New York, Oct 28 (IANS): A common therapy to tackle obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) does not become a hindrance between the sheets, says a study, allaying fears of OSA patients who believe the therapy interferes with sex.

Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is somewhat common in patients with OSA who are often recommended to use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask to get rid of the ED symptoms.

The machine uses a constant flow of positive air pressure to ensure the wearer gets adequate oxygen.

"However, some patients may feel that the PAP interferes with foreplay and sex," the study said.

For their research, the team from Rosalind Franklin University in Chicago analysed 52 participants who were screened about their sex life, compliance of PAP use, body mass index (BMI), presence of ED and use of drugs like Viagra.

Results showed that when adjusting for all confounding variables, CPAP compliance does not predict sexual quality of life.

"It suggests that CPAP compliance does not impair sex life of patients with sleep apnea," said Mark Rosen, medical director of Rosalind Franklin University.

The article appeared in the journal Chest.