Kyokusiima Naome Kapere, Maud Kamatenesi Mugisha, Otwine Anne Tweheyo and Waisindye Noah

In Uganda, studies have indicated that up to 52% of the sexually active population aged 18 to 70yrs experience different sexual dysfunctions and it is predicted that the prevalence of dysfunctions will increase dramatically by 2050. The study investigated community perceptions about the use of traditional medicine among people experiencing sexual dysfunctions in Greater Mbarara, western Uganda.

The study aimed to examine the common sexual dysfunctions which exist among people, identifying the common beliefs associated with the use of traditional medicine remedy for treatment of sexual dysfunction, carry out an Ethno-botanical documentation of commonly used herbal medicines in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions and determine the relationship between the use of traditional medicine remedy and treatment of sexual dysfunctions among people.

Using a cross-sectional survey design, data was captured from a sample of 103 respondents through questionnaire approach. The respondents were selected using both purposive criteria and simple random technique. Data was analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive statistics for quantitative data and inferences from qualitative data.

Different sexual dysfunctions existed and were common among both men and women in the society. Commonest among men were; pain during penetration, erectile disorder, short erections, lack of sexual arousal and premature ejaculation. Whereas those among women included; lack of sexual arousal, lack of orgasm, atrophic vaginitis, short orgasms and dyspareunia. It was established that most people shy away from the use of herbal remedies for treatment of sexual dysfunctions because of the commonly held beliefs associated with the use of herbal medicine. Most used herbs by men included Acacia abysinica Scheele, Dichrostachy scinerea L, Coffea arabica, Citropsis articulata, Mondia whiteii Skeels, Impetiens sp, Rumex abyssinicus, Allium cepa L. , Albizia coriaria welw and main mode of administration was oral using water, food, tea and porridge. Minor modes of administration included nasal inhalation of fumes.

The use of traditional herbs is significantly associated with the treatment of sex dysfunctions for both men and women however, there’s need for collaboration between health professionals and traditional medicine practitioners to further identify and scientifically test on the efficacy of the identified medicinal plants being used by targeted communities in management of sexual dysfunction among women and men.

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