Sexual function, health functionality, and quality of life in females with pulmonary arterial hypertension: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) can have several consequences on sexual function, which can lead to worsened quality of life. Aim The study sought to assess sexual function and its association with health functionality and quality of life in females with PAH. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in pulmonary circulation outpatient clinics from January 2022 to March 2023 in females diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension. Assessment was carried out through the application of the Female Sexual Function Index, the 36-item World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule, and the Medical Outcome Study 36-Item Short Form Survey. Outcomes Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 and JASP, and Spearman’s correlation tests were applied between the instruments, with a P value <.05 considered significant. Results A total of 91 females were assessed. It was identified that 90.1% of females had sexual dysfunction, with worse scores in females with sexual dysfunction in the domains of satisfaction, arousal, and desire, with average health functionality and quality of life. There were significant correlations between the domains of mobility, getting along, life activities, and the overall functionality score with some domains of sexual function, especially arousal and satisfaction. We found significant correlations between some domains of quality-of-life assessment with the domains of desire, arousal, and satisfaction, and with the overall score of sexual function assessment, as well as strong correlations between health functionality and quality of life. Clinical Implication The data reinforce the need for rehabilitation programs and social support for this population. Strengths and Limitations This is one of the few studies to evaluate sexual function, quality of life, and health functionality in women with PAH. Due to limitations in data collection, we were unable to assess certain factors such as hormone levels and a history of sexual abuse. Conclusion We identified a high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in females with PAH with mild functional impairment and a moderate quality-of-life score with correlations between sexual function, health functionality, and quality of life.