KATHMANDU: A new national survey has revealed a concerning prevalence of sexual dysfunction in Nepal, affecting 72% of men and 67% of women over the age of 30.
The findings were made public on Monday during a program organized in Kathmandu by the Family Welfare Division under the Department of Health Services and Solid Nepal (Society for Local Integrated Development Nepal).
This is the first comprehensive survey on sexual dysfunction in the country. Lead researcher Dr. Khem Bahadur Karki stated that among the men surveyed, 5% reported severe dysfunction, while 32% suffered from mild symptoms.
Alarmingly, around 84% of men reported dissatisfaction from sexual intercourse, and 92% of both men and women said they lacked sexual desire.
In women, 94% experienced a lack of arousal, 86% faced vaginal dryness, and approximately 66% reported pain during intercourse.
Dr. Karki explained that over 90% of respondents identified psychological factors—such as stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma—as the primary contributors to their condition. Provinces with lower development indicators, particularly Madhesh (73%) and Karnali (71%), reported the highest prevalence of sexual dysfunction.
He further noted that unhealthy lifestyle habits—busy schedules, separation from partners, marital conflict, and work-life imbalance—also play a significant role. Physical causes, including infections and chronic illnesses in partners, were also cited.
The study found higher rates of sexual dysfunction among obese individuals compared to those of normal weight. Additionally, 68% of those who did not consume fruits and vegetables regularly reported dysfunction, versus 65% among those who did.
Those who consumed at least 400 grams of fruits and vegetables daily reported lower rates of dysfunction.
Tobacco and alcohol use were also major risk factors. Among long-term tobacco users who had quit, 80% still experienced symptoms. Alcohol consumption was linked to a 69% dysfunction rate, compared to 59% among non-drinkers.
The data showed a dysfunction rate of 68% among those who married before 18, and 61% among those who married after age 25. Individuals with diabetes or hypertension also showed higher rates of dysfunction.
At the launch event, National Planning Commission member Dr. R.P. Bichha called the findings a wake-up call for Nepal’s public health sector. He announced that the Commission would work on new policies to address sexual health challenges.
Similarly, Dean of the Institute of Medicine at Tribhuvan University, Dr. Mohanraj Sharma, stressed the need for government intervention, while Dr. Vivek Kumar Lal from the Family Welfare Division said sexual dysfunction affects both reproductive and mental health and will now be prioritized in national programs.
Dr. Karki recommended initiating discussions about responsible sexual behavior and dysfunction prevention in local health groups, mothers’ groups, and consumer forums. He also urged the establishment of multi-specialist clinics and mental health counseling centers within hospitals and health institutions to improve access to sexual health services.
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