Female Sexual Dysfunction Among Indian Women Working Night Shifts: A Hospital-based Cross-sectional Study

Background: Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a multifaceted health concern encompassing disturbances in desire, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction, significantly impacting women’s quality of life. Despite growing female participation in night-shift occupations, data on their sexual health remain scarce in India. Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of FSD among Indian women engaged in night-shift work, identify associated sociodemographic and occupational factors, and evaluate the impact of work duration and shift frequency on the severity of sexual dysfunction. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 154 female healthcare workers aged 21–45 years employed in night shifts for six months or more. Participants completed a semi-structured sociodemographic and occupational proforma and the validated 19-item Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and tests for linear trend, with a P value < .05 considered significant. Results: The prevalence of FSD was 55.2%. Desire and arousal were the most affected domains, followed by satisfaction and pain. The prevalence of FSD was significantly higher among older women, those in upper socioeconomic classes, and participants working ≥ 15-night shifts per month or with shift durations ≥ 6 hours. Conclusion: FSD is highly prevalent among Indian women working night shifts, with occupational stress, irregular sleep schedules, and longer shift durations as major contributors. Addressing these modifiable factors through workplace interventions, counseling, and health education may improve sexual and overall well-being in this population.