Medicus, Vol. 33 No. 2 Zdravlje žene, 2024.
Review article
Women and Sexuality
Nina Bašić Marković
Nataša Mrduljaš Đujić
Roberta Marković
Abstract
A satisfying and healthy sex life is an important component of women’s health and therefore has a significant impact on the quality of life. Women’s sexual health encompasses a broad spectrum of physical, emotional, mental, and social factors that affect female sexuality and sexual functioning. Studies have shown that approximately 22 to 43% of women experience problems in their sexual life, but only 21% seek medical help. Chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, and depression can have profound effects on sexual functioning, reducing sexual desire, causing pain during intercourse, or making it difficult to achieve arousal and orgasm. The etiology of sexual dysfunction is often multifactorial. Thus, a biopsychosocial approach to sexuality is suggested, including physical, emotional, relational, and sociocultural aspects. Empowering women through education, access to healthcare services, and openness to their own needs and desires can significantly contribute to their satisfaction and quality of life.
Keywords
women’s sexual health; sexual dysfunction; chronic diseases
Hrčak ID:
328499
URI
Publication date:
27.2.2025.
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