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Dourou P, Gourounti K, Lykeridou A, Gaitanou K, Petrogiannis N, Athanasiadou CR, Sousamli A, Xanthos T, Sarantaki A. Evaluating Sexual Health in Women with Multiple Sclerosis: A Study on the Interplay of Disability and Quality of Life. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1239. [PMID: 38998774 PMCID: PMC11241424 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12131239] [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: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
In the context of evolving perceptions of sexuality, particularly within the realm of health and disability, this study investigates the impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on female sexual function and quality of life. A quantitative study involving 130 female MS patients aged 35 to 50 was conducted, employing measures such as The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), The Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ-19), and The Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS). Results indicate a significant association between greater sexual dysfunction and poorer quality of sex life, alongside the correlation of increased fatigue with diminished sexual satisfaction. Specifically, the mean FSFI score was 20.8 (SD = 9.36), with 83.8% of participants experiencing severe fatigue (FSS score ≥ 36). Sexual dysfunction demonstrated a strong, negative correlation with all FSFI subscales (p < 0.01). Factors such as education level (p = 0.016), time of diagnosis (p = 0.035), and treatment regimen (p = 0.041) also significantly influenced outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of supportive interventions, including counseling, to enhance the quality of sex life for women with disabilities, particularly those with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Dourou
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Kleanthi Gourounti
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Lykeridou
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Chrysoula Rozalia Athanasiadou
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Sousamli
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoros Xanthos
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
| | - Antigoni Sarantaki
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, Ag. Spyridonos Str., 122 43 Athens, Greece
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Armeni A, Armeni E, Augoulea A, Delialis D, Angelidakis L, Papaioannou M, Kaparos G, Alexandrou A, Georgopoulos N, Vlahos N, Stamatelopoulos K, Lambrinoudaki I. Sexual function scores are associated with arterial stiffness in postmenopausal women. J Sex Med 2024; 21:145-152. [PMID: 38048636 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdad158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has been suggested to be correlated with the burden of cardiovascular risk factors. AIM We aimed to evaluate the possible association between functional indices of vascular function and FSD scores in apparently healthy postmenopausal women. METHODS This cross-sectional study included 116 postmenopausal women who underwent assessment of endothelial function with measurement of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the branchial artery and arterial stiffness estimation with measurement of the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV). We used the Greene Climacteric Scale to evaluate vasomotor symptomatology, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to evaluate FSD and the Beck Depression Inventory to evaluate mood disorder. Low sexual function was defined as an FSFI score <26.55. OUTCOMES These included FSFI and low sexual function scores as well as measures of PWV and FMD. RESULTS Sexual function scores were associated with measures of blood pressure (normal vs low sexual function; systolic blood pressure: 120.2 ± 15.0 mm Hg vs 113.4 ± 14.6 mm Hg; analysis of covariance P = .026; diastolic blood pressure: 75.9 ± 10.5 mm Hg vs 70.3 ± 9.9 mm Hg; analysis of covariance P = .012; both adjusted for age, body mass index, current smoking, and PWV). Systolic blood pressure, but not diastolic blood pressure, was associated with FSFI (B = 0.249, P = .041) and PWV (B = 0.392, P < .001). PWV measures were associated with FSFI (B = -0.291, P = .047) and pulse pressure (B = 0.355, P = .017). FMD measures were also associated with FSFI (B = 0.427, P = .033). All models were adjusted for age, body mass index, current smoking, insulin resistance, vasomotor symptomatology, and Beck Depression Inventory. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Our findings demonstrate that lower scores of sexual function are associated with deteriorated vascular function mainly manifested as arterial stiffening, further contributing to systolic blood pressure changes. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS The strength of this study is the carefully selected healthy sample of postmenopausal women, with simultaneous assessment of climacteric symptomatology and mood disorders. The limitations include the small sample size, the cross-sectional design, and the recruitment of consecutive outpatients of a university menopause clinic. CONCLUSION Longitudinal studies and interventions to improve FSD should further assess the clinical relevance of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Armeni
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, GR-26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Eleni Armeni
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
- Royal Free Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, UCL Medical School, London NW3 2QG, United Kingdom
| | - Areti Augoulea
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Delialis
- Laboratory of Vascular Pathophysiology, Department of Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Lasthenis Angelidakis
- Laboratory of Vascular Pathophysiology, Department of Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Papaioannou
- Laboratory of Vascular Pathophysiology, Department of Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - George Kaparos
- Biochemical Laboratory, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Alexandrou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Neoklis Georgopoulos
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, University of Patras Medical School, GR-26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Nicolaos Vlahos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Kimon Stamatelopoulos
- Laboratory of Vascular Pathophysiology, Department of Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Irene Lambrinoudaki
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aretaieio Hospital, University of Athens, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
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Zachariou A, Zikopoulos A, Sapouna V, Skentou C, Kaltsas A, Giannakis I, Zachariou D, Dimitriadis F, Mamoulakis C, Mai DBT, Phuoc NHV, Takenaka A, Sofikitis N. Supervised Pelvic Floor Muscle Training Improves Sexual Function and Diminishes Sexual Distress in Women with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomised Controlled Study. J Pers Med 2024; 14:88. [PMID: 38248789 PMCID: PMC10820578 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010088] [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: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) on sexual function and distress in women with multiple sclerosis (MS), a prevalent chronic nervous system disorder associated with sexual dysfunction. This study's primary aim was to assess the effectiveness of PFMT at improving sexual function and alleviating sexual distress in this population. In a randomised controlled trial, 82 women with MS were divided into two groups: Group A (41 women) underwent 12 weeks of PFMT, while Group B (41 women) served as a control group with no intervention. Both groups were assessed at the beginning and end of this study using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R). Statistical analysis, including Chi-square tests, was employed to compare the outcomes between the two groups, with a p-value of less than 0.05 considered significant. The results revealed no significant differences in baseline sexual function and distress between the groups. However, at the conclusion of the 12-week period, Group A exhibited statistically significant improvements in nearly all domains of FSFI and FSDS-R compared to Group B, except in the pain domain. This study concludes that PFMT can effectively enhance sexual function and reduce sexual distress in women suffering from MS. These findings underscore the potential of PFMT as a therapeutic intervention in managing sexual dysfunction associated with MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Zachariou
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (I.G.); (N.S.)
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (I.G.); (N.S.)
| | - Vaia Sapouna
- Department of Urology, EV PRATTEIN Rehabilitation Centre, 38222 Volos, Greece; (V.S.); (D.Z.)
| | - Chara Skentou
- Department of Obstetrics and, Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Aris Kaltsas
- Third Department of Urology, Attikon University Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12462 Athens, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Giannakis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (I.G.); (N.S.)
| | - Dimitrios Zachariou
- Department of Urology, EV PRATTEIN Rehabilitation Centre, 38222 Volos, Greece; (V.S.); (D.Z.)
| | - Fotios Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Charalampos Mamoulakis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Crete, 70013 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Dung Ba Tien Mai
- Department of Andrology, Binh Dan Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (D.B.T.M.); (N.H.V.P.)
| | - Nguyen Ho Vinh Phuoc
- Department of Andrology, Binh Dan Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; (D.B.T.M.); (N.H.V.P.)
| | - Atsushi Takenaka
- Department of Urology, Tottori University, Yonago 683-8503, Japan;
| | - Nikolaos Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (I.G.); (N.S.)
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Daescu AMC, Dehelean L, Navolan DB, Pop GN, Stoian DL. Psychometric properties of the Romanian version of the female sexual function index (FSFI-RO). BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:528. [PMID: 37803305 PMCID: PMC10559518 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02676-7] [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: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a highly prevalent health disorder and no self-report questionnaire on female sexual function is available in Romanian. Therefore we considered the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to be the most appropriate due to its excellent psychometric properties. The FSFI is a measuring scale with 19 items that assess the six domains of female sexual function: desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain. The paper aims to analyze the psychometric reliability and validity of the FSFI-RO (Romanian Version of the Female Sexual Function Index). METHODS 385 women (aged 18 to 51) enrolled in the present study. To assess the presence of FSD we used the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) criteria for sexual dysfunction. Then we categorized the participants into two groups: the FSD group (41%) and the healthy control group (59%). Women were then asked to fill out a form that included sociodemographic information and the FSFI-RO questionnaire. A sample of 50 women agreed to re-answer FSFI-RO in a 4-week interval in order to evaluate the test-retest validity of the questionnaire. The data were summarized using descriptive statistics: the test-retest reliability was measured by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC); Cronbach's alpha was employed to evaluate the internal consistency of the Romanian version of the FSFI, and validity was assessed by the content and construct validity. RESULTS The results showed high test-retest reliability, with ICC from 0.942 to 0.991 in the domains and 0.987 in the total score. Regarding the internal consistency of the FSFI-RO, Cronbach's α coefficients were found to be high (α = 0.944). Convergent construct validity proved to be moderate to high in desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm and, satisfaction domains, and weak correlation in the pain domain. Regarding the discriminant construct validity, the scores for each domain and the total score showed statistically significant differences between the FSD group and the control group. CONCLUSIONS The FSFI-RO showed similar psychometric properties to those of the original version, therefore being a reliable and valid instrument that can be used in Romanian-speaking women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana-Maria Cristina Daescu
- PhD School Department, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
- Neurosciences Department, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
- Department of Internal Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
| | - Liana Dehelean
- Neurosciences Department, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania.
| | - Dan-Bogdan Navolan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
| | - Gheorghe Nicusor Pop
- Department of Cardiology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
| | - Dana Liana Stoian
- Department of Internal Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, 300041, Romania
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Tsatsou I, Mystakidou K, Adamakidou T, Konstantinidis T, Kalemikerakis I, Galanos A, Govina O. Sexual Function in Women Survivors of Hematologic Malignancy after Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Curr Oncol 2023; 30:2916-2927. [PMID: 36975436 PMCID: PMC10047073 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol30030223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
A multicenter, cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the sexual function of women survivors of hematologic malignancy after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHSCT), and to compare it with that of healthy women controls. Fifty-six sexually active women survivors of hematologic malignancy who underwent AHSCT were recruited through convenience sampling, as well as 60 healthy women. Demographic and clinical data questionnaires and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were completed. Survivors had a median age of 44 years and a median time since transplant of 3 years, while 48.2% had Hodgkin Lymphoma. Survivors reported an average level of sexual dysfunction, with a total score mean ± SD = 22.51 ± 8.95. The best sexual functioning domain was “pain” and the most affected was “orgasm”. There was a statistically significant association between survivors’ sexual function and age (p < 0.0005) in both the unifactorial and the multifactorial analysis. In addition, there was a statistically significant association between survivors’ sexual function and functional status (p < 0.0005), menopausal status (p < 0.0005), the presence of children (p = 0.002), education (p < 0.0005), and diagnosis (p < 0.0005). Healthy women had statistically significantly higher scores in all FSFI subscales (p < 0.0005). Women survivors of hematologic malignancy, treated by AHSCT, had impaired sexual function, implying the need to implement regular sexual health assessment in survivorship care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Tsatsou
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Egaleo, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-6983525725
| | - Kyriaki Mystakidou
- Pain Relief and Palliative Care Unit, Department of Radiology, Areteion Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11526 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Antonis Galanos
- Laboratory for Research of the Musculoskeletal System, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 14561 Athens, Greece
| | - Ourania Govina
- Department of Nursing, University of West Attica, 12243 Egaleo, Greece
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Armeni A, Armeni E, Augoulea A, Stergiotis S, Kaparos G, Alexandrou A, Eleftheriadis M, Georgopoulos N, Vlahos N, Lambrinoudaki I. Climacteric symptoms, age, and sense of coherence are associated with sexual function scores in women after menopause. J Sex Med 2023; 20:313-323. [PMID: 36763958 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdac031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postmenopausal sexual function presupposes the integration of hormonal, neural, and vascular interactions and is subject to optimal crosstalk among psychological, interpersonal, cultural, and environmental factors. Sense of coherence (SOC) reflects a person's ability to cope with stressors and may influence the occurrence of menopausal symptoms and sexual dysfunction. AIM To investigate the association of severity of climacteric symptoms, cardiometabolic risk factors, and SOC with sexual function in postmenopausal women. METHODS Overall 281 sexually active postmenopausal women without significant psychopathology or cardiovascular disease attending the Menopause Unit of Aretaieion Hospital were evaluated by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Greene Climacteric Scale, Beck Depression Scale, and Sense of Coherence Scale. Hormonal and biochemical parameters and cardiometabolic risk factors were evaluated. FSFI scores <26.5 were considered pathologic. OUTCOMES Total and subdomain scores of sexual response were determined. RESULTS Pathologic FSFI scores were found in 79.7% of the sample. Linear models of multivariable regression analysis showed that FSFI scores were associated with (1) Beck scores (b = -0.200; 95% CI, -0.472 to -0.073, P = .001), vasomotor symptom severity (b = -0.324; 95% CI, -0.985 to 0.051; P < .001), and age and (2) SOC (b = 0.150, 95% CI, 0.036-0.331; P = .008), vasomotor symptom severity (b = -0.361; 95% CI, -0.743 to 0.245; P < .001), and age. Both models were adjusted for menopausal age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, type of menopause, and menopausal hormone therapy intake. SOC was associated with Beck depression scores (β = -0.487, P < .001; Greene Climacteric Scale total scores, β = -0.199, P < .001). FSFI score <26.5 vs >26.5 was associated with SOC (odds ratio, 0.982; 95% CI, 0.563 to 1.947; P = .006) and moderate to severe vasomotor symptom severity (odds ratio, 2.476; 95% CI, 1.478 to 3.120; P = .009) independent of age, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, menopausal hormone therapy intake, type of menopause, or Beck depression classification. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The results indicate the importance of psychometric assessment of postmenopausal women when presenting with scores of low sexual function. The severity of vasomotor symptoms should also be addressed in any case. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This is the first study investigating the relationship between SOC and sexuality in menopause in a carefully selected homogenous population. Limitations included the cross-sectional design and the fact that sexual distress was not assessed. CONCLUSIONS Pathologic FSFI scores were highly prevalent in this sample of postmenopausal women. FSFI is associated positively with age and severity of vasomotor symptoms and negatively with SOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Armeni
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece.,Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Patras Medical School, University Hospital, GR-26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Eleni Armeni
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Areti Augoulea
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Stefanos Stergiotis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - George Kaparos
- Biochemical Laboratory, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Alexandrou
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Makarios Eleftheriadis
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Neoklis Georgopoulos
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Patras Medical School, University Hospital, GR-26504 Patras, Greece
| | - Nicolaos Vlahos
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Irene Lambrinoudaki
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieion Hospital, GR-11528 Athens, Greece
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Sotiropoulou P, Ferenidou F, Owens D, Kokka I, Minopoulou E, Koumantanou E, Pavlopoulou I, Apotsos P, Karvouni M, Koumantarou E, Mourikis I, Vaidakis N, Papageorgiou C. The Impact of Social Distancing Measures Due to COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Function and Relationship Quality of Couples in Greece. Sex Med 2021; 9:100364. [PMID: 34051539 PMCID: PMC8240326 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 02/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Recent studies have reported that the quarantine imposed in several countries around the world due to Covid-19 affected the sexual function and relationship quality. On the March 23, 2020 the Greek government imposed a national quarantine to contain the spread of the pandemic. The impact of such conditions on sexual function and relationship quality of couples is unknown. AIM To investigate sexual function and relationship quality of couples during the quarantine. METHODS An online anonymous survey was conducted one month post-impose of the quarantine, between the April 21 and the May 3, 2020. Adult respondents in a relationship completed a questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, structured inquiries regarding sexual activity and quality of relationship, anxiety level, and mood during the quarantine, as well as the IIEF and FSFI indices. OUTCOMES Sexual function was assessed using the Greek versions of the FSFI and IIEF for females and males respectively. Sexual activity using 5 statements regarding frequency of sexual thoughts, masturbation, and intercourse, quality of intercourse and general estimation of the level of sexual function. Participants graded their level of agreement. Relationship quality was assessed using 5 questions regarding communication, company, understanding, tension and general estimation of companionship. Participants graded their level of agreement. Two additional statements were used in order to evaluate mood and the level of anxiety. RESULTS A sum of 299 adult heterosexual participants in a relationship participated. Little or no negative impact on sexual function was reported. Increased anxiety and deficient mood were reported only for those with no access to their partner. Being in a steady relationship and living with their partner, but only for couples without children, resulted in satisfaction by sexual activity and enhanced emotional security. CONCLUSION Sexual function and relationship quality appeared as not affected by the quarantine and by the measures of social distancing. Sotiropoulou P, Ferenidou F, Owens D, et al. The Impact of Social Distancing Measures Due to COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Function and Relationship Quality of Couples in Greece. Sex Med 2021;9:100364.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paraskevi Sotiropoulou
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Fotini Ferenidou
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Dimitra Owens
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Ioulia Kokka
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health; Postgraduate Course of Science of Stress and Health Promotion, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| | - Eirini Minopoulou
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Evangelia Koumantanou
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Iliana Pavlopoulou
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Panagiotis Apotsos
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Maria Karvouni
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Elli Koumantarou
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Iraklis Mourikis
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Nikos Vaidakis
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
| | - Charalambos Papageorgiou
- First Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Eginition Hospital, Athens, Greece. Outpatient Specialty Clinic for Sexual Health
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Salvatore S, Pitsouni E, Grigoriadis T, Zacharakis D, Pantaleo G, Candiani M, Athanasiou S. CO 2 laser and the genitourinary syndrome of menopause: a randomized sham-controlled trial. Climacteric 2020; 24:187-193. [PMID: 33089713 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2020.1829584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to clarify the efficacy of intravaginal CO2-laser treatment in postmenopausal women with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). MATERIALS AND METHODS This double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled trial included postmenopausal women diagnosed with GSM and bothersome dryness and dyspareunia. Treatment consisted of three sessions. Active CO2-laser treatments (active group) were compared to sham treatments (sham group) with the primary endpoints being changes in dryness and dyspareunia intensity, as assessed by the 10-cm visual analog scale. Secondary endpoints were as follows: changes in Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI; total score and all domains), itching, burning, dysuria, and Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI-6); incidence of symptoms; and presence of adverse events. All outcomes were evaluated at baseline and 4 months post baseline. RESULTS Fifty-eight women (28 in the active group and 30 in the sham group) were eligible for inclusion. In the active group, dryness, dyspareunia, FSFI (total score), itching, burning, dysuria, and UDI-6 were significantly improved (mean [standard deviation] -5.6 [2.8], -6 [2.6], 12.3 [8.9], -2.9 [2.8], -2.3 [2.8], -0.9 [2.1], and -8.0 [15.3], respectively). In the sham group, dryness, itching, and burning were significantly improved (-1.9 [2], -1.4 [1.9], and -1 [1.9], respectively). All changes were in favor of the active group. After completion of the protocol, the proportion of participants with dryness, dyspareunia, and sexual dysfunction was significantly lower in the active group compared to those in the sham group (all p < 0.005). CONCLUSIONS CO2 laser could be proposed as an effective alternative treatment for the management of GSM as it is superior to sham treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Salvatore
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - E Pitsouni
- Urogynaecology Unit, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Alexandra' Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - T Grigoriadis
- Urogynaecology Unit, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Alexandra' Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - D Zacharakis
- Urogynaecology Unit, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Alexandra' Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - G Pantaleo
- UniSR-Social.Lab, Faculty of Psychology, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - M Candiani
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - S Athanasiou
- Urogynaecology Unit, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Alexandra' Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Rincón-Hernández AI, Parra-Carrillo WC, Álvarez-Muelas A, Peñuela-Trujillo C, Rosero F, Espitia de la Hoz F, González JM, Saffon P, Vélez D, Franco E, Rojas M, Vallejo-Medina P. Temporal stability and clinical validation of the Spanish version of the female sexual function inventory (FSFI). Women Health 2020; 61:189-198. [PMID: 32900275 DOI: 10.1080/03630242.2020.1819940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The Female Sexual Function Index is one of the most common instruments used to evaluate the female sexual function. The present study aimed to analyze the test-retest reliability, internal consistency, and discriminant validity of the index in clinical samples and to determine a specific and sensitive cutoff point for the Spanish version of the Female Sexual Function Index. For that purpose, a sample consisting of 117 Colombian women was recruited to evaluate test-retest reliability, and a second sample, consisting of 185 women, was divided into diagnosis and no-diagnosis groups based on DSM-5 criteria. Results showed adequate test-retest reliability after four weeks, and satisfactory evidence of internal consistency was obtained for subscale and overall scores. The inventory was found to have an adequate criterion validity, and it confirmed the differences between diagnosis and no-diagnosis groups. The instrument's cutoff point was determined to be 26 points, with a specificity of 73.9%, a sensitivity of 87.7%, and an area under the curve of 85.9 (CI = 80.0-91.7). These results confirm that the Spanish version of the FSFI is an adequate tool for evaluating female sexual dysfunction based on DSM-5 criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ana Álvarez-Muelas
- Centro de Investigación, Mente, Cerebro y Comportamiento (CIMCYC), Universidad de Granada , Granada, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Pablo Vallejo-Medina
- SexLabKL, School of Psychology, Fundación Universitaria Konrad Lorenz , Bogotá, Colombia
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Gklavas A, Kyprianou C, Exarchos G, Metaxa L, Dellis A, Papaconstantinou I. Sexual function after proctectomy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A prospective study. TURKISH JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY 2020; 30:943-950. [PMID: 31767548 DOI: 10.5152/tjg.2019.18676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) show a multifactorial impact on patients' quality of life, including sexual function (SF). The need for surgical intervention remains high, whereas proctectomy is frequently required in these patients. We tried to evaluate the impact of pelvic dissection during proctectomy in IBD patients' SF. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted a prospective study, examining the pre- and postoperative (at 6 months) SF of 57 IBD patients that underwent proctectomy in our surgical department, in the period between 2010 and 2016. The 5-item International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) and the Female Sexual Function Index were our research tools for men and women, respectively. We tried to evaluate the impact of gender, age, type of the disease, and surgical procedure on postoperative outcome. RESULTS Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) was offered to 45 patients, whereas 12 patients underwent total proctocolectomy with permanent end ileostomy (TPC). Men showed a non-significant improvement in median IIEF-5 score after proctectomy (22.0 vs 23.0, p=0.152). The majority of men had no erectile dysfunction either before (56.4%) or after (51.3%) surgery (p=0.599). Changes remained insignificant for subgroup analysis according to age, disease and surgical procedure. Female patients had also a non-significant improvement in overall median score (23.0 vs 24.1, p=0.856). Women's score remained below the cut-off value of 26.5 for almost every subgroup analyzed. CONCLUSIONS Proctectomy did not affect SF of IBD patents six months after surgery. Female patients seem to face more frequently a poor SF compared to men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonios Gklavas
- 2nd Surgical Department, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Christofis Kyprianou
- 2nd Surgical Department, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Exarchos
- 2nd Surgical Department, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Linda Metaxa
- Department of Radiology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Athanasios Dellis
- 2nd Surgical Department, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Ioannis Papaconstantinou
- 2nd Surgical Department, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the reliability and validity of the Spanish version of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and its ability to discriminate between women with and without female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among Spanish postmenopausal women. METHODS A total of 152 postmenopausal women completed the Spanish version of FSFI. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and construct validity (exploratory factor analysis) were analyzed. Concurrent and divergent validity were assessed using a visual analog scale for overall satisfaction with sexual life and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, respectively. To determine the ability and the accuracy of the FSFI total score in discriminating between women with and without FSD, a receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis was performed. RESULTS Factor analysis suggested a three-factor structure (explained variance 77.77%). The Spanish FSFI showed substantial-to-excellent test-retest reliability, with good internal consistency in the FSFI total score (Cronbach's alpha = 0.964), and also in its three dimensions. The FSFI total and domains scores showed strong (r > 0.50) and significant correlations (P < 0.01) with overall satisfaction with sexual life (concurrent validity), and low correlations with anxiety and depression (divergent validity). The Spanish FSFI total score and dimensions were significantly able to discriminate between women with and without FSD (P < 0.05), with an optimal cut-off point of <24.95 for the FSFI total score (64.15% sensitivity and 75.76% specificity). CONCLUSIONS The Spanish FSFI is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing and discriminating for FSD among Spanish postmenopausal women.
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Linguistic translation and validation of the Menopause-specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) questionnaire in Greek menopausal women. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 27:808-815. [PMID: 32217885 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000001527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to translate the Menopause-specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) questionnaire in Greek and validate it for usage in the Greek population both in written and electronic form. METHODS The original English questionnaire MENQOL with 1-month recall period was translated by our team. According to instructions by Mapi Research Trust, the questionnaire was forward and back-translated, followed by patient testing and proofreading. Then it was transcripted electronically. Validation was performed with the following tests: internal consistency (reliability), stability (test-retest reliability) with Cronbach's alpha correlations, independent and paired t tests, and Pearson's correlation coefficients. RESULTS A total of 105 women, the majority recently menopausal, participated in the study. Internal consistency using the Cronbach's alpha showed high reliability ranging between 0.833 (physical domain) and 0.896 (vasomotor domain) for the written, and 0.720 (physical domain) and 0.868 (vasomotor domain) for the online form. Test-retest reliability was also high for both forms. The sexual domain of MENQOL had the higher mean, indicating the highest impact on quality of life (3.80 ± 2.35). CONCLUSIONS The Greek version of MENQOL is a reliable instrument for evaluating menopausal women. Availability of an online form will allow wider dissemination of the questionnaire. Further use of the questionnaire in Greece may lead to better understanding of the bothersome symptoms of menopause; a prerequisite to develop intervention studies for amelioration of quality of life.
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Scoring and Interpretation of the FSFI: What can be Learned From 20 Years of use? J Sex Med 2019; 17:17-25. [PMID: 31735616 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Over the past 20 years, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) has been considered the gold standard for the measurement of sexual function in women, with over 1,000 published manuscripts citing the article. Despite the measure's widespread usage and excellent psychometric properties, there has been some confusion over how to best implement and score the measure and interpret corresponding findings. AIM The aim of the current article is to provide guidance, drawing from 20 years of use, on how to best implement the FSFI in research settings and interpret results based on the validation studies that have been conducted to date. METHODS The overview of scoring and interpretation procedures found in this article is drawn from a review of the published literature on the psychometric properties of the FSFI. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The measure of interest for the present review is the FSFI. RESULTS This review article provides information about implementing, scoring, and interpreting the full-scale FSFI. Domain-level scoring and interpretation procedures are also discussed across the 5 domains of the FSFI: arousal, satisfaction, desire, pain, and lubrication. Additionally, guidance is provided for evaluating translated versions of the FSFI and using the measure to examine sexual function in culturally diverse populations. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Guidance on appropriately scoring and interpretating the FSFI has the potential to strengthen our empirical understanding of sexual function, and consequently, to guide theory-driven treatment development and clinical practice. STRENGTH & LIMITATIONS The present review provides applied guidance for the appropriate use of the FSFI specifically, but does not cover other common measures of sexual function or adaptations of the original measure. CONCLUSION It is our hope that the guidance found in this review will ultimately lead to more rigorous and appropriate usage of the FSFI in research settings. Meston CM, Freihart BK, Handy AB, et al. Scoring and Interpretation of the FSFI: What can be Learned From 20 Years of use? J Sex Med 2020;17:17-25.
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Levy G, Lowenstein L. Overactive Bladder Syndrome Treatments and Their Effect on Female Sexual Function: A Review. Sex Med 2019; 8:1-7. [PMID: 31604683 PMCID: PMC7042164 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2019.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Overactive bladder (OAB), the most common subtype of urinary incontinence, has a heavy price on quality of life, especially on sexual life. Unfortunately, most women rarely voice the worsening of sexual function, especially those who already suffer from OAB symptoms. It has been demonstrated that patients who suffer from OAB score lower on Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire and Female Sexual Function Index scores, meaning that their sexual function is debilitated. Therapies for OAB begin with traditional pelvic floor physiotherapy, advance to anticholinergic drugs, and become more invasive with intravesical injections of onabotulinumtoxinA (commonly known as Botox). Last, for patients resistant to conservative therapies, sacral neuromodulation is the treatment of choice. Methods This article reviews the current literature that sheds light on the above 4 treatments and their effect on sexual function. This topic is of great importance because of the under-reporting of sexual dysfunction in women who suffer from OAB, in hopes of raising awareness of sexual function for clinicians treating patients with OAB. Results This review found that the aforementioned 4 treatments for OAB (physiotherapy, anticholinergic drugs, intravesical injections of onabotulinumtoxinA, and sacral neuromodulation) do not have a detrimental affect on sexual function. On the contrary, the little data that do exist show that sexual function increases after these therapies are completed in women with OAB. Conclusion This review concludes with a positive outlook: physicians are helping women with OAB syndrome to improve their sexual function. However, not enough data exist, partially due to under-reporting of diminished sexual function. Levy G, Lowenstein L. Overactive Bladder Syndrome Treatments and Their Effect on Female Sexual Function: A Review. Sex Med 2019;8:1–7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gali Levy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel; Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Lior Lowenstein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel
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Papaefstathiou E, Apostolopoulou A, Papaefstathiou E, Moysidis K, Hatzimouratidis K, Sarafis P. The impact of burnout and occupational stress on sexual function in both male and female individuals: a cross-sectional study. Int J Impot Res 2019; 32:510-519. [DOI: 10.1038/s41443-019-0170-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Neijenhuijs KI, Hooghiemstra N, Holtmaat K, Aaronson NK, Groenvold M, Holzner B, Terwee CB, Cuijpers P, Verdonck-de Leeuw IM. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)-A Systematic Review of Measurement Properties. J Sex Med 2019; 16:640-660. [PMID: 30956110 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 02/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) is a patient-reported outcome measure measuring female sexual dysfunction. The FSFI-19 was developed with 6 theoretical subscales in 2000. In 2010, a shortened version became available (FSFI-6). AIM To investigate the measurement properties of the FSFI-19 and FSFI-6. METHODS A systematic search was performed of Embase, Medline, and Web of Science for studies that investigated measurement properties of the FSFI-19 or FSFI-6 up to April 2018. Data were extracted and analyzed according to COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) guidelines. Evidence was categorized into sufficient, insufficient, inconsistent, or indeterminate, and quality of evidence as very high, high, moderate, or low. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The Main Outcome Measure is the evidence of a measurement property, and the quality of evidence based on the COSMIN guidelines. RESULTS 83 studies were included. Concerning the FSFI-19, the evidence for internal consistency was sufficient and of moderate quality. The evidence for reliability was sufficient but of low quality. The evidence for criterion validity was sufficient and of high quality. The evidence for structural validity was inconsistent of low quality. The evidence for construct validity was inconsistent of moderate quality. Concerning the FSFI-6, the evidence for criterion validity was sufficient of moderate quality. The evidence for internal consistency was rated as indeterminate. The evidence for reliability was inconsistent of low quality. The evidence for construct validity was inconsistent of very low quality. No information was available on structural validity of the FSFI-6, and measurement error, responsiveness, and cross-cultural validity of both FSFI-6 and FSFI-19. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Conflicting and lack of evidence for some of the measurement properties of the FSFI-19 and FSFI-6 indicates the importance of further research on the validity of these patient-reported outcome measures. We advise researchers who use the FSFI-19 to perform confirmatory factor analyses and report the factor structure found in their sample. Regardless of these concerns, the FSFI-19 and FSFI-6 have strong criterion validity. Pragmatically, they are good screening tools for the current definition of female sexual dysfunction. STRENGTH & LIMITATION A strong point of the review is the use of predefined guidelines. A limitation is the use of a precise rather than a sensitive search filter. CONCLUSIONS The FSFI requires more research on structural validity (FSFI-19 and FSFI-6), reliability (FSFI-6), construct validity (FSFI-19), measurement error (FSFI-19 and FSFI-6), and responsiveness (FSFI-19 and FSFI-6). Further corroboration of measurement invariance (both across cultures and across subpopulations) in the factor structure of the FSFI-19 is necessary, as well as tests for the unidimensionality of the FSFI-6. Neijenhuijs KI, Hooghiemstra N, Holtmaat K, et al. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)-A Systematic Review of Measurement Properties. J Sex Med 2019;16:640-660.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koen I Neijenhuijs
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nienke Hooghiemstra
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karen Holtmaat
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Neil K Aaronson
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mogens Groenvold
- The Research Unit, Department of Palliative Medicine, Bispebjerg Hospital, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bernhard Holzner
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, CL-Service, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Caroline B Terwee
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Pim Cuijpers
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irma M Verdonck-de Leeuw
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Konstantinidis C, Tzitzika M, Bantis A, Nikolia A, Samarinas M, Kratiras Z, Thomas C, Skriapas K. Female Sexual Dysfunction Among Greek Women With Multiple Sclerosis: Correlations With Organic and Psychological Factors. Sex Med 2019; 7:19-25. [PMID: 30638831 PMCID: PMC6377371 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2018.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Revised: 11/11/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative neurological disease that usually occurs between the ages of 20 and 50 years. Sexuality issues are important factors that affect the quality of life of patients. Aim To determine and evaluate the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in Greek women with MS and correlate it with organic and psychological factors. Methods 248 consecutive women with MS, aged over 18 who admitted to our outpatient clinics from February 2016 to March 2017 were included in the study. Demographics (age, marital status, menopause status, number of children) and disease-related data such as the duration of the disease, Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and medication for MS obtained. Main Outcome Measure All participants completed the Greek validated versions of the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Female Sexual Function Inventory (FSFI) questionnaires. Statistics used to estimate the prevalence of FSD and its correlation with organic (age, EDSS, duration of the disease, menopause status) and psychological factors (depression, anxiety, stress). Results FSD was diagnosed in 64.5% of our sample. Age was associated with most subscales of the FSFI. There was no significant correlation in FSFI subscales with the disease duration. Correlation of EDSS and FSFI scores was found to be statistically significant with a negative correlation in all subscales apart from the Satisfaction subscale. Regarding the association between DASS domains and FSFI subscales, there were no significant correlations. Conclusion FSD is common among Greek women; it is influenced by age, severity of disease, and it is independent of the existence of depression, anxiety, and stress. Konstantinidis C, Tzitzika M, Bantis A, et al. Female sexual dysfunction among Greek women with multiple sclerosis: Correlations with organic and psychological factors. Sex Med 2019;7:19–25.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Moira Tzitzika
- Urology & Neuro-urology Unit, National Rehabilitation Center, Ilion, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasios Bantis
- Urology & Neuro-urology Unit, National Rehabilitation Center, Ilion, Athens, Greece
| | - Archontia Nikolia
- Urology & Neuro-urology Unit, National Rehabilitation Center, Ilion, Athens, Greece
| | - Michalis Samarinas
- Urology Department, General Hospital of Larisa "Koutlibanio", Larisa, Greece
| | - Zisis Kratiras
- Urology Department, General Hospital of Larisa "Koutlibanio", Larisa, Greece
| | - Charalampos Thomas
- Urology & Neuro-urology Unit, National Rehabilitation Center, Ilion, Athens, Greece
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Zachariou A, Mamoulakis C, Filiponi M, Dimitriadis F, Giannakis J, Skouros S, Tsounapi P, Takenaka A, Sofikitis N. The effect of mirabegron, used for overactive bladder treatment, on female sexual function: a prospective controlled study. BMC Urol 2018; 18:61. [PMID: 29940933 PMCID: PMC6020185 DOI: 10.1186/s12894-018-0377-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Αim of the study was to determine the effect of mirabegron, used for overactive bladder (OAB) treatment, on female sexual function. METHODS Eighty five sexually active women suffering from overactive bladder were prospectively enrolled in this study. Females were divided into two groups. In Group A (control), 48 patients received no treatment and in Group B, 37 patients received mirabegron 50 mg/daily for 3 months. Patients were evaluated with FSFI-Gr at the beginning of the study and again after a period of 3 months. RESULTS In Group B, there was a significant increase post-treatment compared to baseline (p < 0.001) in total FSFI (20.3 (3.8) to 26.6 (4.2)) and all domains (desire: 3.0 (1.2) to 4.8 (1.2)), arousal: 3.0 (0.8) to 4.8 (0.9), lubrication: 3.9 (1.1) to 4.8 (1.2), orgasm: 3.6 (0.8) to 4.8 (1.0), satisfaction: 3.2 (0.4) to 4.0 (0.8) and pain: 3.2 (0.8) to 4.4 (1.2)). In Group A, there were no statistically significant changes in pre- and post-observation values. CONCLUSIONS This study is one of the few demonstrating that management of OAB with mirabegron improves female sexual function. TRIAL REGISTRATION TRN ISRCTN17199301 , 20/10/2017, retrospectively registered.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Zachariou
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
- 3 Spyridi Street, 38221 Volos, Greece
| | - C. Mamoulakis
- Department of Urology, University General Hospital of Heraklion, University of Crete, Medical School, Heraklion, Greece
| | - M. Filiponi
- Department of Urology, ELPIS Hospital, Volos, Greece
| | - F. Dimitriadis
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - J. Giannakis
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - S. Skouros
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - P. Tsounapi
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan
| | - A. Takenaka
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Tottori University, Yonago, Japan
| | - N. Sofikitis
- Department of Urology, School of Medicine, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
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