- 作者：Silvia de Vincentiis ; Marí ; lia Vieira Febrô ; nio ; Cló ; vis Artur Almeida da Silva ; Maria Ignez Saito ; Albertina Duarte Takiuti ; Kette Dualibi Ramos Valente
- 关键词：Adolescents ; Epilepsy ; Chronic diseases ; Sexual behavior ; Sexual function
- 刊名：Epilepsy & Behavior
- 出版年：2008
- 出版时间：November 2008
- 年：2008
- 卷：13
- 期：4
- 页码：703-706
- 全文大小：130 K
ObjectivesIn adults with epilepsy it is well known that the epileptic syndrome, seizure frequency and antiepileptic drug use may influence sexual function and behavior. However, knowledge acquired with adult populations has been extrapolated to teenagers, based on the supposition that these patients are influenced by similar factors. This study aimed to evaluate aspects related to sexuality obtained from female adolescents with epilepsy.Methods
We carried out a prospective study of 35 female adolescents, with epilepsy, with ages from 10 to 20 years, and epileptic syndromes diagnosed according to ILAE criteria (1989). Information on sexual function and behavior of adolescents with epilepsy was evaluated by use of a standard questionnaire. Exclusion criteria were lack of menarche, previous endocrine or chronic clinical disorders, and moderate to severe mental retardation.
Results
No differences were observed between the age at first sexual intercourse, sexual activity, libido and orgasm of adolescents with epilepsy when compared to controls. Epilepsy clinical variables such as age of onset, duration and severity had no significant relationship with distinct aspects of sexual function and behavior.
Conclusion
Adolescents with epilepsy represent a special patient group because, even with their chronic disorder, they have an active sexual life, despite the severity of their disorder. Therefore, aspects related to sexuality require special attention by health professionals when attending to adolescents with epilepsy.