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Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunctions: Results from a Decade of Research

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Abstract

Ten years of research that has provided data regarding the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions is reviewed. A thorough review of the literature identified 52 studies published in the 10 years since an earlier review by Spector and Carey (Arch. Sex. Behav. 19(4): 389–408, 1990). Community samples indicate a current prevalence of 0%–3% for male orgasmic disorder, 0%–5% for erectile disorder, and 0%–3% for male hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Pooling current and 1-year figures provides community prevalence estimates of 7%–10% for female orgasmic disorder and 4%–5% for premature ejaculation. Stable community estimates of the current prevalence of other sexual dysfunctions remain unavailable. Prevalence estimates obtained from primary care and sexuality clinic samples are characteristically higher. Although a relatively large number of studies has been conducted since the earlier review, the lack of methodological rigor of many studies limits the confidence that can be placed in these findings.

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  1. Department of Psychology, Syracuse University, 430 Huntington Hall, Syracuse, New York, 13244-2340

    Jeffrey S. Simons

  2. Center for Health and Behavior, Syracuse University, Syracuse, New York, 13244-2340

    Michael P. Carey (Director)

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  1. Jeffrey S. Simons
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Simons, J.S., Carey, M.P. Prevalence of Sexual Dysfunctions: Results from a Decade of Research. Arch Sex Behav 30, 177–219 (2001). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1002729318254

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