Prevalence and Factors Associated With Postpartum Female Sexual Dysfunction in Muyinga Province, Burundi

Abstract

Background: The female sexual dysfunction is a major problem that affects women at 30-78%.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with postpartum sexual dysfunction among women in Muyinga province, Burundi.

Methods: The study was cross-sectional among women aged between 18 – 49 years, who are in 3-12 months of postpartum. A multistage random sampling technic was used to select 415 women attending primary health center with a questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, obstetric conditions, postpartum period, and sexual function. Sexual function was assessed using Female Sexual Function Index. Data was entered into Statistical Package for Social Scientists version 22 for analysis with statistical significance set at 5%. Chi-square test for analyzing factors associated to sexual dysfunction. Logistic regression was used to analyze predictive factors of sexual dysfunction. Female dysfunction was identified with a FSFI score ≤26.55.

Results:  The mean age was 27 (SD±6.53) years. 274 (66%) reported sexual dysfunction with a total score of Female Sexual Function index 25.11±3.90. Sexual dysfunction was identified as sexual desire 90.6%, sexual arousal at 62.9%, lubrication at 29.2%, orgasm at 49.9%. Factors associated with sexual dysfunction (p<0.05) were type of contraceptive methods, residence, delivery place. Predictive factors were age of respondent (aOR: 0.3 (95% CI: 0.10-0.89); P = 0.030), residence (aOR: 3.4 (95% CI: 2.13-5.54); P= 0.000), sexual resumption time (aOR: 1.8 (95% CI: 1.12-2.99); P=0.015), postpartum period (aOR: 0.59 (95% CI: 0.37-0.94); P=0.029), DMPA use (aOR: 0.45 (95% CI: 0.27- 0.75); P=0.002).

Conclusion: FSD is very noticeable in the postpartum period. Hence an open discussion is benefic between partners and healthcare professional should also offer guidance in addition suggesting various therapy alternative.

Key words: postpartum, sexual dysfunction, female sexual function index, Muyinga, Burundi