Sexual dysfunction: A systematic review of South African research

Abstract

Background. The World Health Organisation is in the process of revising the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD). Sexual dysfunction disorders (F52) categories have been identified as having poor clinical utility. South Africa (SA) has been selected as one of five low- and middle-income countries in which studies will be developed to assess the clinical utility of the proposed ICD-11 revisions for sexual dysfunctions.

Objective. To identify scientific research generated in SA on sexual dysfunction disorders to guide these clinic-based field studies.

Methods. A systematic review of SA research on the topic of sexual dysfunctions published in SA peer-reviewed medical journals.

Results. Despite the high prevalence of ejaculatory and erectile dysfunctions, only five SA articles have addressed male sexual dysfunction in SA journals since 1970. Lack of sexual interest and inability to reach orgasm are the most commonly reported complaints for women, yet only four SA articles have been published on the topic of female dysfunction. Diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease, genitourinary disease and psychiatric or psychological disorders are common comorbid conditions associated with sexual dysfunction across sexes, but only nine articles address sexual dysfunction as the main topic with respect to comorbid conditions.

Conclusion. Despite growing awareness of the importance of sexual health, SA-based scientific research on sexual dysfunction is limited. Further work is needed to inform recommendations for ICD-11 revisions drawn from the SA context.