Investigation of the relationship between stigma, self-esteem, and sexual dysfunction in patients with opioid use disorder

Investigation of the relationship between stigma, self-esteem, and sexual dysfunction in patients with opioid use disorder INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The aim of our study is to investigate the relationship between stigma, self-esteem, and sexual dysfunction in patients diagnosed with opioid use disorder. METHODS: The study was conducted at the Sakarya Training and Research Hospital adult inpatient detoxification center, in the opioid clinic. A total of 104 patients diagnosed with opioid use disorder, who had been in remission for at least three months with combination treatment of buprenorphine-naloxone and who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were included in the study. The participants completed the following assessments: Sociodemographic data form, Addiction profile index, Substance craving scale, Opioid withdrawal scale, Rosenberg self- esteem scale, Stigma mechanisms scale for substance use, Arizona sexual experiences scale (ASEX), and the Golombok rust iventory of sexual satisfaction RESULTS: As a result of this study, a significant relationship was found between increased addiction severity, higher stigma, and sexual dysfunction. In other words, as addiction severity and stigma increase, sexual dysfunction also increases. No significant relationship was found between self-esteem and sexual dysfunction. CONCLUSION: The results of this study may contribute to the literature by showing that factors related to sexual function in individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder are associated not only with the severity of the disease but also with the perception of societal negative attitudes. Keywords: Opioid, self-esteem, sexual dysfunction, stigma