Understanding health inequity through multiple minority stress theory

The prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among Iranian women who are not yet menopausal underscores the significance of this issue in the community. Discrimination, structural barriers, and limited access to material resources confer risks for inequity, as explained by multiple minority stress theory and intersectionality theory. Discrimination against Iranian women based on gender leads to cultural norms that stigmatize discussions about sexual health, making it difficult for them to seek help [13]. Structural barriers, such as inadequate sexual education in male-dominated societies, exacerbate sexual dysfunction and decrease sexual satisfaction. These factors operate through other inequities, such as economic hardship and rigid social norms, which amplify stress and negatively impact sexual health. Intersectionality reveals that overlapping marginalized identities, such as being an Iranian woman and having a lower socioeconomic status, compound these stresses. For instance, poor income and dissatisfaction with gender norms further decrease sexual satisfaction, as shown by research done by Afzali (2020)[3]. In some cases, factors like gender norms can become protective when gender equity is improved, leading to better sexual health outcomes. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for sexual healthcare providers aiming to promote equitable sexual well-being among Iranian women.