Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychiatric Diseases and Quality of Life: A Review.
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Submission date: 2013-12-06
Final revision date: 2014-05-27
Acceptance date: 2014-07-15
Publication date: 2014-08-20
Psychiatr Pol 2014;48(4):715-726
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ABSTRACT
Sexual dysfunctions may have a significant effect on the quality of life, but are unreported and under-diagnosed. A review of recent literature highlights the correlation between dysfunction and a decreased quality of life in people with psychiatric comorbidity, and explores several aspects impacting care, from following the patient to pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments.
Sexual dysfunctions (SD) have a significant effect on quality of life, and have been shown to be prevalent, but under-diagnosed and undertreated because of communication barriers between patients and physicians. Pharmacogenic and morbogenic causes of the sexual problems are often difficult to differentiate. Psychiatric diseases may increase the risk of SD, and SD may further exacerbate psychiatric problems, suggesting a bi-directional relationship. Their effective treatment frequently involves a combination of elements from psychotherapy, and behavioral along with pharmacotherapeutic intervention, if needed.
The persistence of sexual problems has significant negative impact on patient’s satisfaction and adherence with the treatment, quality of life and partnership. Routine assessment of sexual function needs to be integrated into ongoing care to indentify and address problems early. If sexual dysfunction is ignored it may maintain the psychiatric disorder, compromise treatment outcome and lead to non-adherence and compromise treatment outcome.