Sexual Dysfunction in Partner of Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis

Evaluation of Sexual Satisfaction and Sexual Dysfunction in Partner of Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis

The adverse effects of rheumatologic diseases, especially Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), on sexual functions are known. The causes of sexual dysfunction in rheumatologic diseases are due to factors such as pain, weakness, fatigue, stiffness, functional disability, anxiety, depression, hormonal deficiency, drug use, decreased libido and poor body image. Depending on these factors, sexual intercourse and frequency of sexual intercourse may decrease. Sexual dysfunction may be seen in AS due to physical and emotional problems caused by the disease.

There are many studies in the literature that determine sexual satisfaction and sexual dysfunction in individuals with AS and compare individuals with AS to healthy individuals . In the light of these studies, the investigators thought that the sexual function of partner of individuals with AS may also be affected negatively. In the literature, no previous study examines the sexual function of partner of individuals with AS. Therefore, the aim was to determine the sexual function of partner of individuals with AS and to compare with healthly adults of the same sex.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being diagnosed with AS for individuals with AS,
• No additional disease (comorbid and psychiatric disease, hypothyroidism, hypopituitarism, hypogonadism or hyperprolactinemia)
• Having a partner (relationship status in a monogamous sexual relationship),
• Not smoking and drinking,
• Non-AS partner have not been diagnosed with AS and their partner is AS.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Overweight or obesity (BMI <28 kg / m2)
• Having had a pelvic injury, urological or gynecological operation in the last 3 months
• Hypogonadism; penile abnormalities such as hypospadias, congenital curvature or Peyronie's disease with preserved penis stiffness
• Prostatic disorder
• Use of drugs that may affect erectile function (steroids, antihistamines, ß-blockers or SSRIs)