Effect of Vitamin D Therapy on Sexual Function in Women with Sexual Dysfunction and Vitamin D Deficiency: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Clinical Trial

PURPOSE: We investigated the effect of vitamin D therapy on sexual function in women with low vitamin D levels and sexual dysfunction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed this randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial in women 18 to 45 years old with sexual dysfunction, defined as a FSFI (Female Sexual Functioning Index) score less than 26.55, and serum 25[OH]D less than 30 ng/ml. Participants received an intramuscular injection of 300,000 IU cholecalciferol or a placebo at baseline and then after 4 weeks. Sexual function was evaluated with the FSFI at baseline, and 4 and 8 weeks. The serum level of 25[OH]D was measured and depression symptoms were evaluated by the BDI (Beck Depression Inventory) at baseline and 8 weeks. RESULTS: A total of 38 women in each group completed the study. Serum 25[OH]D levels increased only in the cholecalciferol group by a mean ± SD of 14.4 ± 3.2 ng/ml (p <0.001). The FSFI score was higher in the intervention group at study week 4 (19.6 vs 16.3, p = 0.002) and week 8 (25.0 vs 17.1, p <0.001). The BDI score was significantly decreased only in the cholecalciferol group by a mean of -21.0 ± 12.3 (p <0.001). The effect of treatment on sexual function was independent of its effect on depression symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D therapy in women with sexual dysfunction and vitamin D deficiency can improve sexual function. This effect does not seem to be mediated by an improvement in depression symptoms.