Association of sexual function and psychological symptoms (depression, anxiety and stress) in women with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasisis (RVVC) is one of the common vaginal infections in women which could affect their quality of life, romantic relationships, and sexual performance. There is some evidence that psychological problems result in the incidence of RVVC by changing the immune systems of individuals. The aim of this study was to determine the association of sexual function and psychological factors (depression, anxiety, and stress) in women with RVVC.In the case control study, fifty women with RVVC and 50 healthy women who referred to gynecology clinics were selected using convenience purposive sampling. Two samples of vaginal discharge were prepared from each person. A sample was produced under a microscope for direct observation of the organism with 10% potassium hydroxide secretions and another sample was cultured on Sabouraud Agar. Data collection tools used for this study included demographic questionnaire, Female Sexual Function Index, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-21). Data were analyzed using SPSS software (version 19).Less sexual satisfaction (OR = 0.608, CI =0.421-0.878) and less orgasm (OR = 0.741, CI =0.530-0.998) have been associated with an increased risk of RVVC. In patients with RVVC, the levels of depression, anxiety and stress were significantly higher compared to those of healthy individuals.Depression, anxiety and stress in the past 4 weeks are related to an increase risk of RVVC. There is an association between depression, anxiety and stress; sexual satisfaction; and orgasm with RVVC. It seems that psychological interventions and sexual counseling can be effective in improving RVVC.