Sexual stimulants and their effects on women of reproductive age group in Kano, northern Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction:Sexual stimulants are preparations used for increasing pleasure during sexual intercourse. The study sought to determine the use and effect of such preparations on women of reproductive age group in Kano, northern Nigeria.Materials and Methods:A self administered questionnaire was used to obtain information from 500 women to determine if they use sexual stimulants and the effects of the drugs on them (if any).Results:There were 423 women that responded. Majority 228 (53.9%) of them use sexual stimulants. Most (47.4%) of them were between the ages of 21 and 30 years, married (85.5%), multiparous (46.9%), and attained tertiary education (58.3%). About 39.9% of the respondents benefited from increased sexual pleasure and satisfaction, 20.2% obtained extra favors from their husbands while 29.9% did not benefit anything from the preparations. About 37.3% developed complications, which included coital laceration (5.9%), copious vaginal discharge (16.5%), vulval itching and rashes (17.5%), lower abdominal pains (14.1%), painful intercourse (16.5%), vaginal dryness (13.0%), and irregular menses (5.9%).Conclusion:A large number of women use sexual stimulants mainly sold by traditional healers. There is need for setting up more orthodox care for sexual dysfunction. There is need for more community health education on female sexual dysfunction.