(183) Psychosexual Consequences of Genital Warts on Female Sexual Function: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction Genital warts (GWs), a common manifestation of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, are among the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections in women of reproductive age. Beyond their physical presentation, GWs can lead to substantial psychological and sexual distress. Concerns about disease recurrence, contagion, altered body image, and social stigma often interfere with intimacy and emotional well-being. Despite their frequency, the complex psychosexual consequences of genital warts and their impact on female sexual function and quality of life remain underexplored. Objective To evaluate sexual function and sexual distress in women diagnosed with genital warts and to identify clinical and demographic factors associated with sexual dysfunction. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 80 sexually active women aged 18–45 years with a confirmed diagnosis of genital warts lasting at least three months and a stable heterosexual relationship of at least six months. Pregnancy, a history of mastectomy, pre-existing sexual disorders, or the use of psychotropic medications were among the exclusion criteria. A control group of 50 age-matched women without genital warts was also included. All participants completed the validated Greek versions of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), assessing six domains-desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain-and the Female Sexual Distress Scale–Revised (FSDS-R), measuring distress related to sexual dysfunction. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v22 with chi-square, Student’s t, and Mann–Whitney U tests, setting significance at p < 0.05. Results Women with genital warts demonstrated significantly lower FSFI total and domain scores-including desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain-compared with controls (p < 0.0001 for all comparisons). In contrast, FSDS-R total scores were substantially higher in the GW group, indicating markedly greater sexual distress (p < 0.0001). A strong negative correlation was found between FSFI and FSDS-R total scores (r = –0.71, p < 0.0001), signifying that diminished sexual function was closely associated with elevated distress. The number of lesions showed a direct positive correlation with FSDS-R scores and an inverse relationship with FSFI scores, suggesting that more extensive disease burden intensifies psychosexual impairment. Sociodemographic variables such as education level, residence, smoking habits, and contraceptive use were not significantly associated with sexual function or distress outcomes. Conclusions Genital warts profoundly compromise sexual function and heighten sexuality-related distress in affected women. The findings underscore the importance of a holistic management approach that integrates sexual counselling and psychological support alongside standard medical treatment. Early identification of psychosexual distress should be incorporated into clinical practice to improve patient recovery and enhance long-term sexual well-being. Furthermore, targeted educational interventions that enhance HPV awareness and reduce stigma may contribute to improved emotional resilience and quality of life among women living with genital warts. Disclosure No