Prevalence and Diagnosis of Sexual Dysfunction in People with Epilepsy

Even though sexual dysfunction occurs in about half of people with epilepsy (PWE), it is mostly under-reported, under-recognized, and under-treated. Sexual dysfunctions are more common in patients with uncontrolled epilepsy, frequent seizures, and those receiving enzyme-inducing antiseizure medicines (ASMs). The presence of underlying anxiety or depression is associated with a higher frequency of sexual dysfunction in PWE. Even though the evidence is limited, the newer and non-enzyme-inducing ASMs do not largely cause sexual dysfunction. A multidisciplinary and multipronged approach is required for the comprehensive evaluation and management of sexual dysfunction in PWE.