Sexual dysfunction in men with alcohol dependence.

BACKGROUND

Prolonged and excessive use of alcohol can affect the sexual function. The occurrence of sexual dysfunction has adverse psychological and interpersonal consequences.

AIM: To assess the occurrence and correlates of sexual dysfunction in individuals suffering from alcohol dependence.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Seventy male subjects hospitalized in a tertiary care hospital for treatment of alcohol dependence syndrome with simple withdrawal symptoms were included in the study with their informed consent. Their sexual function was evaluated utilizing a 14-item changes in sexual functioning questionnaire.

RESULTS

According to the findings of the current study, sexual dysfunction is quite prevalent in alcohol-dependent people (75.7%). Erectile dysfunction was the most common disorder, followed by diminished sexual desire and early ejaculation.

CONCLUSION

Alcohol-dependence patients have a high prevalence of sexual dysfunctions. In routine clinical practice, this may be overlooked. Clinicians must be made aware of the frequent occurrence of sexual disorders in alcohol dependence patients.