Human sexuality is an integral part of our existence, a vital aspect of humanity and an important determinant of health status. Aside from reproduction, sexual behaviour serves other important functions such as fostering intimacy and as a source of pleasure.
The complex interplay of physiological and psychological processes that make up sexuality can be affected by the presence of chronic disease.
A review of the medical and research literature highlights several negative effects of Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) on sexual development and function in men such as delayed sexual maturation, sex hormone disturbances, priapism (persistent painful erection usually requiring medical attention), erection problems and reduced fertility. At present there is no information available for sufferers or others with an interest in SCD on this aspect of the disease other than the limited information to be found in medical texts which does not reach a lay audience.
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