Scoping review: Sexual dysfunction in people with epilepsy.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Sexual Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Epilepsy is frequently associated with comorbidities that diminish the quality of life for people with epilepsy (PWE).
• Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a significant comorbidity impacting PWE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on sexual dysfunction in epilepsy.
• To identify gaps in knowledge regarding the prevalence, types, and contributing factors of SD in PWE.
• To examine current epilepsy care management strategies and treatment facilitators/barriers for SD.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across major databases (Embase, Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed).
• Searched terms included "sexual dysfunction," "sexual problems," "sexual behaviour," and "erectile dysfunction" in relation to epilepsy.
• Included English-language articles published between 2000 and 2023.

Main Results:

• Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in people with epilepsy.
• Multiple factors are associated with SD, which affects men and women differently.
• Limited evidence supports available treatments for SD in PWE, and healthcare professional education on SD is insufficient.

Conclusions:

• Sexual problems are a common issue for people with epilepsy.
• Healthcare providers should consider drug-induced sexual problems, which significantly affect quality of life.
• There is a need for established treatment guidelines, further research on treatments, and enhanced education for healthcare providers regarding SD in epilepsy.