Abstract - Gynecologic disorders in women with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

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Gynecologic disorders in women with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

J. McIntosh MD, T. Mallett MD, Jane D. Frahm PT, A.

MD and Mark I. MD

From the Division of Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology,

and the Departments of Molecular Biology and Pathology, Wayne State

University/Hutzel Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, USA

Abstract

Objective:

We characterized the population with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome with regard to

genital prolapse, urinary incontinence, and other gynecologic disorders.

Methods:

Forty-one adult women who had registered for a first-ever Ehlers-Danlos

multidisciplinary clinic participated in the study. Each had a comprehensive

standardized evaluation, including gynecologic history, physical

examination, urodynamic testing, and physical therapy evaluation.

Qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed to determine means for

various gynecologic disorders of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Results:

The frequencies of incontinence complaints (59%), endometriosis (27%),

dyspareunia (57%), and previous hysterectomy (44%) were higher than expected

for a population with a mean age of 41 years. Incontinence could not be

demonstrated objectively. Prolapse was diagnosed in 12 (29.3%).

Conclusion:

Careful attention should be paid to women with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome

because of an association with many gynecologic complaints. Women with

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome should be questioned regarding incontinence, genital

prolapse, endometriosis, and dyspareunia.