version Female Sexual Function Index (MVFSFI). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to determine the risk factors of female sexual dysfunction.. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction among gynaecological cancer survivors was 60% (70 out of 116). Sexual dissatisfaction was the most prevalent domain of sexual dysfunction at 68.1%. Sexual dysfunction was significantly associated with low education levels (Primary level, AOR = 4.92, 95% CI: 1.12-21.63; secondary level, AOR = 4.06, 95% CI: 1.14-14.44). Non-Malays were significantly more likely to have sexual dysfunction compared with Malays (AOR = 3.57, 95% CI: 1.16-11.06). In terms of treatment, combinations of surgery and radiotherapy (AOR = 4.66, 95% CI: 1.01-21.47) as well as surgery and chemoradiation (AOR = 5.77, 95% CI: 1.20-27.85) were considered.. Gynaecological cancer survivors with lower education levels, non-Malay ethnicity, and receiving treatment combinations of surgery and radiotherapy or surgery and chemoradiation have a higher risk of sexual dysfunction. A holistic approach in managing the various sociocultural and clinical issues is required to prevent sexual dysfunction among these patients.

Topics: Cancer Survivors; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Genital Neoplasms, Female; Humans; Malaysia; Prevalence; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological

Management of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is vital for women with breast cancer due to the devastating consequences, which include marital disharmony and reduced quality of life. We explore healthcare providers' (HCPs) perceptions and experiences in managing FSD for women living with breast cancer using a phenomenological approach.. This qualitative study was conducted using a face-to-face interview method with HCPs from two tertiary hospitals in North East Malaysia. The interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and transferred to NVivo ® for data management. The transcriptions were analyzed using thematic analysis.. Three key barriers were identified through the thematic analysis: a scarcity of related knowledge; the influence of socio-cultural ideas about sex; and the specialty-centric nature of the healthcare system. Most HCPs interviewed had a very narrow understanding of sexuality, were unfamiliar with the meaning of FSD, and felt their training on sexual health issues to be very limited. They viewed talking about sex to be embarrassing to both parties that are both to HCPs and patients and was therefore not a priority. They focused more on their specialty hence limited the time to discuss sexual health and FSD with their patients.. Therefore, interventions to empower the knowledge, break the socio-cultural barriers, and improve the clinic settings are crucial for HCPs in managing FSD confidently.

Topics: Breast Neoplasms; Female; Health Personnel; Humans; Malaysia; Qualitative Research; Quality of Life; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological

In Malaysia, female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among Malays is common, so understanding the meanings of sexuality becomes crucial, as they can vary with identity, and this may influence each woman's subsequent reaction to sexual experience. In this article, we explore the meanings of sexuality that Malay women had developed throughout their lived experience. This qualitative study, situated within a social cognitive theory and a phenomenological framework, was conducted through in-depth and photograph elicitation interviews with 26 Malay women who had self-reported experiencing FSD. The findings suggest that the meanings of sexuality for these women linked closely with fundamental factors of Malay identity, which is comprised of tradition (Adat), religion (Islam), and language, that all influence gendered roles. Malay women understood sexuality to be sexual intimacy within marriage, privileging their marital role as a "good wife" over their personal rights within a sexual relationship. This understanding of sexuality was reinforced by meanings attributed to procreation, which Malay women linked closely to the purpose of marriage and their role as a "good mother." The findings should provide useful evidence that could be used in sexual health promotions to help reduce FSD and in clinical practice to generate appropriate therapy in Malaysia and elsewhere.

Topics: Adult; Female; Humans; Language; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexuality

Recognizing barriers to managing sexual issues makes it more likely that effective ways to overcome them will be found. In Malaysia, where discussion of sexual issues is taboo, sociocultural factors may influence how physicians manage patients with these types of problems. This article focuses on the challenges encountered by 21 Malay family physicians when women experiencing sexual problems and female sexual dysfunction (FSD) attended their clinics, an uncommon occurrence in Malaysia, despite their high prevalence. This qualitative study employed a phenomenological framework and conducted face-to-face in-depth interviews. Three main barriers to managing women with sexual problems were identified that can hinder assessment and treatment: insufficient knowledge and training; unfavorable clinic environments; and personal embarrassment. Some barriers were associated with physician characteristics but many were systemic. These were further evaluated using social cognitive theory. Professional attitudes appear important as those physicians with an interest in managing women's health seemed to make greater effort to explore issues further and work to gain trust. Physicians who appeared indifferent to the impact of FSD showed greater reluctance to find solutions. Systemic issues included unfavorable clinical settings, lack of training, and lack of local evidence. Any strategy to address FSD needs to be underpinned by appropriate policies and resources.

Topics: Adult; Female; Humans; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Physicians, Family; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Women's Health

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among the obese women is often under diagnosed and ignored especially in Malaysia, a nation of conservative multiethnic society. There are only a few studies on FSD resolution post-bariatric surgery. The objective was to identify the rate and resolution or improvement of FSD, among obese multiethnic Malaysian women post-bariatric surgery.. This is a prospective study of women undergoing bariatric surgery, between May 2017 and April 2018. FSD was diagnosed using the Malay version of Female Sexual Function Index (MVFSFI) questionnaire. Patients filled up the questionnaire before and 6 months after surgery. Association between BMI reduction and FSFI score improvement was measured using Fisher's exact test. Outcomes between types of surgery (sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass) was compared.. Fifty-two women completed the study. The mean age was 38.77 ± 6.7. There were 44 (84.6%) Malay patients, 7 (13.5%) Indian patients, and 1 (1.9%) Chinese patient. There was a significant reduction in mean BMI, 39.89 ± 6.9 pre-surgery to 30.32 ± 5.4 post-surgery (p value < 0.001). The rate of FSD among the obese is 75.0% pre-surgery compared to 36.0% post-surgery. There was a significant improvement in mean FSFI score pre- and post-surgery: 18.73 and 25.93 respectively and in each of all 6 domains (p value < 0.001). There was a significant association between BMI reduction and improvement in FSFI score (p = 0.019). There was no difference in outcomes between types of surgery.. FSD is highly prevalent among the obese multiethnic Malaysian women. Bariatric surgery has proven benefit in resolving FSD across all sexual domains and should be considered as a management option in this group of women.

Topics: Adult; Bariatric Surgery; Comorbidity; Female; Humans; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Obesity, Morbid; Pilot Projects; Prospective Studies; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Surveys and Questionnaires

The aim of this study is to construct a new tool for the assessment of sexual dysfunction among men with diabetes that is valid and reliable across different ethnicities, languages and socio-economic backgrounds in South East Asia.. Focus group interviews were conducted to determine the construct of the questionnaire. Content and face validity were assessed by a panel of experts. A pilot study was conducted to validate the Sexual Dysfunction in Asian Men with Diabetes (SAD-MEN) questionnaire in English and Malay. The International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) was used for comparison. Construct validity was assessed using exploratory factor analysis, reliability was determined using Cronbach's α (> 0.700), and test-retest reliability using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.. The SAD-MEN questionnaire yielded moderate face and content validity, with high reliability as shown by Cronbach's α values of 0.949 for sexual performance and 0.775 for sexual desire for the English version. The Malay language questionnaire had a Cronbach's α value of 0.945 for sexual performance and 0.750 for sexual desire. Test-retest reliability using Spearman's test gave correlation coefficients of r = 0.853, P = 0.000 for the English language questionnaire and r = 0.908, P = 0.000 for the Malay language questionnaire.. The SAD-MEN questionnaire is a valid and reliable tool by which to assess sexual dysfunction in English- and Malay-speaking Malaysian and South East Asian men with diabetes.

Topics: Adult; Aged; China; Cohort Studies; Culturally Competent Care; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Focus Groups; Humans; India; Malaysia; Male; Middle Aged; Pilot Projects; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Reproducibility of Results; Self Report; Severity of Illness Index; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Socioeconomic Factors

Sociocultural factors have been shown to be important influencers of sexual health and sexuality. Hence, the aim of our study was to explore the views and experiences of family medicine trainees regarding female sexual dysfunction (FSD) with a focus on the barriers and facilitators towards the initiation of conversation on this topic. A qualitative study design involving semi-structured focus group discussions (FGDs) was conducted with 19 family medicine trainees in Malaysia. The conceptual framework used was based on the Theory of Planned Behavior. Thematic approach was used to analyze the data. Participants perceived FSD as being uncommon and unimportant. According to our participants, patients often presented with indirect complaints, and doctors were not proactive in asking about FSD. Three main barriers were identified: doctor factors, perceived patient factors, and system factors. Lack of confidence, knowledge, experience, time, and embarrassment were the key barriers identified at the doctors' level. Lack of awareness, among patients regarding FSD, and local cultural and religious norms were the perceived patient barriers. System barriers were lack of time and privacy. Various facilitators, such as continuous medical education and public forums, were suggested as means to encourage family medicine trainees to initiate discussion on sexual matters during consultations. In conclusion, family medicine trainees found it difficult to initiate conversation on FSD with patients. Interventions to encourage conversation on FSD should target this and other identified barriers.

Topics: Adult; Asian People; Attitude of Health Personnel; Culture; Female; Health Personnel; Humans; Malaysia; Reproductive Health; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Sexuality

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a combination of chronic anovulation, obesity, and hyperandrogenism and can affect sexual function in women of reproductive age. It is also associated with endometrial cancer. Our aim was to evaluate the frequency and predisposing factors of sexual dysfunction in PCOS patients.. In this cross-sectional study, 16 married women with a definite diagnosis of PCOS were recruited. Sexual function was assessed in the domains of desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain using the female sexual function index (FSFI) questionnaire. Patients were also assessed for mental health using the depression, anxiety and stress (DASS-21) questionnaire. Presence of hirsutism was assessed using the Ferriman-Gallwey (FG) scoring system. Demographic data were obtained from patients during in-person interview.. Sexual dysfunction was present in 62.5% of patients with the domains of arousal and lubrication particularly affected (93.8% and 87.5%, respectively). Patients with symptoms of depression and anxiety were significantly more likely to suffer sexual dysfunction than those without these symptoms (p=0.04 and p=0.03 respectively). Patients with stress symptoms reported higher orgasm dysfunction than those without (p=0.02). No significant difference in any of the FSFI score domains was observed between patients with and without hirsutism.. PCOS patients markedly suffer from sexual dysfunction and therefore it seems appropriate to be screened for intervention. Poor mental health conditions that may be the result of infertility or other complications of PCOS should also be considered as curable causes of sexual dysfunction in these patients.

Topics: Adult; Anxiety; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depression; Female; Hirsutism; Humans; Libido; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Personal Satisfaction; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Surveys and Questionnaires

To determine the prevalence and risk factors of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among healthcare personnel in selected healthcare facilities in Malaysia.. This was a cross-sectional study carried out at three large healthcare facilities that were selected by convenience sampling. Within each facility, stratified random sampling was used to select suitable candidates to participate in the study (n=201). Validated questionnaires were used to assess depression, anxiety, sexual function in women and erectile dysfunction (ED) in their partners.. The prevalence of FSD was 5.5%. Women with sexual dysfunction were more likely to be married longer (OR=4.08; 95% CI; 1.15-4.50), had lower frequency of sexual intercourse (OR=5.00; 95% C; 1.05-23.76) and had a spouse with ED (OR=24.35; 95% CI; 4.55-130.37). Multivariate analysis showed that ED was the strongest predictor for FSD (AOR=27.30; 95% CI; 4.706-159.08).. One in eighteen female healthcare personnel suffered from FSD and presence of ED in the partner strongly impacted her sexual function, negatively. The findings highlight the importance of including the male partner in clinical assessment of FSD.

Topics: Adult; Cross-Sectional Studies; Erectile Dysfunction; Female; Health Personnel; Humans; Malaysia; Male; Middle Aged; Prevalence; Random Allocation; Risk Factors; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Surveys and Questionnaires; Young Adult

The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of orgasmic dysfunction among Malay women with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Malaysia.. This cross-sectional study involved 347 women (174 non diabetic and 173 diabetic subjects) who attended the diabetic clinic in a university hospital. Orgasmic dysfunction was assessed using the orgasmic subscale of Malay Version of the Female Sexual Function Index (MVFSFI). Sociodemographic information of the subjects was collected with a pre-designed questionnaire.. Prevalence of orgasmic dysfunction among Malay women was 13.3% and 10.3% in type 2 diabetes mellitus and control group, respectively. However, the difference was not statistically significant. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that unemployment (Adjusted Odds Ratio, AOR=2.69, 95% CI=1.22, 5.97) and lower academic status (AOR=0.35, 95% CI=0.17, 0.72) were significantly associated with sexual orgasmic dysfunction in diabetic women.. Orgasmic dysfunction was highly prevalent among the Malay women regardless of the diabetic state. It is recommended that orgasmic dysfunction in women with diabetes should be assessed during routine clinical health visit to the hospital for early treatment.

Topics: Adult; Comorbidity; Cross-Sectional Studies; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Female; Humans; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Orgasm; Prevalence; Random Allocation; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Socioeconomic Factors; Unemployment

To determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction (FSD) among women with rheumatoid arthritis attending the Rheumatology Clinic in Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC) and Hospital Putrajaya, Malaysia, and to determine its associations with potential clinical and disease activity factors.. This was a cross-sectional study involving women with rheumatoid arthritis between the ages of 20 and 60 years. A validated Malay Version Female Sexual Function Index (MVFSFI) was administered to diagnose FSD. Sociodemographic and disease activity profiles were obtained and those who had and did not have FSD were compared.. Among 63 respondents, 51 patients were included in the analysis for FSD. The prevalence of FSD in women with rheumatoid arthritis attending UKMMC and Hospital Putrajaya Rheumatology Clinic was 29.4%. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28-ESR) correlates with MVFSFI score with r=-0.364 (P=0.009) and r=-0.268 (P=0.057), respectively. Sociodemographic factors that correlate with MVFSFI score were: patient's age (r=0.520, P<0.001); duration of marriage (r=-0.355, P=0.001); husband's age (r=-0.460, P=0.001); age of oldest child (r=-0.449, P=0.001); and age of youngest child (r=-0.627, P<0.001).. We found in this study that the prevalence of FSD in rheumatoid arthritis in our centers was 29.4%. Age and family dynamics appear to be more important predictors compared to disease activity.

Topics: Adult; Aging; Arthritis, Rheumatoid; Cross-Sectional Studies; Culture; Disability Evaluation; Family Relations; Female; Humans; Logistic Models; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Prevalence; Quality of Life; Severity of Illness Index; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological

This study is a cross-sectional, face-to-face interview.. To examine the sexual activity in a sample of Malaysian women with traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCIs), identify the physical and psychological barriers to it, and explore their experiences with sexual counseling and rehabilitation.. This study was conducted at the Spinal Rehabilitation Unit of a teaching hospital.. All women who attended scheduled check-ups, over 1 year, and who met the inclusion criteria (age above 18 years, spinal injury of traumatic aetiology, living in the community and having completed the rehabilitation) were consecutively included in a face-to-face interview using a self-constructed questionnaire. Sociodemographic and disability-related variables, barriers to sexual activity/satisfaction and experiences of sexual rehabilitation services were obtained.. During the study period, 33/36 subjects were recruited. Although 67% indicated interest in sexual activity, only 24% was sexually active. The frequency of sexual activity declined after the injury, from 4.6 times per month to 1.5 times per month. Feeling unattractive, unable to satisfy the partner and less confident about sexual ability were top three psychological barriers to sexual activity, and the top three physical barriers were impaired genital sensation, positioning and vaginal lubrication. In all, 50% received some sexual information during rehabilitation. Rehabilitation professionals were expected to initiate sexual counseling by 62.5% of subjects.. The effect of SCIs on sexual function is tremendous. Sexual counseling services must be improved and take into account the impact of psychological factors.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Comorbidity; Female; Humans; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Patient Education as Topic; Sex Counseling; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Spinal Cord Injuries; Surveys and Questionnaires; Young Adult

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a highly prevalent sexual health problem but poorly investigated at the primary care level.. This article examines the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its possible risk factors associated with women at high risk of FSD in a hospital-based primary practice.. A validated Malay version of the Female Sexual Function Index (MVFSFI) was utilized to determine FSD in a cross-sectional study design, involving 163 married women, aged 18-65 years, in a tertiary hospital-based primary care clinic in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Sociodemographic, marital profile, health, and lifestyle for women at high risk of FSD and those who were not at high risk were compared and their risk factors were determined.. Prevalence of FSD in Malaysian women based on the MVFSFI, and its risk factors for developing FSD.. Some 42 (25.8%) out of 163 women had sexual dysfunction. Prevalence of sexual dysfunction increased significantly with age. Sexual dysfunctions were detected as desire problem (39.3%), arousal problem (25.8%), lubrication problem (21.5%), orgasm problem (16.6%), satisfaction problem (21.5%) and pain problems (16.6%). Women at high risk of FSD were significantly associated with age (OR 4.1, 95% CI 1.9 to 9.0), husband's age (OR 4.3 95% C.I 1.9 to 9.3), duration of marriage (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.6 to 6.8), medical problems (OR 8.5, 95% CI 3.3 to 21.7), menopausal status (OR 6.6, 95% CI 3.1 to 14.3), and frequency of sexual intercourse (OR 10.7, 95% CI 3.6 to 31.7). Multivariate analysis showed that medical problem (adjusted OR 4.6, 95% CI 1.6 to 14.0) and frequency of sexual intercourse (adjusted OR 7.2, 95% CI 2.1 to 24.0) were associated with increased risk of having FSD. Those who practiced contraception were less likely to have FSD.. Sexual health problems are prevalent in women attending primary care clinic where one in four women were at high risk of FSD. Thus, primary care physician should be trained and prepared to address this issue.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Contraception Behavior; Cross-Sectional Studies; Female; Health Status; Humans; Malaysia; Marriage; Menopause; Middle Aged; Prevalence; Primary Health Care; Risk Factors; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Spouses; Surveys and Questionnaires; Time Factors; Young Adult

To document the common menopausal symptoms and quality of life in indigenous women of Sarawak in Malaysia.. A face-to-face interview using the Menopause-specific Quality of Life questionnaire was conducted with 276 indigenous Sarawakian women aged 40-65 years to determine the mean age of menopause and common symptoms (divided into vasomotor, psychosocial, physical and sexual domains) associated with menopause.. The mean age at menopause of postmenopausal women was 50.78 +/- 2.47 years (range 47.3-58.2 years). The most common symptoms reported were aching in muscles and joints (82.6%), lack of energy (77.5%) and low backache (77.2%). The typical menopausal symptoms of hot flushes, night sweats, sweating and vaginal dryness were experienced by 42.4%, 34.8%, 29.7% and 49.3%, respectively of the women studied. Perimenopausal women (n = 114) experienced the most physical and psychosocial symptoms, while postmenopausal women (n = 102) experienced most sexual symptoms. Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women were reported to suffer more than premenopausal women (p < 0.001) within the four domains of symptoms (vasomotor, psychosocial, physical and sexual).. The menopausal symptoms in this study correspond to those in other studies on Asian women but the prevalence of typical and classical menopausal symptoms was lower compared to studies on Caucasian women. The perimenopausal women had the most significant decrease in quality of life, followed by postmenopausal women and premenopausal women. Vasomotor symptoms had a predominant influence on the quality of life.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Arthralgia; Cross-Sectional Studies; Educational Status; Fatigue; Female; Hot Flashes; Humans; Low Back Pain; Malaysia; Menopause; Middle Aged; Postmenopause; Quality of Life; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Surveys and Questionnaires; Sweating

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a prevalent sexual health problem that does not spare the women in Malaysia, a nation with a conservative multiethnic society.. To investigate the prevalence of FSD and the potential risk factors that may impair sexual function among women at a primary care setting in Malaysia.. The prevalence, the risk factors, and the main predictors for FSD were measured among these women.. A validated Malay version of the Female Sexual Function Index was used to assess FSD. A total of 230 married women aged 18-70 years participated in this study. The sociodemographic and marital profiles of women who had FSD and those who did not were compared; the risk factors for FSD were determined.. The majority of the respondents were younger than 50 years old, predominantly Malays, and had a higher academic achievement. The prevalence of FSD in the primary care population was 29.6%. The prevalence of women with lack of orgasms, low sexual arousal, lack of lubrication, sexual dissatisfaction, and sexual pain were 59.1%, 60.9%, 50.4%, 52.2%, and 67.8%, respectively.. The risk factors for FSD are older age, Malays, married longer (more than 14 years), having less sexual intercourse (less than 1-2 times a week), having more children, married to an older husband (aged >42 years), and having a higher academic status. Lack of lubrication is found to be the main predictor for FSD in this study. Is lack of lubrication a cause or a complication of FSD? Prospective research is needed in the near future.

Topics: Adult; Affect; Age Distribution; Aged; Comorbidity; Dyspareunia; Female; Humans; Libido; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Orgasm; Prevalence; Risk Factors; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Socioeconomic Factors; Women's Health; Women's Health Services

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a prevalent sexual health problem that has been inadequately investigated in Malaysia, a nation with a conservative multiethnic society.. To validate the Malay version of the Female Sexual Function Index (MVFSFI) for the study of FSD.. To measure the validity and reliability of the MVFSFI and its domains.. Validation was carried out on aspects of face, content, discriminant, and criterion (concurrent) validity. Reliability studies on test-retest and on internal consistency were conducted with Cronbach's alpha and Pearson correlation, respectively. The values with the highest sensitivity and specificity generated from the receiver operating characteristic curves were taken as the cutoff scores to differentiate cases and noncases.. A total of 230 married women aged 18-70 years participated in this study. There was a high test-retest correlation by respondents (r at least >0.7). The MVFSFI was found to have good discriminant validity as a whole and for each domain. A total score of 55 was taken as the cutoff point for the MVFSFI to distinguish between women with sexual dysfunction and those without (sensitivity = 99%, specificity = 97%). Scores lower than 55 indicate sexual dysfunction. The cutoff score for each domain was also established for the MVFSFI:

Topics: Adult; Aged; Analysis of Variance; Female; Humans; Libido; Malaysia; Middle Aged; Psychometrics; Reproducibility of Results; Sensitivity and Specificity; Severity of Illness Index; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological; Surveys and Questionnaires; Women's Health

Topics: Humans; Malaysia; Prevalence; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological

Topics: Acculturation; Attitude; Birth Order; Cannabis; Ethnicity; Female; Humans; Income; Language; Malaysia; Male; Mental Disorders; Neurotic Disorders; Personality Disorders; Residence Characteristics; Schizophrenia; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Social Adjustment; Social Change; Social Class; Students; Substance-Related Disorders

246 men, aged 21-59, living on rubber estates on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, were interviewed 1-4 years after vasectomy in a study conducted by the International Institute for the Study of Human Reproduction of Columbia University and the National Family Planning Board of Malaysia. Most of the men were of Indian origin; 223 were Hindus. The incidence and nature of psychological and medical complications were investigated, but this article treats only the psychological effects. The basic interviews consisted of verbal questionnaires; care was taken to avoid drawing attention to the researchers' interest in psychosexual effects. Men claiming regrets, fears, ill effects, and problems in married life after the operation were 9%, 11%, 54%, and 4%, respectively, of the total population. 11.8% of the men claimed to have a loss of libido. The percentages of men expressing regrets and fears decreased with increasing age, parity, and pregnancies of wife; age here is probably the overriding variable. When the vasectomy decision was joint, rather than the individual decision of either husband or wife, regrets and fears were significantly less (p.05 for both regrets and fears). No couple in the sample was without at least 1 living son, this suggesting that men without heirs will refrain from vasectomy in Malaysia. Higher proportions of men who had lost children reported anxiety. Men reporting psychosexual complications were reinterviewed in depth. In these depth interviews a variety of fantasies associated with the operation was revealed.

Topics: Adult; Anxiety; Attitude; Female; Humans; Libido; Malaysia; Male; Marriage; Middle Aged; Postoperative Complications; Pregnancy; Sexual Behavior; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Vasectomy