Login to Access Video or Poster Abstract: MP84-09
Sources of Funding: none

Introduction

Patient reported depression is a common data point on sexual health intake surveys. However, limited data are available on correlation between depressive symptoms and sexual dysfunction. We therefore sought to evaluate for relevant associations among a cohort of men presenting to a sexual health clinic with concomitant depressive symptoms.

Methods

We collected data on all consecutive men undergoing evaluation for sexual health concerns in a men's sexual health clinic between March 2014 and October 2016 at our institution. Detailed information was obtained on topics including relationships, libido, erectile dysfunction, premature and delayed ejaculation and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) scores. Data regarding pertinent medical, surgical and social history was also collected. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate for significant associations between patients reporting depressive symptoms and information on other sexual dysfunctions.

Results

A total of 884 patients had data available on depressive symptoms and complete sexual function information. Of the cohort, mean IIEF scores were 29.3, and 207 (23%) endorsed depressive symptoms. Among patients reporting depressive symptoms, the most common presenting concerns included erectile dysfunction (75%), penile curvature (28%), low libido/hypogonadism (24%), low testosterone (20%) and ejaculatory dysfunction (10%)(>100% due to more than one concern permitted). Univariate analysis identified lower total IIEF scores (mean 25.9) in men with depressive symptoms compared to those without (mean 30.3, p=0.008). Interestingly, on subgroup analysis, depressive symptoms failed to significantly correlate with the erectile function domain (p=0.10), but did correlate with the orgasmic function (p<0.01), sexual desire(p<0.01), intercourse satisfaction (p<0.01), and the overall satisfaction domains (p<0.0001). Additionally, patients with depressive symptoms were more likely to report that their sexual dysfunction negatively impacted their relationships (p<0.01) and had significantly shorter relationships than those without similar symptoms (20.7 years vs. 25.3 years, respectively, p<0.01).Patients reporting depressive symptoms also reported significantly lower intercourse frequency per month (3.4 vs. 4.5, respectively, p=0.01).

Conclusions

Patients who reported depressive symptoms had significantly lower IIEF scores, including reduced orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction domains without significant differences in the erectile function domain. Additionally, these patients had shorter relationships, lower intercourse frequency and were more likely to report that their sexual dysfunction negatively impacted their relationships. These intriguing findings highlight novel areas of potential future research for the impact of mental health on sexual dysfunctions.

Funding

none