Abstract: SA-PO1046
Fertility, Sexual Function, and Endothelial Health in Premenopausal Women with Kidney Diseases
Session Information
- Women's Health and Kidney Diseases
October 26, 2024 | Location: Exhibit Hall, Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Category: Women's Health and Kidney Diseases
- 2200 Women's Health and Kidney Diseases
Authors
- Lobo, Angie S., University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
- Vaughan, Lisa E., Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
- Garovic, Vesna D., Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
- Kattah, Andrea G., Mayo Clinic Minnesota, Rochester, Minnesota, United States
Background
Women with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) face reproductive health challenges, including reduced fertility, sexual dysfunction, and increased pregnancy risks. This study examined changes in sex hormones with CKD progression and their correlation with sexual function.
Methods
This study recruited women aged 18-51 with CKD stages 3b-5 from nephrology clinics and dialysis units. Exclusions included active pregnancy, menopause, prior hysterectomy/bilateral oophorectomy, or hormonal contraceptive/therapy use. Demographics, clinical characteristics, female sexual function index (FSFI) surveys, and hormone levels were collected at enrollment. Comparisons across CKD stages used Kruskal-Wallis or Chi-square tests, and associations between sex hormones and sexual function were evaluated using Spearman’s correlation coefficients.
Results
Thirty-eight subjects were enrolled in the trial (8 in CKD stage 3b, 10 in CKD stage 4, and 20 in CKD stage 5/5D). Patient characteristics are detailed in Figure 1. Patients in more advanced CKD stages had significantly higher blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and prolactin levels, and lower hemoglobin levels, compared to those in CKD stage 3b (p<0.05 for all). Significant negative correlations existed between prolactin levels and desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm and total FSFI score (P<0.05 for all, data not shown).
Conclusion
This study highlights major reproductive health challenges in women with advanced CKD, including progressive hormonal imbalances. Women in later stages of CKD had higher levels of BUN and prolactin, and lower hemoglobin levels, indicating more severe disease and its impact on reproductive health. Further research is needed to develop effective strategies to improve the quality of life for women with CKD.
Funding
- Other NIH Support