Sexual dysfunction in women with Sjögren’s syndrome: a cross-sectional observational study

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) and its association with clinical characteristics in female patients with Sjögren’s syndrome (SS). In this cross-sectional study, 158 female patients with SS admitted to the Department of Rheumatology and Immunology of three Grade-III Class-A hospitals in Beijing between January 2021 and December 2023 were included. The general clinical data, sexual function feelings, medication use, psychological status, and socioeconomic factors of the patients were collected with a standardised questionnaire and assessed. Of the 158 patients, 124 (78.5%) were diagnosed with FSD based on Female Sexual Function Index scores <26.5. The mean age and course of disease were significantly higher in the FSD group than in the non-FSD group (p < 0.05), with a higher proportion of patients aged ≥40 years in the former (71.8%) than the latter (11.8%). After adjusting for potential confounding factors, including medication use, psychological status and socioeconomic factors, the association between SS and FSD remained significant (p < 0.05). In the FSD group, decreased libido (79.0%), difficulty in sexual arousal (71.8%), difficulty in vaginal lubrication (66.1%), orgasmic disorder (77.4%), decreased sexual satisfaction (81.5%) and dyspareunia (75.0%) were commonly reported. The findings of this study suggest that early identification and intervention of FSD for female patients with SS is essential to improve their quality of life. Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) has been associated with a range of extraglandular manifestations, including fatigue, joint pain and neurologic disorders. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that women with SS experience a higher prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD), which can significantly impact their quality of life. This study provides empirical data on the prevalence and characteristics of FSD in women with SS, highlighting the specific areas of sexual function affected. By identifying FSD as a significant issue in women with SS, this study calls for increased awareness and recognition of sexual health in clinical practice. It may influence future research to develop and evaluate targeted interventions for FSD in patients with SS, potentially improving treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. Policymakers may consider the findings when formulating guidelines for the comprehensive care of patients with SS, ensuring that sexual health is included in the services provided.