Sexual functions in women with focal epilepsy. A preliminary study

Abstract

We analyzed sexual function in 29 women suffering from focal epilepsy using the Female Sexual Function Index, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory and a battery of laboratory tests were performed to find possible correlations and differences. A total FSFI score lower than the predefined cut-off score was found in 20.7% women and the presence of at least one subtype of sexual dysfunction was found in 51.7% of them. The most frequent dysfunction was lack of lubrication, which occurred in 34.5% of patients. A higher depression score was significantly correlated with a worse total score of Female Sexual Function Index and with decreased score of lubrication, satisfaction and pain. Patients who were seizure-free had better total score of Female Sexual Function Index and score of lubrication, orgasm and pain in comparison to patients who were not seizure-free. A higher anxiety scale was correlated only with lower satisfaction. We found a statistically significant correlation of reduced desire and use of carbamazepine and with lower dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate and free-androgene index. Reduced arousal was also correlated with the use of carbamazepine and lower dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate. Patients with a combination of complex partial and generalized tonic-clonic seizures had a worse total sexual function score and pain score than those with complex partial and generalized tonic-clonic seizures only. Sexual dysfunctions are relatively common problems in epileptic women with focal epilepsy. Prospective studies, including a control group, are needed.