What is it about?
This study explores how sexual desire is affected in women living with fibromyalgia — a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and fatigue. The research involved 81 Spanish women: 46 diagnosed with fibromyalgia and 35 without the condition. Findings revealed that women with fibromyalgia reported lower levels of sexual desire — both toward their partners, other people, and themselves — compared to healthy women. Moreover, factors such as depression, age, and time since diagnosis were directly linked to reduced sexual desire. The study highlights that not only physical pain but also emotional and psychological factors play a crucial role in women’s sexual health. It underscores the need to address sexuality as an essential component of overall well-being.
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Why is it important?
This is the first study to comprehensively assess the different dimensions of sexual desire in women with fibromyalgia, distinguishing between desire for a partner, desire for an attractive person, and solitary sexual desire. It provides new scientific evidence on how depression and illness duration impact female sexuality, helping health professionals design more holistic and person-centered interventions. Moreover, it promotes a broader and more positive view of sexuality — one that goes beyond intercourse to include other forms of intimacy and pleasure. At a time when sexual health is still often overlooked in chronic illness care, this research calls for breaking taboos and recognizing sexual well-being as a vital part of quality of life.
Perspectives
As a researcher, I have always been deeply interested in understanding how chronic health conditions affect people’s intimate and emotional lives. This study was especially meaningful to me because it gives voice to an often-overlooked reality: the sexuality of women with fibromyalgia. What struck me most was realizing that, beyond physical pain, emotional suffering and lack of partner support can profoundly shape sexual desire. I believe healthcare professionals must go beyond physical symptoms to talk openly about sexuality, emotions, and relationships. My goal with this publication was to contribute to a more human, compassionate, and comprehensive view of women’s sexual health — one that recognizes that desire can flourish again when sadness, guilt, and loneliness are addressed.
Ph.D María del Mar Sánchez-Fuentes
Universidad de Granada
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Sexual desire in women with fibromyalgia: beyond the pain?, The Journal of Sexual Medicine, May 2025, Oxford University Press (OUP),
DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdaf123.
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