The Effect of Behcet’s Disease on Female and Male Sexual Functions

Abstract

Background: Behcet’s disease (BD) is a chronic disease with adverse effects on sexual function and some likely effects on marital satisfaction, thereby posing some problems in family dynamics. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the effects of BD on sexual function in females and males and determine the relationship between the clinical manifestations of BD and sexual function. Methods: Fifty-one patients with BD and 50 healthy controls were included in this study. Inclusion criteria were: being married, aged 18 - 55 years, being sexually active, and having sex during the past four weeks. Sexual function was assessed for the groups using the female sexual function index (FSFI) for women and the international index of erectile function (IIEF) for men. Results: Sexual dysfunctions were observed in 82.9% of the females with BD and 14.3% of the healthy females. The total score of sexual performance and its subscales were significantly lower in the female patients with BD than the controls. No significant difference was observed between the males with BD and the controls regarding the total score of the IIEF and its subscales. Conclusions: Sexual dysfunction in BD patients seems to pose a significant problem; hence, it is recommended to be assessed by physicians during routine examinations.