The effect of saffron on sexual dysfunction in women of reproductive age

Background & Aim: Sexual dysfunction is a common matter among women which has a significant effect on human’s life. Various methods have been evaluated for encountering and treatment of sexual dysfunction. Considering the effects of saffron and shortage of conducted studies in this field, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of saffron on sexual dysfunction in women of reproductive age. Methods & Materials: The present clinical trial was conducted on 69 women of 18 to 39 years old who referred to the health centers of the Arak University of Medical Sciences in 2013. Participants were selected using continuous sampling method and were randomly allocated into two groups of intervention and control. The intervention was performed as using saffron extract capsule for 8 weeks and comparing it to consumption of placebo capsules. The status of participants’ sexual performance was evaluated using Female Sexual Function Index before the intervention and four and eight weeks after the start of the intervention. Data were analyzed through SPSS software using chi square test, independent t-test and Cochrane test. Results: Results showed no significant difference between both groups regarding their sexual dysfunction at the beginning of the study. Comparing the two groups of intervention and control four weeks after the start of the intervention showed a significant difference between their excitement and desire. However, eight weeks after the start of the intervention, the difference between both groups regarding their total sexual dysfunction and all of its aspects except for lubrication and dyspareunia was statistically significant. Conclusion: Considering the effect of saffron on improvement of women’s sexual performance and also considering the safety of this herbal drug, saffron could be used for improvement of sexual performance in women of reproductive age.