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Subject Area

Pediatrics

Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objective The aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of psoriasis on sexual function in Egyptian women. Background Psoriasis has a significant effect on quality of life (QoL). Sexual life can also be affected, with sexual dysfunction being reported by 25–70% of patients. Patients and methods A case–control study was performed with a convenience sample of 300 participants, consisting of patients with a diagnosis of psoriasis (psoriasis group) treated at the psoriasis unit, Al-Houd Al-Marsoud Hospital, and healthy volunteers (healthy control group). Results The results revealed that the mean score for women with genital lesion was 12.4 ± 5.03, and the mean score for psoriatic women without genital lesion was 15.3 ± 5.8, with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.003). Moreover, we demonstrated that the overall scale of female sexual function index, except satisfaction, was lowered in women with genital lesion than those who do not have. Conclusion Psoriasis is a stigmatizing disease that impairs QoL and harms self-esteem through its effect on social relationships and self-perception, with a negative effect on physical, mental, and sexual health. The high prevalence of sexual dysfunction in our patients highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to the health of women with psoriasis beyond assessment of their skin condition and the extent of the disease, including other QoL issues and specifically sexual function.

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