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Sexual Function and Satisfaction in the Context of Obesity

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Sexual dysfunction is commonly associated with overweight/obesity, but the underlying physiological and psychosocial mechanisms are not fully understood. This review contextualizes the obesity-sexual (dys)function relationship, describes recent insights from the medical and social science literature, and suggests opportunities for continued research.

Recent Findings

Although sexual dysfunction has been historically evaluated as a consequence/outcome of obesity, it is increasingly considered as a harbinger of future metabolic comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Body image dissatisfaction is a consistent predictor for lower sexual satisfaction across BMI categories, likely mediated by cognitive distraction during partnered sex.

Summary

To fully capture the relationship between obesity and sexual dysfunction, multidisciplinary research approaches are warranted. While clinically significant weight loss tends to improve sexual functioning for women and men, higher body image satisfaction may independently promote sexual function and satisfaction without concomitant weight loss.

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Funding

Dr. Gletsu-Miller reports research funding from Eli Lilly and Company. The funding organization did not participate in the writing of this review, and the content is solely the responsibility of the authors.

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  1. Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health-Bloomington, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA

    Sean M. McNabney & Nana Gletsu-Miller

  2. Department of Psychology, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN, USA

    David L. Rowland

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McNabney, S.M., Gletsu-Miller, N. & Rowland, D.L. Sexual Function and Satisfaction in the Context of Obesity. Curr Diab Rep 23, 315–327 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-023-01523-1

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