Sexual dysfunction in female patients with acne vulgaris - A questionnaire-based survey

Background Acne vulgaris is one of the most common cutaneous chronic diseases. The disease itself or the side effects of medications can play a crucial role in the development of sexual dysfunction. Aim Assessment of the occurrence of sexual dysfunction in female patients with acne vulgaris. Methods The study included 82 women diagnosed with acne vulgaris and 133 female controls without skin diseases. The sexual health of the subjects was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) via an online anonymous questionnaire. Additional information regarding patients' medical history was analysed. Results There was no statistically significant difference in the total FSFI score between patients and controls (p > 0.05). Patients had significantly higher scores than controls in the satisfaction domain (p < 0.05). There was a positive correlation between the question about the subjective effect of skin condition on sexual desire and the likelihood of sexual dysfunction in the FSFI (p < 0.05, r = 0.33). Patients using retinoids had a slightly reduced FSFI (p = 0.44), which correlated negatively with retinoid use (p = 0.0428, r = -0.4257). Women receiving oral retinoids had downward trends in the satisfaction and pain domains (p = 0.41 and p = 0.198, respectively). Retinoid treatment was negatively correlated with the overall FSFI lubrication domain score (p = 0.0423, r = -0.4268). In addition, there was also a negative correlation between retinoid therapy and the overall FSFI orgasm domain score (p = 0.0024, r = -0.6014). Limitations The inability to evaluate the severity of acne vulgaris; the relatively small sample size; no matching of cases and controls with respect to age; and the lack of physician-confirmed data regarding the effectiveness of the administered treatment. Conclusions Some female patients with acne vulgaris may be at higher risk of sexual dysfunction. Decreased self-esteem and the general psychological burden of this dermatosis may negatively influence sexual functioning, so it is important to pay attention to this aspect. Patients who need help in this area should be referred to appropriate specialists.