Sexual dysfunction in women with type 1 diabetes: A qualitative study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Sexual dysfunction in women with type 1 diabetes: A qualitative study to explore the women’s understanding of sexual dysfunction and how it should be addressed in clinical settings.
IRAS ID
273124
Contact name
Angus Forbes
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
King's College
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 26 days
Research summary
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune condition that results in destruction of insulin producing beta-cells in the pancreas resulting in high blood sugar levels. T1DM is associated with multiple complications affecting the eyes, kidneys, heat and brain. T1DM is also associated with sexual dysfunction (SD) in both men and women. In women SD includes a low libido (sex drive) and pain or discomfort in intercourse. These difficulties can also cause psychological distress and impact on personal relationships. They have been very few studies addressing SD in women with T1DM, those that have been conducted show a higher prevalence of SD in women with T1DM compared to women with Type 2 Diabetes or healthy women. However, very little is known about the women’s lived experiences of SD and its impact on their quality of life. Qualitative studies are needed to better understanding the emotional and personal challenges of SD in women with T1D.
The proposed research aims to explore the experiences of women with T1DM, under the care of the diabetes centre at Weston Super Mare in the South West of England. The study will consider the SD issues experienced by these women and identify their views on how these could be better considered in the care they receive. The findings will be used to improve local care and as a platform for further inquiry in relation to SD in women with T1DM more generally. The study will interview women to elicit their experiences of SD and their views on how care can be improved in respect of SD. The study aims to recruit 6 to 10 women who identify problems with SD. Full consent will be gained from all by using a participant information sheet (attached) and written consent form.
REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/SW/0005
Date of REC Opinion
19 Feb 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion