Abstract: FR-PO846
Sexual Function, Activity, and Satisfaction Among Young Females with CKD
Session Information
- Women's Health and Kidney Diseases
November 03, 2023 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Pennsylvania Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Women's Health and Kidney Diseases
- 2200 Women's Health and Kidney Diseases
Authors
- Corbett, Kathryn, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Riehl-Tonn, Victoria J., University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Chang, Danica H., University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Ahmed, Sofia B., University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Dumanski, Sandi M., University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Background
Up to 80% of women with chronic kidney disease (CKD) experience sexual dysfunction, though its link with sexual activity and sexual satisfaction is not known. Recent literature demonstrates that among older women with kidney failure treated with dialysis, the majority report sexual inactivity, few describe sexual dysfunction and most report high sexual satisfaction. Whether this applies to young females with CKD has not been described. Our objectives were to determine the incidence of sexual activity, sexual dysfunction and sexual satisfaction among young females with CKD.
Methods
Females < 51 years old with CKD were recruited from nephrology clinics in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Participants completed a modified version of the Female Sexual Function Index, a validated tool to assess sexual function.
Results
Thirty-six females with CKD (61% hemodialysis, 14% peritoneal dialysis, 14% stage G3-5 CKD, 11% transplant) participated. The median age was 37 years old (IQR 32, 43) and all participants identified as cis-gender. Eighteen participants (51%) reported sexual activity, and 82% of these individuals met criteria for sexual dysfunction. Among all participants, only 23% reported satisfaction with their sex life, while 57% reported moderate to severe dissatisfaction. Sexual dissatisfaction was more common among women experiencing sexual dysfunction (p = 0.003).
Conclusion
Young females with CKD are sexually active and experience a high incidence of both sexual dysfunction and dissatisfaction. These findings emphasize the importance of screening for sexual dysfunction and providing effective treatment options.