Patterns and predictors of female sexual dysfunction among women of reproductive age attending the gynaecology clinic at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital

Background: Female sexual dysfunction is prevalent globally, yet sexuality remains taboo in many societies, leading to infrequent discussions between women and physicians. This study assessed the patterns and predictors of female sexual dysfunction among reproductive-age women attending the gynaecology clinic at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 375 reproductive-age women recruited from the hospital’s gynaecological outpatient department. Data were collected via a pre-tested, interviewer-administered, semi-structured questionnaire that gathered socio-demographic information, psychological factors (anxiety, stress, and depression), and categorized levels of sexual dysfunction as low, moderate, or high. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Many pregnant participants were in their prime reproductive years. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 3.5% for low, 95.4% for moderate, and 1.1% for high levels. Younger age and higher education were significantly associated (p<0.05) with lower dysfunction, and stress was significantly linked (p<0.05) to sexual dysfunction, whereas anxiety and depression were not. Conclusions: Given the high prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its impact on quality of life, healthcare providers should routinely assess sexual function and offer professional support to enhance women’s sexual well-being.