1
|
Bigras N, Popova N, Pedneault L, Brassard A, Bergeron S. Sexual well-being among partnered adults and couples over 60: a scoping review. Sex Med Rev 2024:qeae037. [PMID: 38824393 DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qeae037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although society still holds age-related stereotypes dismissing the sexuality of aging individuals, older adults remain sexually active and find sexuality to be an important part of their quality of life. Primarily oriented toward a biomedical and dysfunctional lens, prior research neglected the subjective well-being of elderly individuals, especially partnered adults and couples aged 60 years or more. Shedding a more positive light on this area of life could promote older individuals' and couples' sexual well-being. OBJECTIVES This scoping review aimed to synthetize the studies including community samples of partnered adults or couples over 60 who reported on various indicators of subjective sexual well-being including sexual satisfaction, distress, and function using validated measures. METHODS Adhering to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMAScR), the electronic literature search was conducted using PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline, and CINAHL for peer-reviewed journal articles published before July 2023. RESULTS Results showed how relational variables such as relationship satisfaction and intimacy emerge as important correlates of older adults' sexual well-being. CONCLUSION Avenues for future research arising from gaps in the studies identified thorough this scoping review, including the underrepresentation of sexual/gender diverse individuals and the use of single and/or non-validated items to assess sexual well-being, are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Bigras
- Department of Psychoeducation and Psychology, Université du Québec en Outaouais, Québec, J8X 3X7, Canada
| | - Nevena Popova
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Lydia Pedneault
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Audrey Brassard
- Department of Psychology, Université de Sherbrooke, 2500, boul. Université, Sherbrooke, Quebec, J1K 2R1, Canada
| | - Sophie Bergeron
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, C.P. 6128, Succursale Centre-Ville, Montréal, Québec, H3C 3J7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Penteado SRL, Bonduki CE, de Araújo TRE, Alves SV, de Luccas Batista NMT, Ambrogini CC, Sartori MGF. Individualized multidisciplinary therapy for vulvodynia. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2024; 50:147-174. [PMID: 37968775 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The main objective of this review was to develop strategies for individualizing multidisciplinary therapy for vulvodynia. METHODS We conducted two literature searches; the first one focused on clinical trials assessing vulvodynia treatments published after the recommendations of the expert committee of the Fourth International Consultation on Sexual Medicine. The second search targeted studies identifying predictive factors and mediators of vulvodynia treatments, published from the earliest date to October 2022. RESULTS Based on data from 55 relevant studies, we developed models of individualized multidisciplinary therapy targeting groups of women less responsive to multidisciplinary therapy (characterized by women with higher vulvar pain intensity, impaired sexual functioning, and vulvodynia secondary subtype) and to physical therapy, as an isolated treatment (characterized by women with increased pelvic floor muscle tone and vulvodynia primary subtype). Each individualized multidisciplinary therapy model comprises three components: psychotherapy, medical care, and physical therapy. These components provide distinct therapeutic modalities for distinct subgroups of women with vulvodynia; the women subgroups were identified according to the characteristics of women, the disease, partners, and relationships. Additionally, for women with provoked vestibulodynia who exhibit less benefits from vestibulectomy (such as those with higher levels of erotophobia, greater vulvar pain intensity, and the primary subtype) and encounter resistance to individualized multidisciplinary therapy, we suggest additional conservative treatments before performing vestibulectomy. CONCLUSION Our study is a pioneer in the development of models that allow the individualization of multidisciplinary therapy for vulvodynia and represents a significant advance in the clinical practice of gynecologists, physiotherapists, and psychologists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Claudio Emilio Bonduki
- Department of Gynecology, Federal University of São Paulo-UNIFESP, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Suzana Valeska Alves
- Department of Gynecology, Federal University of São Paulo-UNIFESP, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Forden G, Ronaghan S, Williams P, Fish S, Ford C. Predictors of treatment outcome in cognitive behavioural therapy for chronic pain: a systematic review. Disabil Rehabil 2023:1-12. [PMID: 38018474 DOI: 10.1080/09638288.2023.2283113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this systematic review was to synthesise the research identifying possible influences on CBT outcomes in chronic pain. Variations in the effectiveness of psychological therapies, such as CBT, in chronic pain have led to research investigating predictors of improved treatment outcomes. MATERIALS AND METHODS We identified randomised controlled and cohort studies of CBT for chronic pain, published between 1974 to 2nd August 2023, which identified predictors of CBT outcomes. RESULTS Nineteen studies were included in the review. Baseline sociodemographic, physical and emotional factors that influence the outcomes of CBT for chronic pain were identified. The most commonly reported predictors of CBT outcome, with medium to large effect sizes, were anxiety, depression and negative cognitions about pain and coping. Sociodemographic predictors of outcomes demonstrated small effects and lacked replicability. CONCLUSIONS There was variability across study designs, CBT delivery and outcomes measures. Further research is needed in chronic pain to identify the predictive factors which influence treatment outcomes, and consistency across study designs and outcome variables is needed to reduce heterogeneity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgina Forden
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Therapies, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Sarah Ronaghan
- Psychological Medicine, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Parris Williams
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Fish
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Therapies, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Catherine Ford
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychological Therapies, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Brotto LA, Zdaniuk B, Chivers ML, Jabs F, Grabovac AD, Lalumière ML. Mindfulness and Sex Education for Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder: Mediators and Moderators of Treatment Outcome. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:508-521. [PMID: 36178481 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2126815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder (SIAD) is a common sexual dysfunction in women. Both mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) plus psychoeducation and sex therapy, education, and support (STEP; which contains the same educational information as in the MBCT arm but also integrates supportive-expressive therapy), are effective. We tested mediators and moderators of improvements. Each treatment arm consisted of eight sessions delivered weekly, and participants completed measures online pre-treatment, immediately post-treatment, and at 6- and 12-month post-treatment. Depression, self-reported interoceptive awareness, self-compassion, self-criticism, and mindfulness were examined as mediators, and expectations for improvement as a moderator. Of 148 cisgender women who consented, 70 were randomized to the MBCT plus psychoeducation group (mean age 39.3 ± 13.2 yrs) and 78 to the STEP group (mean age 37.9 ± 12.2 yrs). Decreases in depression mediated decreases in sexual distress in the MBCT plus psychoeducation group only. Improvements in interoceptive awareness mediated changes in both sexual desire and arousal, and sexual distress, and to a greater degree after MBCT plus psychoeducation. Changes in self-compassion mediated changes in sexual desire and arousal only for the MBCT plus psychoeducation group and mediated changes in sexual distress in both groups. Reductions in self-criticism mediated improvements in sexual distress to a greater extent after MBCT plus psychoeducation. Changes in mindfulness predicted changes in desire and arousal, and distress only in the MBCT plus psychoeducation group. Expectations for improvement did not moderate any outcomes. The findings have implications for understanding common and potentially distinct pathways by which MBCT plus psychoeducation and supportive sex education improve symptoms of SIAD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lori A Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia
| | - Bozena Zdaniuk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia
| | | | - Faith Jabs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nappi RE, Tiranini L, Cucinella L, Martini E, Bosoni D, Righi A, Cassani C, Gardella B. Pharmacotherapy for female sexual dysfunctions (FSDs): what is on the market and where is this field heading? Expert Opin Pharmacother 2023; 24:135-143. [PMID: 35430926 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2066997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Female sexual dysfunctions (FSDs) are common in women of any age and have a huge impact on quality of life and relationships. They have a multifaceted etiology limiting the development of pharmacotherapies with a high rate of effectiveness. Safety issues are also a concern. AREAS COVERED The authors report the most recent advances in pharmacotherapy for premenopausal and postmenopausal women with a main focus on hypoactive sexual desire disorders (HSDD) and associated sexual symptoms. Good levels of evidence have emerged for psychoactive agents, such as flibanserin and bremelanotide, as well as hormonal compounds (transdermal testosterone). The authors also report briefly on intravaginal DHEA (prasterone), local estrogen therapy (LET), and ospemifene to manage effectively vulvovaginal atrophy/genitourinary syndrome of menopause (VVA/GSM). In addition, they discuss promising therapeutic options highlighting the main reasons that hamper the availability of new labeled products. Finally, they include the importance of the multimodal approach to address FSDs. EXPERT OPINION Approved pharmacotherapies for FSD are limited. Validated multidimensional instruments and adequate objective measures of physical and mental responses to sexual external and internal incentives are mandatory to identify women suitable to chronic or on-demand treatments and to assess their pattern of response in research and practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rossella E Nappi
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lara Tiranini
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Cucinella
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ellis Martini
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - David Bosoni
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Righi
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy.,Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Chiara Cassani
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Barbara Gardella
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zarski AC, Velten J, Knauer J, Berking M, Ebert DD. Internet- and mobile-based psychological interventions for sexual dysfunctions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. NPJ Digit Med 2022; 5:139. [PMID: 36085306 PMCID: PMC9463146 DOI: 10.1038/s41746-022-00670-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual dysfunctions are highly prevalent and undertreated. Internet- and mobile-based psychological interventions (IMIs) could be a promising addition to close this treatment gap, given their accessibility, anonymity, and scalability. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the efficacy of IMIs for sexual dysfunctions. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in August 2021 on randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of IMIs on sexual functioning and satisfaction compared to a control condition. Twelve RCTs with 14 comparisons were reviewed with six IMIs targeting female and six IMIs targeting male sexual dysfunctions and n = 952 participants were evaluated in the meta-analysis. IMIs were significantly more effective than control conditions (k = 11 waitlist control group, k = 3 online discussion board) at post-treatment for female sexual functioning (g = 0.59, CI: 0.28–0.90, I2 = 0%) and satisfaction (g = 0.90, CI: 0.02–1.79, I2 = 82%), and male sexual functioning (g = 0.18, CI: 0.02–0.34, I2 = 0%). No significant effect was found for male sexual satisfaction (g = 0.69, CI: −0.13–1.51, I2 = 88%) with substantial heterogeneity in studies. Most studies showed high dropout, with ten studies indicating some concern of risk of bias, and two studies showing high risk of bias. The results suggest that IMIs can be an effective treatment for sexual dysfunctions, although additional high-quality research is needed. Given the limited availability of specialized treatment for sexual dysfunctions and individual preferences for discrete treatment options, IMIs seem to be a valuable addition to routine care, empowering individuals to promote their sexual health on a guided self-help basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Carlotta Zarski
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany. .,Professorship Psychology and Digital Mental Health Care, Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Julia Velten
- Mental Health Research and Treatment Center, Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Johannes Knauer
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Matthias Berking
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Daniel Ebert
- Professorship Psychology and Digital Mental Health Care, Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Okpo E, Othieno R, Eleje GU, Oragwu CI, Eke AC. Interventions to improve psychosexual function in women treated for gynaecological cancers. Hippokratia 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Okpo
- Regional Health Protection Team, North East England; UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA); Newcastle UK
| | - Richard Othieno
- NHS Lothian, Directorate of Public Health and Health Policy; Edinburgh UK
| | - George U Eleje
- Effective Care Research Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Faculty of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus; PMB 5001, Nnewi Nigeria
| | | | - Ahizechukwu C Eke
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics; Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Baltimore Maryland USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
van der Meijden WI, Boffa MJ, Ter Harmsel B, Kirtschig G, Lewis F, Moyal-Barracco M, Tiplica GS, Sherrard J. 2021 European guideline for the management of vulval conditions. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2022; 36:952-972. [PMID: 35411963 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.18102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- W I van der Meijden
- Department of Dermatology, Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor, UK
| | - M J Boffa
- Department of Dermatology, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| | - B Ter Harmsel
- Department of Gynaecology, Roosevelt kliniek, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - G Kirtschig
- Gesundheitszentrum Frauenfeld, Frauenfeld, Switzerland
| | - F Lewis
- St John's Institute of Dermatology, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, UK
| | - M Moyal-Barracco
- Department of Dermatology, Tarnier-Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - G-S Tiplica
- Dermatology 2, Colentina Clinical Hospital, "Carol Davila" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - J Sherrard
- Department of Sexual Health, Wycombe General Hospital, Bucks, UK
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Meesters AN, Schroevers MJ, Stewart RE, Fleer J, Meesters Y. Seasonal patterns in mindfulness in people with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). JOURNAL OF AFFECTIVE DISORDERS REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jadr.2022.100341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
|
10
|
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for women living with Vulvodynia: A single-case experimental design study of a treatment delivered online. JOURNAL OF CONTEXTUAL BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcbs.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
|
11
|
Rosen NO, Vaillancourt-Morel MP, Corsini-Munt S, Steben M, Delisle I, Baxter ML, Bergeron S. Predictors and Moderators of Provoked Vestibulodynia Treatment Outcome Following a Randomized Trial Comparing Cognitive-Behavioral Couple Therapy to Overnight Lidocaine. Behav Ther 2021; 52:1502-1515. [PMID: 34656202 DOI: 10.1016/j.beth.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Provoked vestibulodynia is a vulvar pain condition causing sexual dysfunction, affecting 8% to 10% of women. Our recently published randomized clinical trial (N = 108 couples) found that cognitive behavioral couple therapy (CBCT) and topical lidocaine reduced women's pain and associated sexual symptoms, with CBCT showing more benefits. Little is known about pretreatment predictors of treatment outcomes in couples sex therapy. In the current study, we examined women and their partners' pretreatment demographic (age, relationship length), clinical (pain duration, anxiety) and interpersonal (partner responses to pain, sexual goals) predictors/moderators of women's pain intensity, pain unpleasantness, and sexual function at posttreatment and 6-month follow-up. Longer relationship duration, lower anxiety in women, partner higher solicitousness and partner higher approach sexual goals predicted better pain outcomes for women with PVD irrespective of treatment condition. CBCT was more effective than lidocaine for improving women's sexual function at posttreatment when, at pretreatment, women had partners with higher anxiety and women reported lower approach sexual goals, whereas lidocaine was more effective for improving women's sexual function at follow-up when partners had higher approach sexual goals. Findings can assist clinicians in determining what treatment will be most beneficial for whom.
Collapse
|
12
|
Selice L, Morris KL. Mindfulness and Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Research Synthesis. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2021; 48:323-342. [PMID: 34693896 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2021.1991536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Throughout the previous decade, research exploring the associations between mindfulness and sexual dysfunction has grown exponentially. Researchers have highlighted inverse associations between mindfulness and various sexual dysfunctions, including erectile dysfunction, hypersexuality, and sexual distress, as well as positive associations between mindfulness and sexual desire, sexual satisfaction, and overall sexual functioning. This study sought to describe the state of extant literature exploring the association between mindfulness and sexual dysfunction, identify areas for future study within this area of research, and inform clinical practice when working with those experiencing sexual dysfunction. A systematic search of peer-reviewed journal articles revealed a final sample of 18 articles. After collecting data from all included articles, results support the inverse association between mindfulness and various sexual dysfunctions. Additionally, results highlight that current mindfulness and sexual dysfunction literature focuses more on the individual's experience and does not fully consider how the couple system is often impacted by, and may contribute to, the maintenance of sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, results demonstrate the importance of including LGBTQ + populations in future research, as extant literature in this area has focused primarily on the heterosexual experience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Selice
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Katherine L Morris
- Department of Human Development and Family Science, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Stephenson KR, Zippan N, Brotto LA. Feasibility of a cognitive behavioral online intervention for women with Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder. J Clin Psychol 2021; 77:1877-1893. [PMID: 33831258 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.23137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Difficulties with sexual desire and arousal are common in women, but most lack access to effective treatment such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). eSense is a recently created online CBT intervention for sexual difficulties with promising evidence of usability. The current study assessed the feasibility of women completing the full eSense CBT program without guidance. METHODS Eleven women with Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder completed eSense and provided feedback via semi-structured interviews. RESULTS Participants reported high satisfaction with eSense's functionality, improved knowledge about sexuality, greater awareness of their thought patterns, and better perspective around their sexual difficulties. Despite some difficulty completing homework, participants exhibited statistically significant pre-post improvements in sexual desire (d = 1.04), sexual arousal (d = 1.83), sexual satisfaction (d = 1.35), and sexual distress (d = 1.79). CONCLUSION The findings add to the growing evidence that self-guided online interventions are feasible and potentially efficacious in treating female sexual dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Natasha Zippan
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lori A Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|