The Relationship between Depression and Anxiety with Sexual Function in Postmenopausal Women: A Descriptive Correlational Study in Iran

Background: Psychological factors can affect sexual function. Symptoms of depression and anxiety may affect the sexual function of a woman after menopause. Objective: The study aimed to assess the correlation between depression and anxiety with the sexual function of postmenopausal women. Methods: This was a descriptive correlational study on 255 postmenopausal women. For sampling, a multi-stage method was used to recruit the eligible women from the health centers in Tehran-Iran. The questionnaires for data collection were the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Beck Depression Inventory, Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the women was 52.60 ± 5.11 years. The mean total scores of FSFI, depression, trait anxiety, and State anxiety were 54.05 ± 30.73, 19.00 ± 12.86, 40.73 ± 16.33, and 39.82 ± 16.57 percent, respectively. The female sexual dysfunction was reported in 65.5 percent of subjects. The total scores of FSFI and its dimensions had a significant negative correlation with the scores of depression, Trait-, and state anxiety. There was a negative correlation between the total score of FSFI with the age of women and their husbands and the duration of menopause. A significant positive correlation was found between FSFI with the education of women and the adequacy of their family income. The occupations of the women and their husbands were also related to FSFI. The multiple linear regression showed that state anxiety and depression are potential predictors of FSFI. Conclusion: Depression and anxiety are associated with decreased sexual function in postmenopausal women. Therefore, adopting appropriate policies is necessary to reduce depression and anxiety among postmenopausal women to promote their mental health and sexual function. conclusion: Depression and anxiety are associated with decreased sexual function in postmenopausal women. Therefore, adopting appropriate policies are necessary to reduce depression and anxiety among postmenopausal women to promote their mental health and sexual function.