A first Tunisian pilot study investigating sexual dysfunctions in patients with hemophilia.

Abstract

Background: Little data is actually available on sexual health problems with sexual activity, and intimacy (sexual difficulty) in patients with hemophilia (PWH). We conducted this study to determine the prevalence of sexual difficulty in PWH and to determine factors associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). Methods: Based on The International Index of Erectile Function 15 (IIEF-15) questionnaire, we evaluated ED and other sexual problems in PWH. Results: Forty-Three (43) PWH were included in our study. The mean age was 33 years. Fourteen (32.6%) respondents were identified as having severe disease. The majority (93%) suffered from erectile dysfunction. Lack of desire and orgasm was observed in 76.7% of cases each. Lack of sexual satisfaction and global satisfaction were noted in 83.7% of cases and 88.4% of cases, respectively. Among PWH, older age was associated with ED. Conclusion: Our study illustrates the need for programs to assess and improve the sexual health of PWH in comprehensive hemophilia care.