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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate sexual and reproductive functions in men with Down«SQ»s syndrome. Background Down«SQ»s syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs due to an extra copy of chromosome 21. Affected children show characteristic features and associated diseases in different body systems. All of these diseases have received much interest of researchers and can be managed. However, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), the sexual development, associated congenital anomalies of the genital organs, sexuality, and reproductive disorders of these people have not gained much attention. Patients and methods A case-control study was carried out on 21 Down«SQ»s syndrome male patients (patient group), aged 21-28 years. Another 21 healthy, age-matched volunteers were included as the control group. Full sexual history was obtained from all participants , including the age at puberty, desire of marriage and parenting children, practice of masturbation, and attraction to the other sex. Follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, prolactin, total testosterone, and estradiol levels were measured and the BMI was evaluated. Results Patients included in the study entered puberty and became fully sexually mature, but later than their healthy peers. More than half (57.1%) of Down«SQ»s syndrome patients were sexually active, masturbated, were attracted to the other sex, and had the desire to marry. Down«SQ»s syndrome patients showed a higher BMI. Follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and prolactin levels were significantly higher in Down«SQ»s syndrome patients compared with the controls. They showed a lower serum total testosterone. The serum estradiol was normal. Conclusion According to our results, some men with Down«SQ»s syndrome have normal sexual development. They can marry and father children.

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