ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION STUDY IN MEN WITH INFERTILITY: PREVALENCE AND FACTORS

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED), psychoemotional disorders and sexual activity in men with primary and secondary infertility. Materials and methods. The study was conducted from May 2023 to March 2024 at the Republican Urology Center in Makhachkala and included 57 eligible men divided into primary (n = 38) and secondary (n = 19) infertility groups. Participants completed anonymous questionnaires that included a fertility score, the International Erectile Function Index (IIEF-5), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Results. It was found that men with secondary infertility were more likely to show erectile dysfunction and had lower sexual satisfaction compared to men in the primary group, although no significant differences in the frequency of sexual acts were observed. The PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores also showed comparable results for both groups. Conclusions. The study identified a need for a comprehensive approach in the treatment of men with infertility that takes into account both physical and psychological aspects. This may include medication and emotional support to improve quality of life and successful conception in couples facing this problem.