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Impaired sexual function in women with systemic sclerosis: a cross-sectional study
A A Schouffoer1, J van der Marel, M M Ter Kuile
1Department of Rheumatology, C-01-Q, Leiden University Medical Center, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands. A.A.Schouffoer@LUMC.nl
Arthritis and Rheumatism
|October 31, 2009
Summary
Women with systemic sclerosis (SSc) experience worse sexual function and more distress compared to healthy individuals. Marital dissatisfaction and depressive symptoms significantly impact sexual health in SSc patients.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Sexual Medicine
- Psychosomatic Medicine
Background:
- Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting connective tissues.
- Sexual dysfunction and distress are common but under-researched issues in women with SSc.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare sexual functioning and distress in women with SSc versus healthy controls.
- To identify associations between SSc disease characteristics and sexual health outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 69 women with SSc and 58 age-matched healthy controls.
- Utilized validated questionnaires including the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS).
- Assessed anxiety, depression, overall health, and disease-specific impact (HAQ).
Main Results:
- Women with SSc reported significantly lower FSFI scores (overall and subscales for lubrication, orgasm, arousal, pain) and higher FSDS scores.
- Longer disease duration and marital dissatisfaction were linked to lower sexual function in SSc.
- Depressive symptoms and antidepressant use correlated with sexual distress in SSc patients.
Conclusions:
- Women with SSc exhibit significantly impaired sexual functioning and increased sexual distress compared to controls.
- Marital distress and depressive symptoms are key associated factors for sexual dysfunction and distress in SSc.
- Routine screening for sexual health and depressive symptoms is recommended for all SSc patients.
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