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Meta-analysis shows increased risk of female sexual dysfunction in women with systemic lupus erythematosusWomen with lupus face a much higher risk of sexual health issues

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Key Takeaway
Note the significantly increased risk of female sexual dysfunction among women with systemic lupus erythematosus.

This meta-analysis synthesized data regarding the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The analysis included data from 1,511 women with SLE and 2,246 healthy controls to assess the relationship between the condition and sexual health outcomes.

The pooled prevalence of FSD among women with SLE was 58.8% (95% CI, 0.461–0.716). When compared to healthy controls, women with SLE demonstrated a significantly increased risk of FSD, with an odds ratio of 2.64 (95% CI, 1.27–5.47).

The authors report a significant association between SLE and an increased risk of FSD. While the data highlights a high prevalence of dysfunction within this patient population, the study focuses on the association rather than establishing direct causality.

For clinicians, these findings underscore the importance of assessing sexual health in patients with SLE. Identifying the high prevalence of FSD may assist in more comprehensive, patient-centered care for women managing this chronic condition.

A large review of many studies looked at how lupus affects women's sexual health. By comparing over 1,500 women with lupus to over 2,200 healthy women, researchers found a clear link between the disease and sexual health problems.

The study found that nearly 59% of women with lupus deal with sexual dysfunction. This is a very high number compared to the general population. The researchers found that women with this condition are more than twice as likely to face these challenges.

While the study shows a strong link, it does not prove that lupus directly causes these issues. Other factors like medication or the stress of managing a chronic illness might play a role. However, the connection between the disease and these health changes is very significant.

Understanding these risks is important for doctors. It helps them provide better support and care for women managing lupus. Talking openly about these symptoms can help patients get the help they need to improve their quality of life.

What this means for you:
Women with lupus have a much higher chance of experiencing sexual health challenges than healthy women.

Study Details

Study typeMeta analysis
EvidenceLevel 1
PublishedMay 2026
View Original Abstract ↓
BackgroundThe prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is inconsistent, and whether SLE is a risk factor for FSD among women remains controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to estimate the prevalence of FSD among women with SLE and further explore the association between SLE and FSD.MethodsLiterature on the prevalence of FSD among women with SLE was retrieved from PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase databases from inception to July 1, 2025. The pooled prevalence was calculated using a random-effects model for the meta-analysis. The Cochran Q and I2 tests were employed to examine heterogeneity among the studies, while subgroup analyses and meta-regression were conducted to identify potential sources of heterogeneity.ResultsThis meta-analysis included 13 studies involving 1,511 women with SLE and 2,246 healthy controls. The pooled prevalence of FSD among women with SLE was 58.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.461–0.716). Compared with the healthy control group, women with SLE had a significantly increased risk of FSD (odds ratio, 2.64; 95% CI, 1.27–5.47).ConclusionThis systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated a high prevalence of FSD among women with SLE and a significant association between SLE and an increased risk of FSD.Systematic review registrationhttps://inplasy.com/inplasy-2025-7-0092/,identifier 202570092.
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