OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the reproductive health of female adolescents with Juvenile Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (JSLE) and compare them with a control group. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The demographic data, sexual function, gynecologic exam, menstrual cycle, cervicovaginal cytology, clinical characteristics, and treatment of 52 female patients with JSLE were evaluated. The control group was composed of 52 women matched for age. RESULTS: The mean age of patients with JSLE was similar to that of the control group (16.7 ± 1.94 versus 16.13 ± 2.16 years, P = 0.92). The mean age of menarche was higher in JSLE patients (12.82 ± 1.62 versus 11.55 ± 1.45 years, P = 0.0004). The frequency of sex activity was significantly lower in patients with JSLE (23% versus 60%, P = 0.0003). In contrast, the percentage of sexual dysfunction, reduced vaginal lubrication, decreased performance, reduced orgasm, and dissatisfaction with one's sex life were significantly higher in JSLE patents (58% versus 23%, P = 0.03; 50% versus 16%, P = 0.046; 58% versus 23%, P = 0.03; 50% versus 26%, P = 0.046, respectively). On the other hand, demographic data, pubertal changes, abnormalities in menstrual cycle, and cervicovaginal cytology were similar in JSLE patients and the control group (P > 0.05). Demographic data, pubertal changes, abnormalities in menstrual cycle, cervicovaginal cytology, disease activity, cumulative damage, and treatment did not differ between JSLE patients with and without sexual dysfunction (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: This is the first study to identify sexual dysfunction in female adolescents with JSLE. Sexuality-related aspects require special attention from health care professionals who treat adolescents with lupus.
reproductive health; sexual function; adolescent; hormone; juvenile systemic lupus erythematosus; female gender
