The sexuality of schizophrenics is a neglected dimension. The majority of schizophrenics experience a progressive deterioration in their social and sociosexual functioning. This deterioration often starts before the first psychotic episode and would be one of the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. All type of antipsychotics can lead to sexual dysfunctions. Impaired sexual functioning is believed to negatively impact treatment compliance as well as the quality of life.

The frequency of sexual dysfunctions in patients taking classic antipsychotics is not known. This study attends to ascertain the level of sexual dysfunction in such patients.

The level of sexual dysfunction was assessed in 41 patients taking classic antipsychotic medication and 28 normal controls. All the participants were physically healthy. We examined the following complaints or symptoms loss of libido, anorgasmia, impotence, premature ejaculation, galactorrhea, gynecomastia for males; amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, dyspaurenia, galactorrhea, loss of libido and anorgasmia for females.

There were a significantly higher proportion of persons with sexual dysfunctions in the schizophrenic group compared with the normal controls. There were no significant differences in the demographic characteristics (age and gender) between the 2 groups. Male patient had normal levels of libido but were highly likely to report erectile and ejaculatory dysfunctions.

Patient taking conventional antipsychotic medication report high levels of sexual dysfunction. The high level of sexual dysfunctions indicated that clinicians should monitor and openly discuss these issues with patients in order to improve overall satisfaction and adherence to treatment.