Effect of folic acid on the sexual function of postmenopausal women: a triple-blind randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Abstract Background There are reports of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women, and several treatment recommendations are available. Aim To investigate the effect of folic acid on postmenopausal women’s sexual function. Methods This triple-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted in Tehran, Iran, in 2020. A sample of 100 postmenopausal women was recruited from comprehensive health centers affiliated with the Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences. Eligible women were randomly assigned to receive folic acid (5 mg) or placebo on an empty stomach every day for 8 weeks. Women were assessed at 3 time points: baseline and 4 and 8 weeks after the intervention. Outcome Sexual function was the main outcome, as measured by the Female Sexual Function Index. Results The mean ± SD age of participants in the folic acid and placebo groups was 53.2 ± 3.84 and 54.4 ± 4.05 years, respectively (P = .609). The results obtained from mixed effects analysis of variance revealed a statistically significant difference between baseline and posttreatment scores and the interaction between time and group for desire, orgasm, satisfaction, arousal, pain, and total sexual function score, with the folic acid group improving more than control group. Lubrication was the only domain that showed no significant difference for the interaction between time and group. Clinical Implications Folic acid may beneficially affect sexual function in postmenopausal women. Strengths and Limitations Strengths include the novelty of the subject, the triple-blind design, the block randomization, the administration of a standard scale for sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index), and the affordability and availability of folic acid. This study was conducted with a small sample size and short follow-up time; therefore, interpretation of the results requires great caution. Conclusion The findings suggest that folic acid possibly improves sexual function in postmenopausal women. Larger studies are needed to confirm the findings. Trial Registration IRCT20150128020854N8; August 2, 2020. Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials; https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/48920/view.