Sexual satisfaction and self-esteem in women with acne

Background A significant number of problems related to mental and social functioning is a common occurrence in patients with acne. Aims The aim of our study was to determine how acne affects self-esteem and sexual satisfaction in the affected women. Patients/Methods The study was conducted among 90 women, aged 18-51 years (mean 30.29 +/- 7.10), diagnosed with acne. Demographic data, medical history and information concerning their sexual life were obtained from all study participants. After dermatological assessment of lesion location and severity, all subjects completed the following questionnaires: Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Sexual Self-Esteem Inventory, Body Attitudes Questionnaire, and Whitley Sexual Satisfaction Inventory. Results Two factors-lesion severity and self-assessment of the body-proved to shape the sexual satisfaction of women, but the influence turned out to be mediated through self-esteem. Conclusion Acne proves to play an important negative role in female sexuality and satisfaction.