Association of body mass index on sexual function in women with endometriosis: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and sexual function, measured by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), in women with endometriosis, adjusting for the number of endometriosis symptoms. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an anonymous online survey distributed via social media. A total of 1,586 women with endometriosis participated. BMI was categorized as 30 kg/m². Sexual function was assessed using the FSFI questionnaire, with a cutoff score of 30 kg/m² linked to lower FSFI scores. BMI > 30 kg/m² was significantly correlated with lower FSFI in women with seven endometriosis symptoms (p for interaction = 0.010). CONCLUSION: BMI is significantly correlated with sexual function in women with endometriosis, with both low and high BMI negatively correlating FSFI scores. The association was stronger in women with a higher symptom burden. These findings highlight the need for a multidisciplinary approach integrating metabolic, hormonal, and psychological interventions to improve sexual health among women with endometriosis. Further longitudinal research is needed to explore causality and potential interventions.