Sexual Function in Patients with Lumbar and Cervical Discopathy: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Pain and discomfort in the lower back and cervical regions are common symptoms of many musculoskeletal and non-musculoskeletal diseases, and these conditions have a high prevalence in society. Such problems can significantly affect patients' quality of life, including their sexual function (SF). Objectives: This study aimed to determine and compare the status of SF in patients with cervical and lumbar discopathy (LD) and healthy individuals. Methods: This case-control study was conducted in Ilam city in 2025. The study population comprised individuals with LD (48), cervical discopathy (CD) (48), and healthy controls (48), aged 18 - 60 years. Data were collected using questionnaires on personal characteristics, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the Brief Sexual Function Inventory (BSFI) for men, and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain intensity. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 18, with descriptive and inferential statistical tests. Results: Among women, the mean ± SD SF score in the CD group was 27.81 ± 3.82, in the LD group was 22.31 ± 5.89, and in the control group was 30.26 ± 2.76. Among men, the mean ± SD SF score was 26.80 ± 5.83 in the CD group, 24.60 ± 4.57 in the LD group, and 36.29 ± 1.98 in the control group. Statistically significant differences were observed in the overall SF scores (P < 0.001) and all dimensions (P < 0.05) among the three groups in both men and women. Conclusions: Given that SF scores were lower in patients with cervical and lumbar disc disorders than in healthy individuals, it is recommended to implement appropriate interventions to improve SF in these patients. Furthermore, consultation with a midwife or gynecologist should be included in the treatment process to enhance patients' sexual health.