Assessing predictors of sexual function in mid-aged sexually active women.

OBJECTIVE: To assess predictors of sexual function in mid-aged women.

METHODS: We analyzed data of 262 healthy sexually active women (40-59 years) who filled out the Female Sexual Functioning Index (FSFI), the Menopause Rating Scale (MRS) and a general questionnaire containing female/partner data. Correlations between these two measures were also analyzed.

RESULTS: Significant inverse correlations were found between all FSFI and MRS scores. This was most evident for the MRS urogenital score in relation to FSFI total, pain and lubrication scores. Multiple linear regression analysis determined best model predicting total FSFI index scores that explained a 66% of the variance. In this model, MRS urogenital score was an important predictor of female sexual function (total FSFI scores) with a significant inverse relation. Additionally total FSFI scores displayed a significant positive correlation with female educational level and HT use and an inverse relation with partner age and female parity.

CONCLUSION: Several female/partner factors predicted female sexual function in this mid-aged series. MRS urogenital scores significantly correlated with total FSFI scores.