Sexual dysfunctions in male schizophrenia patients

Ahmed A. Moustafa, Belinda Favaloro, Doaa H. Hewedi, Nagla N. El Mahallawy, Hossam ElKhatib

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterResearchpeer-review

Abstract

Background: Sexuality involves a complex interaction of biological, cultural, and developmental factors. Growing awareness of sexual dysfunctions in schizophrenia, as well as the adverse effects of psychotropic drugs (i.e., drugs affecting the mind and brain), have led to attempts to use different kinds of treatments to manage sexual dysfunction in these patients. The aim of this study is to investigate clinical factors underlying sexual dysfunction, especially highlighting clinical data in schizophrenia patients associated with sexual and erectile dysfunction, in order to improve clinical treatment. Methods: The male version of the Sexual Behavioral Questionnaire was applied to 214 schizophrenia patients. Of those patients, the Arabic version of the Marital Satisfaction Inventory and the International Index of Erectile Function was given to married patients, while their wives were given the Woman Abuse Scale. Results: 84.2% of the patients were dissatisfied with their sexual life. A negative correlation was found between sexual enjoyment and age. About 35% (n = 33) of the patients receiving mixed treatment and 40% (n = 21) of patients who are on typical antipsychotic treatment were dissatisfied with their sexual life (p = 0.002, 0.05). A nonsignificant difference in sexual satisfaction was found in patients on atypical antipsychotics. Significant differences are found regarding mild erectile dysfunction, sudden onset of erectile dysfunction, erectile dysfunction with their partner only, and the presence of morning erection (p = 0.05, 0.02, 0.04, and 0.05, respectively). Significant positive correlations were found between receiving mixed drugs with mild erectile dysfunction and sudden onset of erectile function (p = 0.005, r = 0.87 and p = 0.01, r = 0.081, respectively); these results were not found with atypical antipsychotics. Significant differences were found between patients with mild erectile dysfunction and their dissatisfaction with their financial issues (p = 0.04). Significant differences were also found between married patients receiving mixed treatment and their wives who experienced physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. Conclusions: Sexual dysfunction in schizophrenia should be carefully diagnosed and treated. This study shows significant correlations between sexual dysfunction and receiving typical antipsychotics and mixed medications. The use of atypical antipsychotics was associated with fewer sexual problems in male patients with schizophrenia.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCognitive and Behavioral Dysfunction in Schizophrenia
PublisherAcademic Press
Chapter7
Pages127-140
Number of pages14
ISBN (Electronic)9780128200056
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021
Externally publishedYes

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