1. ¹Faculty Member of Azad University of Zanjan Branch, Zanjan, Iran
2. ²Faculty Member of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran

Correspondence: Dr SS Sobhgol, Faculty Member of Azad University of Zanjan, Azad University of Zanjan Branch, Moalem Squar, Mail Box 34185-195, Qazvin, 0098, Iran. E-mail: saharsadatsobhgol@yahoo.com

Received 6 October 2005; Revised 5 May 2006; Accepted 8 May 2006; Published online 22 June 2006.

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine rate and related factors of dyspareunia. Three hundred and nineteen women aged 15–49 years were surveyed. A questionnaire was used to collect data. Pelvic examinations and connective tissue disorders were investigated. At whole 54.5% had dyspareunia. The means of gravidity, parity, delivery without episiotomy and vaginal length were more in women with dyspareunia. Heavy lifting, chronic pulmonary obstructive disease, arthritis, constipation, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic muscle strength had significant relation to dyspareunia. The prevalence of urinary infection, stress incontinence, urgency, positional changes to start or complete voiding, fecal straining, low back pain, digital manipulation of vagina, perineum or anus to complete defecation, feeling genital pain or pressure and sensation of a mass in vagina was more in women with dyspareunia. These factors can be considered in the evaluation of women, to prevent those at risk and also have better management of this disorder.