Prevalence and factors associated with sexual dysfunction among HIV-positive women in Europe

Little is known on female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among HIV-positive women. A cross-sectional survey in seven European HIV centres was performed and data on medical history, antiretroviral treatment and laboratory results were collected. Sexual function was evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The data from 166 women were available (response rate = 77%). The non-respondents had a lower CD4 cell count, were older and more frequently of sub-Saharan African origin. The overall median FSFI was 25.2 (interquartile range = 19.3). Thirty-six women (25%) had a FSFI score less than or equal to 10. Depression, irritability and anxiety were associated with a low FSFI score. The participants reported a significant decrease in sex functioning since HIV diagnosis but not since the start of antiretroviral treatment. Sexual dysfunction in women with HIV infection is frequent and is mainly driven by psychological factors and by the HIV diagnosis.