Predictors of Sexual Dysfunction Following Myocardial Infarction

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Sexual dysfunction is a common but often overlooked consequence of myocardial infarction (MI), affecting quality of life, intimate relationships, and psychological well-being. Recognizing associated factors may help identify patients who need targeted counselling and follow-up. Aim of the study: To determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) following MI and identify their associated clinical factors. Methods & Materials: This observational study included 105 adult male patients with documented MI. Sociodemographic characteristics, cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidities, smoking status, and duration since MI were recorded. Among 60 participants with complete sexual-function data, ED was assessed using the 6-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-6), while PE was assessed using the Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool (PEDT). ED was defined as an IIEF-6 score ≤24 and PE as a PEDT score ≥9. Associations between sexual dysfunction and clinical characteristics were evaluated using appropriate statistical tests. Result: ED was present in 28 (46.7%) participants, whereas PE was identified in 14 (23.3%). ED was significantly more common among participants aged >60 years (60.0% vs. 33.3%, p=0.038), those with diabetes mellitus (83.3% vs. 37.5%, p=0.004), current smokers (61.5% vs. 35.3%, p=0.043), and those with MI duration >3 months (69.0% vs. 25.8%, p=0.005). Mean IIEF-6 scores were significantly lower among participants aged >60 years (19.4±6.1 vs. 22.5±5.2, p=0.039). No significant associations were observed between PE and age, diabetes, hypertension, smoking, dyslipidemia, or duration since MI. Conclusion: ED was common following MI and was associated with older age, diabetes, smoking, and longer post-MI duration. PE was also prevalent but showed no significant clinical associations. Routine sexual-function assessment should be considered during post-MI follow-up.