Factors associated with sexual dysfunctions in Nairobi, Kenya.

Abstract

Background: Sexual dysfunctions are associated with comorbidities, which can be the cause or the
result of the dysfunctions. Little research has been done to document comorbidities in Kenya. This study
documented comorbidities associated with sexual dysfunctions in patients treated at the Sexology Clinic
in Nairobi.
Objective: To provide health service providers with evidence on what to investigate when patients
present with sexual dysfunctions so that treatment is directed to the root causes.
Methods: Quantitative retrospective analysis of records of patients presenting with sexual dysfunctions
was performed at the Sexology Clinic in Nairobi. Records analysis of patients’ files seen at the clinic for
12 months were analyzed. A total of 396 files were reviewed (362 males and 34 females) using a
standard tool. Biopsychosocial factors and treatment correlations were performed.
Results: The commonest comorbidities in male sexual dysfunctions were metabolic diseases comprising
hypertension (19%), hyperlipidemia (17%), diabetes (14%), and obesity (9%). Hormonal disorders were
also common, with testosterone deficiency being the leading factor at 16% followed by
hyperprolactinemia and thyroid hormone disorders each at 2% of all male dysfunctions. Medicines used
in treating metabolic disorders also adversely affect sexual function in males. Conversely, the most
common comorbidities in female sexual dysfunction were menopause and female genital cutting. In both
males and females, comorbidities included infertility, cancer and its treatment, and psychological or
psychiatric problems. Sleep deprivation, alcohol and drug abuse, stressful lifestyles, and relationship
disharmony were associated with sexual dysfunction in both sexes.
Conclusions: Lifestyle diseases are commonly associated with sexual dysfunctions, which could be
indicators for lifestyle diseases.
Recommendations: Service providers should use sexual dysfunctions as an entry point for full patient
assessment for commonly associated disease conditions.