The Relationship Between Sleep and Sexual Function in Women

Purpose of Review: Sleep and sexual problems in women are common. They often co-exist and may negatively impact women’s quality of life. The aim of this review is to present the current evidence on the associations of sleep and sexual problems in women. Recent Findings: Despite the heterogeneity in the aims and methodologies, most of the research has supported an association between sleep disturbances and sexual problems in women. Some studies specifically demonstrated an association between obstructive sleep apnea and worse sexual function in women. Poor sleep quality was associated with worse sexual arousal and orgasm in women, as well as more sexual dissatisfaction and sexual distress. Furthermore, the treatment of sleep apnea and good sleep quality were linked with better sexual function in women. It is possible that other psychosocial or biological factors that impact both sleep and sexual function may be mediating the relationship between these outcomes. Summary: The collective evidence presented supports an association between sleep and sexual problems in women. Specifically, both obstructive sleep apnea and poor sleep quality are associated with risk for sexual problems in women. Thus, clinicians should be aware of these associations and consider screening for sexual dysfunction in women with these sleep issues. Additional research utilizing tools that assess distress as part of the determination of sexual dysfunction and are followed longitudinally may provide further insights into the relationships identified.