Investigation of menstrual disorders in systemic lupus erythematosus Patients

Abstract Background Persistent menstrual disorders are relatively common in patients with SLE, including hypermenorrhea, oligomenorrhea, amenorrhea, and temporary persistent amenorrhea. These failures are due to autoimmunity and medications, especially immunosuppressive agents. Materials and methods This cross-sectional pilot study was performed on all the SLE patients referred to our medical department who were eligible for participation. Venous blood samples were taken for FSH, LH, and anti-mullerian hormone measurement. Results 50 patients divided into two groups, 16–35 (46%) and 51 − 35 (54%), were included in the study. Among the patients, 82% used hydroxychloroquine, 80% prednisolone, 20% Azathioprine and 6% methotrexate. Dysmenorrhea was more common in the age group of 51 − 35 years, but there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. The frequency of the people using prednisolone was remarkably more than non-users (94.7% vs. 5.3%), with a significant relationship between the two groups; However, there was no significant difference between patients with polymenorrhagia and menorrhagia. Additionally, menstrual disorders were not significant in patients who received hydroxychloroquine and azathioprine and those who received no medications. Furthermore, the frequency distribution of the mentioned menstrual disorders was investigated according to the SLEDAI index. The average FSH, LH, and anti-mullerian hormone values had no statistical difference between the mild, moderate, and severe flare groups. Conclusion In conclusion, menstrual cycle disorders with dysmenorrhea dominant are probably related to the drugs used, especially prednisolone, by patients with SLE.