Frequency and Characteristics of Sexual Dysfunctions among theMarried Couples Suffering from Substance Use Disorder

Abstract

Introduction: Substance use disorder is closely linked to psychiatric comorbidity and sexual dysfunction, with prolonged use impairing sexual health. This study aims to assess the prevalence and characteristics of sexual dysfunction in married couples with substance use disorder and its association with socio-demographic and related factors. Methods & Materials: This cross-sectional study, conducted from September 2020 to August 2022 at Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, included 49 married Substance Use Disorder patients diagnosed per DSM-5 criteria. Data on socio-demographics and related variables were collected using a structured questionnaire, and sexual dysfunctions were screened with the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX). Informed consent was obtained, and SPSS 25 was used for analysis. Result: This study sexual dysfunction (SD) was found in 36.7%, with 63.3% showing no dysfunction. Among SD cases, 61.1% had an ASEX score ≥19. Male participants with SD commonly experienced low desire (60%) and erection difficulty (66.7%), while females reported low desire (66.7%) and orgasmic issues (100%). SD prevalence increased with longer substance use (p = 0.002). Cannabis (4.1%) and poly-substance use (24.5%) were more common in SD cases, while cannabis alone (30.6%) was higher in those without SD. Substance use type was significantly associated with SD (p = 0.01). Conclusion: This study revealed that married individuals with substance use disorders had a notably high frequency of sexual dysfunctions, affecting all areas. This study highlights the significance of asking patients with substance use disorders about their sexual dysfunction and the necessity for awareness of this issue.