Sexual dysfunction in obesity: An observational study validation.
Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra Vyavāya) in obesity (Sthaulya): Validation by an observational study
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Parampalli Geetha, B.S. Aravind, G. Pallavi, V. Rajendra, Radhakrishna Rao, Naseema Akhtar
Ancient Science of Life:
(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)
Full text available for: Sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra Vyavāya) in obesity (Sthaulya): Validation by an observational study
Year: 2012
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study examines the relationship between obesity (referred to as "Sthaulya" in Ayurvedic literature) and sexual dysfunction, termed "Kṛcchra Vyavāya." With obesity rates escalating globally, it is becoming increasingly recognized as a significant health concern. The prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) among obese males is notably higher, drawing attention to a possible link between obesity and reduced sexual health. Classical Ayurvedic texts, particularly the Caraka Saṃhitā, have long indicated a correlation between obesity and sexual difficulties. The objective of this research was to validate these ancient claims through a systematic observational study involving 33 male participants diagnosed with obesity.
Sexual Dysfunction and its Phases
The study utilized the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire to assess various aspects of sexual function in the participants, focusing on erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. Findings revealed that a significant percentage of participants experienced varying degrees of sexual dysfunction: 57.6% reported erectile dysfunction, 69.7% faced orgasmic issues, and 81.8% reported problems with overall satisfaction. Notably, 84.8% of individuals had difficulties with sexual desire, which reflected significant psychological and physiological barriers. With a correlation identified between waist-hip ratio and erectile function, the study highlighted that abdominal fat accumulation may impede sexual performance and contribute to emotional instability related to sexual activity.
Conclusion
The results from this observational study affirm that obesity is linked to sexual dysfunction across multiple dimensions of sexual health. The impact of excess body weight manifests not only in physical challenges during sexual intercourse but also in psychological factors that diminish sexual desire and satisfaction. Despite the lack of correlation between body mass index (BMI) and erectile function, there is evidence that waist-hip ratio plays a significant role in sexual health outcomes. The study underscores the need for further investigation into the Ayurvedic concepts surrounding the physiological basis of sexual dysfunction in obesity, particularly concerning the quality and passage of reproductive fluids. Addressing these issues could enhance therapeutic approaches in managing sexual health among obese individuals.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the objective of the study on obesity and sexual dysfunction?
The study aimed to evaluate the relationship between obesity (Sthaulya) and sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra Vyavāya) during different phases of sexual intercourse in male patients with obesity.
How many male patients participated in this observational study?
A total of 33 obese males participated in the study from the outpatient department of Government Ayurveda Medical College and Hospital, Mysore.
What areas of sexual functioning were assessed in the study?
The study assessed erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction using the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire.
What conclusion does the study draw about obesity and sexual dysfunction?
The study concluded that varying degrees of sexual dysfunction are present in obese males, suggesting obesity negatively impacts the quality of sexual functioning.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Sexual dysfunction in obesity: An observational study validation.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Āyurveda indicates the holistic medical system that assesses health through the balance of body, mind, and spirit. Its principles help understand sexual dysfunctions like Kṛcchra and conditions such as Sthaulya.
2) Vyavaya:
Vyavaya again refers to sexual intercourse, illustrating that this core aspect of human experience is profoundly affected by Sthaulya or obesity, resulting in challenges (Kṛcchra) that hinder overall sexual function.
3) Desire:
Desire is a crucial component in sexual intercourse (Vyavāya), representing the psychological urge needed for engagement. The study identifies diminished sexual desire in obese individuals, suggesting that factors like Harṣa (joy) are compromised, leading to difficulties (Kṛcchra Vyavāya) during sexual acts.
4) Kricchra (Krcchra):
Kṛcchra, translated as difficulty in sexual intercourse, describes the challenges individuals face, particularly in the context of obesity (Sthaulya). The text discusses how various factors, including lowered desire or erectile function caused by obesity, contribute to Kṛcchra during sexual interactions.
5) Shukra (Sukra):
Shukra refers to reproductive fluid essential for healthy sexual functioning. The degradation of Shukra quality due to obesity-related factors can contribute significantly to sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra).
6) Sthaulya:
Sthaulya denotes obesity within Ayurveda, which is linked to several health issues, including sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra Vyavāya). The study suggests that Sthaulya has adverse effects on different sexual functions, subsequently affecting overall sexual satisfaction.
7) Harsha (Harsa):
Harṣa signifies joy or excitement, a critical aspect of sexual arousal in Ayurveda. The reduction of Harṣa can impair desire for sexual intercourse (Vyavāya), leading to Kṛcchra, particularly in individuals suffering from obesity (Sthaulya) and related complications.
8) Siddhanta (Siddha-anta, Siddhamta):
Siddhanta encompasses the principles and theories within Ayurveda that guide practitioners in diagnosing and treating conditions such as Sthaulya. This foundational knowledge assists in understanding sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra) within the context of obesity.
9) Medas (Meda, Medash):
Meda, akin to Medas, indicates fat or adipose tissue in Ayurveda. Excess Meda may lead to obesity (Sthaulya), resulting in complications such as Kṛcchra during sexual activities, illustrating the relationship between body composition and sexual function.
10) Channel:
Channel (mārga) in Ayurveda refers to the pathways through which bodily substances flow. In discussions of sexual dysfunction, blockages (Mārgāvarodha) in channels caused by excess Meda can impede sexual activities (Vyavāya), leading to Kṛcchra.
11) Vata:
Vāta refers to one of the three doshas responsible for movement. Any imbalance in Vāta, particularly due to obesity (Sthaulya), can lead to sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra) impacting overall sexual health.
12) Apanavata (Apana-vata):
Apānavāta, being an essential subdosha of Vāta, regulates lower body functions including sexual processes. Any dysfunction in Apānavāta can contribute to Kṛcchra, especially in those burdened by obesity (Sthaulya).
13) Bhava:
Bhāva refers to emotional state or disposition. In the context of sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra), negative Bhāva influenced by obesity can diminish desire and engagement in sexual activities (Vyavāya).
14) Apana:
Apana relates to the process of expulsion and plays a vital role in reproductive health. Impairments in Apana can lead to challenges in achieving sexual satisfaction (Kṛcchra) in the context of obesity.
15) Activity:
Activity in this context refers to the physical actions involved during sexual intercourse (Vyavāya). Obesity (Sthaulya) can hinder physical Activity and lead to difficulties (Kṛcchra) in engaging fully in sexual relationships.
16) Caraka:
Caraka refers to one of the foundational texts of Ayurveda, providing significant insights into the relationship between body conditions like Sthaulya and sexual dysfunction. Caraka addresses the principles underlying these connections in detail.
17) Ceshta (Cesta):
Ceṣṭā signifies the actions or movements involved in sexual intercourse (Vyavāya). The study reveals how obesity (Sthaulya) may lead to difficulties (Kṛcchra) in Ceṣṭā, impacting the overall sexual experience.
18) Priti:
Prīti denotes affection or love, which is essential for a fulfilling sexual relationship. In the context of sexual dilemmas (Kṛcchra) arising from obesity (Sthaulya), the quality of Prīti can be negatively impacted.
19) Tarsha (Tarsa):
Tarṣa refers to thirst or desire, including sexual yearning. An increase in Tarṣa's absence can lead to complications like Kṛcchra during Vyavāya, particularly for individuals affected by obesity (Sthaulya).
20) Post:
[see source text or glossary: #Post#]
21) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
Dravyaguna is a branch of Ayurveda that studies the quality and properties of medicinal substances. Understanding the Dravyaguna of various elements aids in creating treatments for conditions like Sthaulya and Kṛcchra.
22) Paicchilya:
Paicchilya indicates excess moisture or softness in the body. This concept is pertinent when evaluating how Sthaulya can lead to Kṛcchra, causing discomfort during sexual activities (Vyavāya).
23) Daurbalya:
Daurbalya refers to weakness or debility that can arise from various conditions, including obesity (Sthaulya). This weakness can contribute to Kṛcchra by affecting one's capability and desire during sexual activities.
24) Anubhava:
Anu-bhāva signifies associated effects or results stemming from other conditions. The interplay of Anu-bhāva with obesity (Sthaulya) can exacerbate sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra) during intimate encounters.
25) Samhita:
Saṃhitā represents a collection of Ayurvedic texts, rich with insights into health conditions like Sthaulya and their implications on sexual health (Kṛcchra), helping inform practitioners' approaches.
26) Gaurava:
Gaurava refers to heaviness, particularly relevant in the context of Sthaulya. The heaviness associated with obesity can lead to Kṛcchra during sexual engagements, emphasizing the physical limitations experienced.
27) Cyavana:
[see source text or glossary: #Cyavana#]
28) Quality:
Quality refers to the attributes or characteristics of bodily substances, particularly as it relates to health. Within Ayurveda, the Quality of components such as Śukra is influenced by body conditions like Sthaulya, affecting sexual health and leading to Kṛcchra.
29) Science (Scientific):
[see source text or glossary: #Science#]
30) Udara:
Udara signifies the abdomen in Ayurveda. In the context of Sthaulya, excessive Udara prominence due to obesity can lead to Kṛcchra by impacting physical capabilities during sexual activities (Vyavāya).
31) Cyuti:
Cyuti refers to flow or release, pertinent during sexual intercourse (Vyavāya). The Cyuti of Śukra is crucial for sexual health, and hindrances due to Sthaulya can impact this process leading to Kṛcchra.
32) Stana:
Stana means breast in Ayurveda, and its condition can relate to overall body health. In individuals experiencing Sthaulya, the state of Stana can influence sexual satisfaction and contribute to Kṛcchra.
33) Sphik:
Sphik refers to the buttocks in Ayurveda. This area may accumulate Medas in obesity, leading to Sthaulya-related complications that impair the experience of Vyavāya and result in Kṛcchra.
34) Caraka-samhita:
Caraka-saṃhitā is a key Ayurvedic text that provides foundational knowledge on health, including discussions on Sthaulya and its implications for sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra).
35) Margavarodha (Marga-avarodha):
Mārgāvarodha refers to obstruction in the body's channels, which can result from conditions such as Sthaulya. Such obstruction can impede sexual functioning (Kṛcchra), limiting healthy Vyavāya.
36) Accumulation (Accumulate, Accumulating):
Accumulation in the context of obesity (Sthaulya) relates to the excessive buildup of Medas, which can subsequently lead to difficulties (Kṛcchra) in sexual functions.
37) Daurgandhya:
Daurgandhya refers to bad odor which can occur in individuals with obesity (Sthaulya). This negative attribute can influence sexual desire and engagement, contributing to Kṛcchra during Vyavāya.
38) Discussion:
Discussion in this context relates to the analysis of findings regarding the sexual health of obese individuals. It emphasizes the need to understand the interplay between obesity (Sthaulya) and Kṛcchra in order to develop effective interventions.
39) Depression:
Depression is a psychological state that can be exacerbated by obesity (Sthaulya) and is linked to decreased sexual desire and Kṛcchra, impacting one's ability to engage in a satisfying sexual relationship.
40) Sweating (Sweat):
Sweating denotes the body's physiological response, which can be exacerbated in individuals with Sthaulya. The associated discomfort may influence sexual desire and contribute to Kṛcchra during sexual acts.
41) Avarana:
Avarana refers to obstruction, particularly relevant in the context of Sthaulya and how the accumulation of Medas can lead to physiological blockages causing Kṛcchra during sexual activity.
42) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakṣaṇa signifies symptoms or signs indicative of health conditions. Identifying Lakṣaṇa associated with Sthaulya helps in understanding its impact on sexual function (Kṛcchra).
43) Anxiety:
Anxiety is an emotional state that can affect desire and performance in sexual contexts (Vyavāya). Those struggling with obesity (Sthaulya) may experience increased anxiety, leading to Kṛcchra.
44) Srotas (Shrotas):
Srotas pertains to channels in the body through which vital substances flow. In instances of obesity (Sthaulya), imbalances can lead to blockages (Mārgāvarodha) affecting sexual function, resulting in Kṛcchra.
45) Pipasa:
Pipāsā signifies thirst, an indication of body's requirements. Elevated Pipāsā due to obesity (Sthaulya) can correlate with discomfort and lead to sexual dysfunction (Kṛcchra), impacting sexual activity.
46) Medhra:
Meḍhra represents the male reproductive organ. The condition of Meḍhra can be influenced by factors such as Sthaulya, leading to Kṛcchra and impacting sexual performance.
47) Reason:
[see source text or glossary: #Reason#]
48) Thirst:
Thirst symbolizes a basic physiological need that can be exaggerated in individuals with obesity. Increased thirst (Pipāsā) may correlate with discomfort and influence sexual function, leading to Kṛcchra.
49) Kapha:
Kapha is another dosha in Ayurveda associated with the structure and fluid balance of the body. Alterations in Kapha due to obesity can impact overall health and sexual functions, leading to Kṛcchra.
50) Badha:
Bādhā refers to obstacles or impediments in bodily functions. In the context of Kṛcchra, the Bādhā caused by obesity (Sthaulya) can result in significant challenges during sexual activities.
51) Marga:
Mārga denotes the pathways in the body relevant to the flow of substances. The Mārga being obstructed due to Sthaulya can lead to Kṛcchra and complications during Vyavāya.
52) Sveda:
Sveda refers to sweating as a physiological response, which may increase in individuals with Sthaulya. The associated discomfort can reduce desire, leading to Kṛcchra in sexual engagements.
53) Deha:
Deha denotes the body in Ayurveda, representing the physical state impacting health. Conditions such as Sthaulya directly affect the Deha, which consequently influences sexual health and leads to Kṛcchra.
54) Bala:
Bala signifies strength or vitality. Obesity (Sthaulya) may impair Bala, leading to weakened abilities, which can negatively affect sexual engagement (Vyavāya) and cause Kṛcchra.
55) Cala:
Cala indicates movement or mobility, which can be hampered by excess weight in obesity (Sthaulya). The lack of Cala may create barriers to engaging fully in sexual encounters (Kṛcchra).
56) Vaha:
Vāha refers to bearing or carrying within Ayurveda. The functions of Vāha can be impaired due to conditions such as obesity (Sthaulya), affecting sexual performance and resulting in Kṛcchra.
Other Health Sciences Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Sexual dysfunction in obesity: An observational study validation.’. Further sources in the context of Health Sciences might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Sthaulya, Obesity, Statistical analysis, Ayurvedic literature, Age-group, Sexual dysfunction, Inclusion criteria, Exclusion criteria, Erectile Dysfunction, International index of erectile function, Body mass index, Outpatient department, Chronic disorder, Waist hip ratio, Health hazard, Male patient, Multidimensional scale.