Chronic Respiratory Diseases and Sexual Function

Sexual health problems may have biological, social, and psychological origin. Among the first ones, multiple factors such as age, physical and/or hormonal changes, the onset of diseases and their symptoms, and the use of certain medications for certain conditions may play a significant role. Patients with chronic respiratory diseases may experience sexual dysfunction more frequently than the general population. In respiratory diseases, the physical demands of sexual activity could exacerbate the underlying respiratory condition. Additionally, symptoms such as coughing, fatigue, and emotional disorders, as well as the use of devices to treat some specific diseases and to improve symptoms, can disrupt patients’ sexual health and negatively impact their quality of life. Some studies have shown that these disruptions can manifest as emotional issues like lack of sexual interest and low self-esteem, or physical issues such as erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation in men, or lack of lubrication in women. Sexual health is not routinely addressed, and the available tools and resources are diverse. Therefore, it would be beneficial to provide patients and/or their partners with general recommendations through biopsychosocial approach to improve their sexual health.