Can a high visceral adiposity index predict female sexual dysfunction in
sexually active women? Results of a cross-sectional study.
Abstract
Aims: To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating the impact
of high visceral adiposity index on female sexual dysfunction (FSD). We
aimed to show the impact of increased levels of visceral adiposity index
(VAI) on FSD compared to body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference
(WC). Methods: We included 158 participants in two groups: Group 1 (n=68
with normal sexual function) and Group 2 (n=90 with sexual dysfunction).
Demographic, clinic data, presence of metabolic syndrome (MeTS) and
comorbidities were recorded. The BMI, WC and the visceral adiposity
index were calculated. Sexual function was assessed using the female
sexual function index (FSFI). Results: The mean age and all the
anthropometric variables were similar between the groups
(p>0.05). Metabolic syndrome was associated with lower
arousal and lubrication scores than those without metabolic syndrome
(p=0.023). The higher VAI was associated with lower desire, lubrication
and orgasm scores (p<0.05). Each integer increase of the VAI
weakly predicted decrease of desire (p=0.015), arousal (p=0.015),
lubrication (p=0.005) and satisfaction (p=0.046). Conclusion: The VAI
was linked with lower scores in some female sexual function subdomains,
but the correlation coefficient was low, indicating a weak association.
Further studies with a higher number of participants are needed to
conclude that the VAI may increase the risk of FSD, particularly in
patients with metabolic syndrome.