(148) Female Sexual Dysfunction in Chinese Women: A Narrative Review on Prevalence, Risk Factors and Treatment Options

Abstract Introduction Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a common but underrecognized condition worldwide. While FSD has been increasingly studied in Western contexts, research among Chinese women remains limited and shows wide variability. In China, sexuality is strongly influenced by cultural and social contexts. Confucian values of chastity and family harmony, religious teachings emphasizing sexual moderation, and government policies historically focused on reproduction have contributed to stigma and underreporting. At the same time, rapid social change and shifting gender roles, between traditional expectations of passivity and modern aspirations for autonomy, create unique challenges in how women perceive and manage FSD. Objective This review summarizes cultural influences as well as epidemiologic evidence on the prevalence, risk factors, and treatment options of FSD in Chinese women, to promote a better understanding of their challenges to improve health care delivery. Methods A systematic search was conducted across PubMed to identify studies on female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among Chinese women. Search terms included combinations of “female sexual dysfunction,” “sexual health,” “sexual problems,” and specific subdomains (eg, desire, arousal, orgasmic, and pain disorders), paired with “Chinese women” and “China.” Additional studies were identified by manually screening reference lists. Only peer-reviewed articles reporting prevalence, risk factors, diagnostic assessments, or interventions were included. Results Reported prevalence of FSD in China ranged from 29.7% to 63.3%. While Chinese women are overall more reluctant to admit sexual difficulties or visit sexual dysfunction clinics, there were large variations across social groups and regions. Consistently identified risk factors included age, menopause, chronic illness, and childbirth history. Unique to Chinese populations were strong associations with partner-related factors including dissatisfaction with spouse’s sexual ability, poor marital affection, and rural residence. Han ethnicity was also associated with increased sexual dysfunction. Psychological comorbidities were less emphasized compared to western population. In China, alternative medicine treatment options such as traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture are widely practiced and accepted. Nevertheless, their clinical efficacy remains uncertain and requires further investigation. Conclusions Chinese women experience sexual dysfunction patterns similar to Western women but remain a heterogeneous group with unique cultural, social, and relational risk factors. Religion, cultural values, government policies, and evolving gender roles strongly shape how women perceive, report, and seek care for sexual difficulties. Having the cultural awareness that acknowledges these perspectives is essential to reduce stigma, facilitate open communication, and deliver effective, personalized treatment. Disclosure No.