Psychosocial Development, Sexuality and Quality of Life in Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Uçar A., Mengen E., AYCAN Z.

JCRPE Journal of Clinical Research in Pediatric Endocrinology, vol.17, pp.54-59, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 17
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.4274/jcrpe.galenos.2024.2024-6-11-s
  • Journal Name: JCRPE Journal of Clinical Research in Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, CINAHL, MEDLINE, Directory of Open Access Journals, TR DİZİN (ULAKBİM)
  • Page Numbers: pp.54-59
  • Keywords: Congenital adrenal hyperplasia, psychosocial development, quality of life, sexuality
  • Çukurova University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Exposure of the developing brain to androgens during fetal life is known to affect sexual development, including postnatal sex and sexual orientation. However, these relationships are both multifactorial and unpredictable. It is generally assumed that congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) has greater effects in women than in men due to non-physiological adrenal androgen excess. Outcome information on patients with CAH often indicates poor quality of life, general maladjustment, problems with sexuality, and decreased fertility. With advances in medical treatment and surgery and changes in societal perspectives on gender and sexuality, there is a need for greater consideration of quality of life factors, including socialization and sexuality.