Perceived sexual satisfaction among women with drug-dependent husbands in Iran

Background: Sexual satisfaction is known as one of the most important components of relationship satisfaction and quality of life. The present study aimed to evaluate the associated parameters of sexual satisfaction among female spouses of male drug dependents as one of the hidden populations in Iran. Method: A total of 138 women with drug-dependent husbands were included in this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic characteristics, anxiety and depression scores, sexual function and emotional parameters were entered into a stepwise linear regression model to find the possible predictors. Findings: Mean age, marital length and spousal drug use length were 35 +/- 8, 14 +/- 10 and 12 +/- 8 years, respectively. Perceived lack of security [p<0.001, B = 0.630, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.364-0.897], history of physical abuse by husband (p<0.001, B = 0.297, 95% CI = 1.912-5.771) and marital length (p = 0.003, B = 0.142, 95% CI = 0.048-0.236) were found to be significantly associated with sexual satisfaction among female spouses of male drug dependents in Iran. Conclusion: Results of the current study highlight the need for more attention to environmental and sociocultural parameters as the associated parameters of sexual satisfaction among female spouses of male drug dependents. Further research is needed with respect to a multidimensional evaluation of sexual satisfaction among this vulnerable hidden population in Iran, especially to find causative relations.