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Vasconcelos PA, Paúl C, Nobre PJ. Biopsychosocial determinants of sexual health in older age: the role of health-related, relationship, and psychosexual factors. J Sex Med 2024; 21:420-429. [PMID: 38490973 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae027] [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: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given the unprecedented aging of the population and the increased focus on overall well-being in older age, investigating the determining factors of sexual well-being in older adults becomes essential as it offers insights into promoting healthy aging and overall quality of life. AIM By applying the biopsychosocial model of sexuality in older age, we aimed to identify the role of biomedical and psychosocial factors in predicting sexual well-being in partnered older adults (≥55 years old). METHODS A total of 111 participants (mean [SD], 63.2 [5.96]) completed a self-report questionnaire assessing biopsychosocial dimensions. Bivariate correlational analyses and hierarchical multiple regression were conducted to investigate factors associated with sexual well-being. Health-related factors were entered into the first regression model. The second model included factors pertaining to relationship dimensions. Sexual beliefs were introduced in the third regression model. OUTCOMES Self-rated health, psychological distress, subjective cognitive decline, sexual beliefs, duration of the relationship, relationship satisfaction, and sexual well-being were assessed. RESULTS Findings from the hierarchical regression revealed that duration of relationship [t(104) = -3.07, P < .01], relationship satisfaction [t(104) = 8.49, P < .001], and age-related sexual beliefs [t(104) = -2.75, P < .01] were significant predictors of sexual well-being of partnered older adults [F(6, 104) = 22.77, P < .001, R2 = .57], after controlling for health-related factors. These findings suggest that relationship factors and sexual beliefs play a significant role in predicting sexual well-being of older adults, above and beyond health-related dimensions. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Interventional approaches aimed at promoting sexual well-being in older age might benefit from incorporating exercises that demystify age-related sexual beliefs, by normalizing changes that occur with aging and fostering positive attitudes toward sexual expression in older age; particularly for older adults in long-term relationships, relationship satisfaction must also be considered as an important intervention target. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Further investigation using longitudinal designs is required to examine the causal links between these factors and sexual well-being in older age. CONCLUSION Findings from this study underscore the role of relationship dimensions and age-related sexual beliefs for the sexual well-being of partnered older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila A Vasconcelos
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto. Rua Alfredo Allen, Porto 4200-135, Portugal
| | - Constança Paúl
- Department of Behavioral Sciences, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto 4050-313, Portugal
| | - Pedro J Nobre
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto. Rua Alfredo Allen, Porto 4200-135, Portugal
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Rosa PJ, Peixoto MM, Carvalho J. Measuring Sexual Motivation as a Trait Dimension: A multisample study of the Portuguese (European) Version of the Trait Sexual Motivation Questionnaire. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2023; 49:960-977. [PMID: 37963196 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2023.2226130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
The current study aimed at translating and validating the TSMQ into Portuguese-European (TSMQ-PT) and to investigate its psychometric properties. Three online studies were conducted with independent samples collected between September 2020 and March 2022. Study 1 tested the exploratory factorial structure (N = 325; 206 women); Study 2 explored the confirmatory factorial structure and construct validity (N = 450; 230 women); and Study 3 examined the temporal stability of the TSMQ-PT (N = 30; 15 women). Participants completed the TSMQ-PT for all three studies. In study 2, further completed the Sexual Compulsivity Scale, the Sexual Sensation Seeking Scale, and the Sexual Desire Inventory. Data revealed that the TSMQ-PT yielded a four-structure model, (i.e., Sexually Oriented, Comparison with Others, Seeking for Sexual Encounters, and Importance of Sex) comprising 13 items, with seven additional items for assessing existence and number of sexual partners, and frequency of sexual behaviors. The TSMQ-PT achieved good internal consistency levels (McDonald's omega ranged from .71 to .89) and construct validity, and temporal stability over 10-11 months (values ranged from .80 to .87) supporting the trait-dimension of sexual motivation. Current findings support a brief, valid, and reliable self-report instrument for assessing sexual motivation in the Portuguese context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro J Rosa
- HEI-Lab: Digital Human-Environment Interaction Labs, Lusófona University, Lisbon, Portugal
- Instituto Superior Manuel Teixeira Gomes (ISMAT), Portimão, Portugal
| | - Maria Manuela Peixoto
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences , University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Carvalho
- Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences , University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- William James Center for Research, Department of Education and Psychology, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
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Vasconcelos P, Gomez Ponce de Leon R, Serruya SJ, Carneiro B, Nóbrega C, Pereira R, Quinta Gomes A, Paúl MC, Nobre PJ. A Systematic Review on Psychological Interventions for Sexual Health in Older Age. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2023; 35:399-413. [PMID: 38595928 PMCID: PMC10903596 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2023.2215766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objectives The present review aims to identify the existing evidence on outcome-treatment studies of psychological sexual health interventions in older age. Methods A systematic search was conducted for studies published until October 2022. Data search was conducted on EBSCO, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases. Results From 30,840 screened records, 12 reports were selected. Results were grouped into four categories according to the intervention that was implemented. Conclusions Despite results presenting some bias concerns, this review suggests that educational and cognitive-behavioral approaches seem to be effective for promoting sexual health in older age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Vasconcelos
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rodolfo Gomez Ponce de Leon
- Centro Latinoamericano de Perinatología, Salud de la Mujer y Reproductiva (CLAP-SMR/OPS-OMS), Montevideo,Uruguay
| | - Suzanne J. Serruya
- Centro Latinoamericano de Perinatología, Salud de la Mujer y Reproductiva (CLAP-SMR/OPS-OMS), Montevideo,Uruguay
| | - Bruna Carneiro
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Nóbrega
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Raquel Pereira
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Quinta Gomes
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Pedro J. Nobre
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Ševčíková A, Blinka L, Židlická A, Faltýnková A. Sexual Difficulties in People 50+: A Content Analysis of Sex-related Queries Posted on Professional Counseling Websites. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2023; 38:958-966. [PMID: 34615416 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2021.1984629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Although sexual activity has been found to be both important and challenging for people aged 50+, relatively little is known about the concerns that they have with respect to their sexual lives and how help-seeking behavior manifests on counseling platforms. A sample of 293 sex-related queries that Czechs aged 50+ posted on professional counseling websites were subjected to a quantitative and qualitative content analysis. The majority of posts were written by men and their dominant issues were erectile difficulties, partner's lack of interest in sex, and drug use/interaction when treating sexual difficulties and other ailments. Using a thematic analysis, the study showed that sex-related concerns were based within the context of worries about maintaining relationships and re-partnering in mid- and later life, and probing for the normal aspects of aging and the associated changes in sexual health. The online setting of the counseling websites facilitated the posting of both general and personalized queries to get oriented in problems, to triangulate with previous information, and to check the treatability of difficulties when past treatments failed. These findings suggest that online counseling puts a great demand on professionals' knowledge and understanding of the specifics of later-life sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ševčíková
- Institute for Research on Children, Youth and Family, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University
| | - Lukas Blinka
- Institute for Research on Children, Youth and Family, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University
| | - Anna Židlická
- Institute for Research on Children, Youth and Family, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University
| | - Anna Faltýnková
- Institute for Research on Children, Youth and Family, Faculty of Social Studies, Masaryk University
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Maldonado M, Nardi AE, Sardinha A. The Role of Vaginal Penetration Skills and Vaginal Penetration Behavior in Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2023; 49:816-828. [PMID: 36951274 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2023.2193587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal penetration skills and behavior are considered different aspects of vaginal penetration. Nevertheless, these terms are used interchangeably in most genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD) intervention studies, possibly impacting the assessment and selection of intervention outcomes. This is the first theoretical essay on the relevance of nonsexual vaginal penetration skills in understanding and treating GPPPD symptoms, mainly for patients with vaginismus complaints. We aim to provide avenues for further empirical research and new perspectives for assessing, preventing, and treating GPPPD symptoms. We highlight the conceptual boundaries, overlaps, and commonalities between vaginal penetration skills and vaginal penetration behavior and the implications for measuring and selecting GPPPD treatment outcomes. We then briefly explain vaginal penetration skills as a self-learning process and review the impact of fear, anxiety, and cognitive factors on GPPPD symptoms. We also outline the role of the nonsexual genital self-exploration skills in later penetration behavior and offer implications for a new GPPPD patient-centered treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Maldonado
- Sexual Dysfunction Nucleus in the Institute of Psychiatry (IPUB), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Antonio Egidio Nardi
- Institute of Psychiatry (IPUB), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Aline Sardinha
- Sexual Dysfunction Nucleus in the Institute of Psychiatry (IPUB), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Bonfanti RC, Garro M, Lavanco G, Ruggieri S. The role of sexting in couple wellbeing for Italian women during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1105556. [PMID: 36968735 PMCID: PMC10030598 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1105556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The social isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic had an impact on the sexuality and quality of life of people around the world. A particularly negative effect was detected on women’s sexual health. As a consequence, many women began to use social media not only to stay in touch with their social networks, but as a way of maintaining sexual contact. The main aim of this research is to observe the positive effects of sexting in women’s wellbeing as a strategy to manage the negative effects of a condition of forced isolation. We collected all our data between November 2020 and March 2021 during a period of strict restrictions in Italy due to the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Study 1, the relationship between loneliness, sexting behaviors, and sexual satisfaction was tested on 312 adult women. The results showed the mediator role of motivation for sexting in the relationship between loneliness and sexual satisfaction. In Study 2, 342 adult women were organized into two groups (women who had sexting at least once during the second wave of the pandemic = 203, and women who did not have sexting during the pandemic = 139) and were assessed on a couple’s wellbeing (intimacy, passion, commitment, and couple satisfaction) and electronic surveillance. The results show that women who had sexting during isolation had higher scores on intimacy, passion, couple satisfaction, and electronic surveillance. These findings suggest the important role of sexting as an adaptive coping strategy during particular conditions of social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubinia Celeste Bonfanti
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maria Garro
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
- *Correspondence: Maria Garro,
| | - Gioacchino Lavanco
- Department of Psychology, Educational Science and Human Movement, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Stefano Ruggieri
- Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, Kore University of Enna, Enna, Italy
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Mohammadzadeh Z, Khakbazan Z, Rad M, Farnam F. Comparison of pain catastrophizing and anxiety in patients with dyspareunia and healthy women: a cross-sectional study. J Med Life 2023; 16:220-226. [PMID: 36937475 PMCID: PMC10015566 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the prominent role of cognitive-affective variables, such as pain catastrophizing and anxiety in chronic pain, little is known about their relationship with dyspareunia. This study compared pain-catastrophizing and anxiety in reproductive-aged women with and without dyspareunia. A controlled cross-sectional study was conducted on 398 married women in Iran selected by convenience sampling. Sampling was performed both online and in person. Data were collected using a checklist designed for the study, including background characteristics, self-reported dyspareunia, and two standard questionnaires: the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS) and the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-6 (STAI-6). Results showed that 49.5% of the women reported dyspareunia in the previous six months, with a reduced figure of 42% and 31% when using more specific criteria for dyspareunia. Women with dyspareunia had significantly higher scores for pain catastrophizing and anxiety than the control group without dyspareunia. Pain-catastrophizing was associated with aversion to genital contact and body image dissatisfaction. Anxiety was correlated with age, marriage duration, and sexual abuse. Managing anxiety and catastrophizing thoughts may help dyspareunia patients better cope with pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Mohammadzadeh
- Reproductive Health and Midwifery Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Social Security Organization, East Azerbaijan Treatment Management, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Khakbazan
- Reproductive Health and Midwifery Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Rad
- Oral and Dental Diseases Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Farnaz Farnam
- Reproductive Health and Midwifery Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Corresponding Author: Farnaz Farnam, Reproductive Health and Midwifery Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. E-mail: ;
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Erdős C, Kelemen O, Pócs D, Horváth E, Dudás N, Papp A, Paulik E. Female Sexual Dysfunction in Association with Sexual History, Sexual Abuse and Satisfaction: A Cross-Sectional Study in Hungary. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12031112. [PMID: 36769759 PMCID: PMC9918233 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12031112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has a negative impact on women's quality of life, self-esteem, and physical health. The aim of the present study was to explore the prevalence and the factors associated with FSD using an online questionnaire. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among young adults (18-35 years old) in Hungary using the DSM-5 criteria. The participants (n = 5942) were divided into three major groups: FSD (20.3%), an intermediate group (43.9%), and a control group (35.6%). Most of the women showing FSD were affected with female orgasmic disorder (9.2%) and genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (4.6%), while female sexual interest/arousal disorder was found in altogether 100 women (1.7%); 4.8% of women were affected by more than one definite disorder. The occurrence of female sexual dysfunction was related to the women's previous sexual history (first sexual experience, sexual education, early encounter with pornographic content, and sexual abuse), their self-satisfaction (with their own body, genitalia, and sexual attraction), and their sexual orientation. Sexual dysfunction showed a strong association with abuse, sexually transmitted diseases, and self-esteem. The present study identified the relationship between sexual dysfunctions and other health conditions, which can be the basis for some form of screening and early assistance programs for FSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Csaba Erdős
- Department of Public Health, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Oguz Kelemen
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +36-62-42-0530; Fax: +36-62-54-5968
| | - Dávid Pócs
- Department of Behavioural Sciences, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Edina Horváth
- Family Medicine Department, University of Szeged, 6725 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Nóra Dudás
- Department of Psychiatry, Ödön Jávorszky Hospital, 2600 Vác, Hungary
| | - András Papp
- Department of Public Health, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Edit Paulik
- Department of Public Health, Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical School, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
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Eserdag S, Ezberci Akgün M, Şükrü Gürbüz F. Outcomes of Vaginismus Therapy Assessed by Penetrative Intercourse, Psychiatric Symptoms, and Marital Satisfaction. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2023; 49:412-419. [PMID: 36154867 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2022.2127384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the treatment outcomes of the patients with primary vaginismus in a specialized clinic. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT), finger exercises, and vaginal dilators were used. Symptom Checklist-90 Revised, Martial Adjustment Inventory, Female Sexual Function Index and Golombok-Rust Index for Sexual Satisfaction were applied pre-and post-treatment. Twenty-three patients were enrolled. All patients achieved sexual intercourse at the end of the treatment. After treatment, the results improved in the SCL-90 R test and sexual function indexes Marriage adjustment scores did not improve. With vaginismus, improvement in psychological scores emphasizes the importance of sexual therapy in couples having sexual dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Süleyman Eserdag
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Altinbas University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Merve Ezberci Akgün
- Department of Psychology, Beykent University Institute of Social Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Filiz Şükrü Gürbüz
- Department of Psychology, Beykent University Institute of Social Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
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Yessick LR, Gauvin S, Salomons TV, Pukall CF. Pain Characteristics, Sexual Script Flexibility, and Penetration Control Cognitions in Those Experiencing Anodyspareunia. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2022.2118069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Stéphanie Gauvin
- Department of Psychology, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tim V. Salomons
- Department of Psychology, Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Bell AR, Giil E, Træen B. Reduced Sexual Desire in Young Norwegian Women: A Mixed-Methods Study. SEXUALITY & CULTURE 2022; 26:1919-1939. [PMID: 35669850 PMCID: PMC9159043 DOI: 10.1007/s12119-022-09977-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Sexuality has become an area of social competence in which individuals strive to be recognized as sexually competent performers. However, a large proportion of young women experience reduced sexual desire. In this study, both quantitative and qualitative methods were applied. Using data from a questionnaire, the aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of, and the factors associated with, lack of sexual interest and desire among young women in Norway. Further, with the help of in-depth interviews, we investigated how young women with reduced sexual desire experience living with their desire problems and what they experience as the cause of their problems. The sample in the quantitative study consisted of 505 Norwegian women between the ages of 18 and 29 years. ANOVA was employed to explore differences in scores on psychological factors and relational factors, as well as between participants who experienced a lack of sexual interest and desire, and those who did not. The results indicate a high prevalence of lack of sexual interest and desire among women (37.1%), while low appearance satisfaction and low relationship satisfaction were central predictors of lack of sexual interest and desire. The sample in the qualitative study consisted of ten Norwegian women with reduced sexual desire between the ages of 18 and 29 years. Through thematic analysis, four themes emerged as experiences of living with reduced sexual desire: (1) physical and mental health, (2) being a young woman in today's society, (3) relational factors, (4) negative experiences, personal expectations toward sexuality, and sexual trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Rebecca Bell
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Blindern, P.O Box 1094, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Ebba Giil
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Blindern, P.O Box 1094, 0317 Oslo, Norway
| | - Bente Træen
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Blindern, P.O Box 1094, 0317 Oslo, Norway
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12
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Valeiro C, Matos C, Scholl J, van Hunsel F. Drug-Induced Sexual Dysfunction: An Analysis of Reports to a National Pharmacovigilance Database. Drug Saf 2022; 45:639-650. [PMID: 35386045 DOI: 10.1007/s40264-022-01174-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a problem that can affect any phase of the sexual response cycle (such as sexual desire, arousal and orgasm) and individuals of any age. SD can be caused by physical reasons, such as medical conditions, alcoholism or drug abuse; psychological factors, such as stress and anxiety; and different medicines, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and their associated adverse effects. AIM The aim of this study was to characterise drugs suspected to have caused SD adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in patients, by conducting a descriptive study based on pharmacovigilance reports. METHODS Reports submitted to the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb from January 2003 to December 2019 were used to investigate drug-induced sexual disorders. Selected reports had at least one ADR reported in the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA®) System Organ Class (SOC) 'Reproductive system and breast disorders' and the SOC 'Psychiatric disorders' relating to sexual disorders and corrected for drug utilisation (expenditure) for the Dutch population. RESULTS A total of 2815 SD ADRs were reported in the observed period. Data were divided according to three variables: pharmacotherapeutic group, the drug itself, and sex. A total of 722 different SD/pharmacotherapeutic group pairs were observed. The pharmacotherapeutic groups with the highest frequency of SD reports were SSRIs (n = 488, 17.58%), other antidepressants (n = 172, 6.20%) and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (n = 149, 5.37%). Distinguishing ADRs by sex, men suffered more from erectile dysfunction, decreased libido and ejaculation disorders, while among women, libido disorders, dyspareunia and SD were the most common ADRs. CONCLUSION Different reactions and disproportionality of reactions were detected between the sexes. Antidepressants, antihypertensives, oral contraceptives, α-blockers, and anti-androgens were the pharmacotherapeutic groups with the highest number of SD reports and corresponding high odds ratios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Valeiro
- Instituto Politécnico De Coimbra, ESTESC-Coimbra Health School, Farmácia, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cristiano Matos
- Instituto Politécnico De Coimbra, ESTESC-Coimbra Health School, Farmácia, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Joep Scholl
- Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Florence van Hunsel
- Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
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Delgado Amaro H, Alvarez MJ, Ferreira JA. Sexual gender roles and stereotypes and the sexual double standard in sexual satisfaction among Portuguese college students: an exploratory study. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2022.2039271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Delgado Amaro
- Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciências da Educação, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Portugal
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14
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Fischer N, Træen B. Prevalence of Sexual Difficulties and Related Distress and Their Association with Sexual Avoidance in Norway. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 34:27-40. [PMID: 38595676 PMCID: PMC10903600 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1926040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Aim To assess the prevalence of sexual difficulties and related distress, the association between sexual difficulties and sexual avoidance, and to establish whether sexual difficulties and sexual avoidance are moderated by relationship satisfaction. Methods This study included a sample of 4160 adults aged 18-89 years enrolled from a randomly selected web panel of 11,685 Norwegians. Results Sexual difficulties were particularly common among adults aged <30 years. In men and women, lack of interest in sex and general sexual distress were associated with more sexual avoidance. The association between lack of sexual interest and sexual avoidance was, however, buffered by relationship satisfaction. Climaxing too early was related to less sexual avoidance in both genders. Yet for men, this association was only significant among those with lower relationship satisfaction. Conclusion The findings underline the important links among specific sexual difficulties, sexual distress, and the frequency of avoiding sexual activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nantje Fischer
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bente Træen
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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15
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Chinchilla Alfaro K, van Hunsel F, Ekhart C. Persistent sexual dysfunction after SSRI withdrawal: a scoping review and presentation of 86 cases from the Netherlands. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2021; 21:553-561. [PMID: 34791958 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2022.2007883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent worldwide. A specific form is persistent sexual dysfunction after SSRI withdrawal. We conducted a systematic literature review in order to characterize factors related to post SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) and analyzed spontaneous reports of persistent sexual dysfunction reported to the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Center Lareb. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. In addition, reports of PSSD submitted to the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Center Lareb between 1992 and 2021 were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 237 articles were retrieved through the search and 33 articles were selected for inclusion in this review, in accordance with the inclusion criteria. Information regarding the characteristics of the condition, its clinical management, patient characteristics, and impact of PSSD is presented. A total of 86 reports of persistent sexual dysfunction were analyzed. The longest case being a patient with PSSD for 23 years. The main symptoms were: loss or decreased libido (n = 53), erectile dysfunction (n = 23) and anorgasmia (n = 5). CONCLUSIONS PSSD impact includes sexual, psychological, and social consequences. Little is known about the mechanisms underlying PSSD and no effective treatment exists. It is necessary to increase recognition of PSSD among prescribers and improve its management at the clinical level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Florence van Hunsel
- Signal Detection Department, Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 'S-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
| | - Corine Ekhart
- Signal Detection Department, Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb, 'S-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands
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16
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Peixoto MM. Female sexual desire and trait-affect: the mediator role of depressed mood. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2021.1998421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuela Peixoto
- Centro de Investigação em Psicologia para o Desenvolvimento Positivo, Instituto de Psicologia e Ciências da Educação, Universidades Lusíada - Porto, Porto, Portugal
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17
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von Humboldt S, Mendoza-Ruvalcaba NM, Ribeiro-Gonçalves JA, Chávez-Rodríguez A, Low G, Leal I. How Do Older Portuguese and Mexican Adults Experience Their Sexual Well-Being? A Cross-Cultural Qualitative Study. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:2679-2689. [PMID: 34453260 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-01994-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Sexual well-being (SWB) refers to the subjective emotional and cognitive evaluation of the quality of the individual's sexuality. SWB plays a relevant role in quality of life and health promotion on old age and has cross-cultural implications. In addition to the scarcity of in-depth qualitative studies in this area and studies with cross-cultural samples, no studies have compared perceptions of SWB among Portuguese and Mexican older adults. The aim of this study was to comparatively analyze perspectives on SWB among older adults residing in Portugal and Mexico. Data were collected from 86 Portuguese and 80 Mexican community-dwelling participants aged 65 years and older, using a semi-structured interview protocol. Older adults were asked about factors that significantly contribute to their SWB. Sociodemographic data were also gathered. Content analysis was used to identify key themes. Eight themes were identified across both studied samples: eroticism, supportive relationship, positive self-concept, health and self-care, romance, active life, tenderness and care, and no pain and no pregnancy restrictions. Eroticism was most pertinent to Portuguese participants (31.4%). Health and self-care was most frequently reported by Mexican participants (26.5%). The findings of this study indicate that SWB is strongly influenced by sociocultural and psychosocial values. Cross-cultural comparisons between older Portuguese and Mexican people provide a broader understanding of SWB in older age and suggest a scenario for future culture-adapted interventions and comprehensive policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia von Humboldt
- William James Research Center, ISPA-Instituto Universitário, Rua Jardim do Tabaco, 34, 1149-041, Lisbon, Portugal.
| | | | | | | | - Gail Low
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Isabel Leal
- William James Research Center, ISPA-Instituto Universitário, Rua Jardim do Tabaco, 34, 1149-041, Lisbon, Portugal
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18
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Women's Sexual Health During the Pandemic of COVID-19: Declines in Sexual Function and Sexual Pleasure. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2021; 13:76-88. [PMID: 34248426 PMCID: PMC8254666 DOI: 10.1007/s11930-021-00309-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of the Review The World Health Association declared COVID-19 a pandemic more than 1 year ago. We conducted a systematic review of the literature on the topic of women’s sexual health during the pandemic, with a focus on sexual function and sexual pleasure. Our aim is to describe current findings and to discuss implications for women’s sexual health during this period. Recent Findings Thirty-four articles, from 18 countries, were identified. These studies addressed topics ranging from individual aspects, such as cognitive, emotional, and personality factors affecting sexuality during the pandemic, to contextual factors, including relationship, childrearing, and employment status in this period. Summary Research identified a deterioration of women’s sexual function across countries, with an emphasis on sexual desire. Most studies found decreases in the frequency of sexual intercourse during the pandemic and increases in solitary sexual behavior. Many women also experienced declines in sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction. Findings suggested that gender inequalities contributed to lower indices of sexual function and satisfaction, and might have exacerbated the pleasure gap between men and women.
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19
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Koops TU, Briken P. "A Woman Should Still Be a Woman" - A Grounded Theory of the Origins of Sexual Pain and Difficulties with Intercourse. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2021; 47:707-720. [PMID: 34176446 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2021.1942348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The origin of women's sexual pain and difficulties with intercourse is still under-researched. The aim of this study was to examine women's constructions of origins. Twenty-eight participants previously diagnosed with vaginismus or dyspareunia were recruited via patient lists and private practices. Interviews had a semi-structured biographic-narrative format; transcripts were analyzed using Grounded Theory. Participants' narratives were constructed based on two major processes: Negotiating Womanhood and Othering the Body. They were integrated in an explanatory model. Identified processes permeated women's subjective experience and construction of the origin of their sexual difficulties, and were related to societal discourses and women's embodied experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thula U Koops
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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20
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Koops TU, Wiessner C, Ehrenthal JC, Briken P. Assessing Psychodynamic Conflicts and Level of Personality Functioning in Women Diagnosed With Vaginismus and Dyspareunia. Front Psychol 2021; 12:687369. [PMID: 34248792 PMCID: PMC8264788 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.687369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Knowledge on etiological and risk factors of genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder, formerly classified as dyspareunia and vaginismus, is limited. The Operationalized Psychodynamic Diagnosis (OPD) system offers a valuable basis for developmental considerations, and has not yet been used to research sexual pain difficulties in women. We conducted an exploratory pilot study of psychodynamic motivational conflicts and level of personality functioning as defined by the OPD system by means of an anonymous online survey among 24 women who had been diagnosed with dyspareunia or vaginismus. We matched them with 24 healthy controls and compared groups using paired-samples t-tests and Wilcoxon tests. Effect sizes were calculated using Pearson's r. Large effect sizes were found for mean or median differences of several OPD Structure Questionnaire (OPD-SQ) scales (self-reflection, p = 0.002/r = 0.59; affect differentiation, p = 0.007/r = 0.53; self-perception, p = 0.002/r = 0.58; impulse control, p = 0.007/r = 0.53; self-worth regulation, p = 0.008/r = 0.52; self-regulation, p = 0.004/r = 0.56; experiencing affect, p = 0.009/r = 0.53; bodily self, p = 0.008/r = 0.54; OPD-SQ total score, p = 0.007/r = 0.52; internal communication, p = 0.001/r = 0.63) and OPD Conflict Questionnaire (OPD-CQ) scales (guilt conflict active, p = 0.004/r = 0.60; Oedipal conflict passive, p = 0.009/r = 0.51; individuation versus dependency conflict active, p = 0.01/r = 0.52; guilt conflict passive, p < 0.001/r = 0.70; self-worth conflict passive, p = 0.001/r = 0.70; passive mode, p < 0.001/r = 0.68). The problems with personality functioning and more pronounced types of conflicts participants displayed suggest proneness for self-invalidation, internalization and restricted self-perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thula U Koops
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Wiessner
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.,Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research, Sexual Medicine, and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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21
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Candeias P, Alarcão V, Stefanovska-Petkovska M, Santos O, Virgolino A, Pintassilgo S, Pascoal PM, Costa AS, Machado FL. Reducing Sexual and Reproductive Health Inequities Between Natives and Migrants: A Delphi Consensus for Sustainable Cross-Cultural Healthcare Pathways. Front Public Health 2021; 9:656454. [PMID: 34055720 PMCID: PMC8155376 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.656454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing number of international migrants (ranging from 153 million in 1990 to ~272 million in 2019) brought to attention the wide variation of national contexts concerning the policy measures to protect migrants' rights and ensuring their equal access to basic and essential services, namely in health. Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) is a key component to the overall health and quality of life and is impacted by power inequities inherent to society's institutions, environment, economics, and culture. In Portugal, guidelines for intervention in SRH are insufficient, a gap that is more pronounced with migrant populations due to the absence of culturally sensitive indicators to assess and monitor SRH. The aim of this work was 2-fold: to identify good practices in the SRH field, with a particular focus, whenever possible, on migrant populations, and to identify relevant and inclusive indicators to monitor SRH in Portugal. A Delphi panel (via online survey) with 66 experts (researchers, teachers, and health professionals) and 16 stakeholders (non-governmental organizations, civil society, and governmental organizations) was implemented in two rounds. Panelists were asked to state their level of agreement (5-point Likert-type scale) regarding four different SRH areas: Sexual Health, Reproductive Health, Social-Structural Factors, and Good Practices. Items were based on literature review and a World Café with 15 experts and stakeholders. Participation rate was 68% and response rate was 97% on the first round. From the initial list of 142 items, a total of 118 (83%) items were approved by consensus. Findings may provide extended opportunities for the healthcare system to engage in better informed decisions and more inclusive and integrative strategies regarding SRH, contributing to build political measures toward sexual and reproductive justice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Candeias
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Violeta Alarcão
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação e Estudos de Sociologia, ISCTE - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - Osvaldo Santos
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Unbreakable Idea Research, Painho, Portugal
| | - Ana Virgolino
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sónia Pintassilgo
- Centro de Investigação e Estudos de Sociologia, ISCTE - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Patrícia M. Pascoal
- Centro de Investigação em Ciência Psicológica, Faculdade de Psicologia, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Digital Human-Environment Interaction Lab, Universidade Lusófona, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Andreia Silva Costa
- Instituto de Saúde Ambiental, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro de Investigação, Inovação e Desenvolvimento em Enfermagem de Lisboa, Escola Superior de Enfermagem de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Fernando Luís Machado
- Centro de Investigação e Estudos de Sociologia, ISCTE - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa (ISCTE-IUL), Lisboa, Portugal
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22
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Vasconcelos PA, Ramos C, Paúl C, Nobre PJ. Sexual Conservatism and Sexual Satisfaction in Older Women: A Cross-Sectional Mediation Analysis. Clin Gerontol 2021; 44:249-258. [PMID: 33478374 DOI: 10.1080/07317115.2021.1872755] [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] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: The present study aims to assess the relationship between age and sexual satisfaction in older women and testing the potential mediating role of conservative sexual beliefs on this association.Methods: A total of 106 women (Mage = 68.71; SD = 6.31) completed measures of sexual beliefs (SDBQ), sexual functioning (FSFI), and sexual satisfaction (GMSEX). Bivariate correlation analyses were performed to assess the association between age, sexual conservatism, sexual satisfaction, and sexual function. Mediation analysis with bootstrap samples was performed to test the mediating effect of sexual conservatism.Results: Findings suggest a mediating effect of conservative sexual beliefs on the relationship between age and sexual satisfaction in a community-based sample of older women (F(3,102) = 9.31, p <.001, R2 = .215).Conclusions: The negative association between sexual conservatism and sexual satisfaction of the participants, and the non-significance of the direct effect of age in sexual satisfaction when including sexual conservatism in the mediation model, highlight the relevance of cognitive factors in sexual health in later life.Clinical Implications: Results such as the mediating role of sexual conservatism on the relationship between age and sexual satisfaction provide opportunities for developing and testing sexual health programs based on the demystification of sexual beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila A Vasconcelos
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Catarina Ramos
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Pedro J Nobre
- Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Center for Psychology at University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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23
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Graham CA, Štulhofer A, Lange T, Hald GM, Carvalheira AA, Enzlin P, Træen B. Prevalence and Predictors of Sexual Difficulties and Associated Distress Among Partnered, Sexually Active Older Women in Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2020; 49:2951-2961. [PMID: 32533517 PMCID: PMC7641931 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01742-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
There has been little comparative, cross-cultural research on sexual difficulties and associated distress, and factors associated with these, among older women. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate prevalence rates of sexual difficulties, distress related to these difficulties, and associated sociodemographic, relational, and health factors, among sexually active older women (60-75 years) in committed relationships across four European countries (Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal). These data could inform us about what differentiates women who do and do not experience distressing sexual difficulties and facilitate the identification of older women who might benefit from clinical interventions as well as the development of new interventions. In total, 1057 women (357 Norwegian; 322 Danish; 237 Belgian; 141 Portuguese) completed a cross-sectional questionnaire assessing six sexual difficulties-vaginal dryness, orgasmic difficulties, lacking interest in sex, lacking enjoyment in sex, pain during sex, and no excitement/arousal during sex-and associated distress. We found a high prevalence of sexual difficulties lasting 3 months or longer in the past year (between 23.5 and 50.2%, depending on the specific difficulty). With the exception of vaginal dryness and pain during sex, however, the majority of women reporting sexual difficulties (50.0% to 86.1%, depending on the specific difficulty) reported no or mild distress. There were relatively few cross-country differences, either in the prevalence of sexual difficulties or related distress. Few sociodemographic or health variables were associated with distressing sexual difficulties, but higher sexual intimacy, higher emotional intimacy, and better mental health were associated with less distress about some sexual difficulties. The findings underline the importance of healthcare professionals asking older women about sexual function and especially associated distress, and suggest that careful attention to the psychological and relationship context of these sexual difficulties is needed, as these could be important targets in the treatment process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia A Graham
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Shackleton Building (B44), Room 44/3073, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK.
| | | | - Theis Lange
- Section of Biostatistics, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Gert Martin Hald
- Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Paul Enzlin
- Department of Neurosciences, KU Leuven, Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bente Træen
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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24
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Cognitive-Affective Factors and Female Orgasm: A Comparative Study on Women With and Without Orgasm Difficulties. J Sex Med 2020; 17:2220-2228. [PMID: 32896501 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Orgasmic difficulties are one of the most common sexual complaints among women. Although models of sexual dysfunction propose that cognitive-affective factors are involved in the development and maintenance of sexual difficulties, there is a need to further examine how these factors are associated with orgasmic difficulties specifically. AIM To analyze differences between women who reported orgasm difficulties and controls in regard to sexual inhibition, sexual excitation, sexual beliefs, as well as negative automatic thoughts and affect during sexual activity. METHODS A total of 500 women, aged 18 to 72 years, completed a Web survey focused on cognitive-affective factors and sexual health. Two hundred fifty women reported orgasm difficulties and were compared with 250 age-matched women who reported no sexual difficulties. OUTCOMES Differences between groups regarding sexual inhibition and sexual excitation (Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales-Short Form), sexual beliefs (Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire), negative automatic thoughts (Automatic Thoughts Subscale of the Sexual Modes Questionnaire), and affect (Positive and Negative Affect Schedule) during sexual activity. RESULTS Women with orgasm difficulties scored higher on sexual inhibition than controls. They also reported more negative automatic thoughts during sexual activity (concerning failure and disengagement, sexual abuse, lack of affection from partner, passivity, body image) and less erotic thoughts. Women with orgasm difficulties reported experiencing higher negative affect and lower positive affect during sexual activity than women who reported no sexual difficulties. No significant differences were found regarding sexual excitation and endorsement of sexual beliefs. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Helping women shift their focus from non-erotic, negative thoughts to erotic stimuli, as well as addressing sexual inhibition, can be relevant targets of interventions aimed at women's orgasm difficulties. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Strengths of the study include the use of a large sample of women who reported orgasm difficulties, offering new insights into the clinical importance of these psychological processes. Limitations include the reliance on self-report measures and a relatively homogeneous sample regarding sexual orientation, education, and age. CONCLUSION Results highlight the role of cognitive-affective factors on women's orgasm difficulties and emphasize the potential benefit of cognitive-behavioral and/or mindfulness interventions for orgasm difficulties. Moura CV, Tavares IM, Nobre PJ. Cognitive-Affective Factors and Female Orgasm: A Comparative Study on Women With and Without Orgasm Difficulties. J Sex Med 2020;17:2220-2228.
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25
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Li W, Li S, Lu P, Chen H, Zhang Y, Cao Y, Li G. Sexual dysfunction and health condition in Chinese doctor: prevalence and risk factors. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15180. [PMID: 32938977 PMCID: PMC7494859 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72072-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
To our knowledge, little attention has been paid to the sexual function of health workers. The aim of the present study was to assess the frequency of sexual dysfunction among Chinese doctors. In addition, the risk factors for sexual dysfunction were analyzed. This was a questionnaire-based multicenter cross-sectional survey performed in five large academic medical centers in China. A total of 539 male doctors, 547 female doctors were evaluated. We analyzed doctors' demographic characteristics, quality of life, sexual function and attitudes towards sexual problems. Chinese doctors are at high risk of sexual dysfunction and poor health. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction appears to increase with age, and is associated with various social and demographic factors including monthly income, physical exercise, working hours, night shift and health-related quality. The quality of life and sexual health of doctors deserves special attention as a significant public health concern. Alleviating work pressure, increasing income, improving quality of life and therapeutic sexual problems should be considered comprehensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiran Li
- Institute of Dermatology and Department of Dermatology, the First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Key Laboratory of Dermatology, Anhui Medical University, Ministry of Education, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Shixing Li
- Norman Bethune Health Science Center of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China.,China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Pengfei Lu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Xingjiang Medical University, Wulumuqi, Xingjiang, China.,Xingjiang Medical University, Wulumuqi, Xingjiang, China
| | - Haibin Chen
- Jiangsu Province Hospital, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China.,The First Affiliated Hospital With Jiangsu Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yunyu Zhang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yu Cao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Guanjian Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China. .,Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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26
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Carvalheira A, Graham C, Stulhofer A, Traen B. Predictors and correlates of sexual avoidance among partnered older adults among Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal. Eur J Ageing 2020; 17:175-184. [PMID: 32549872 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-019-00540-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Research on sex in later life has been concerned with documenting that older people continue to have sex and establishing the links between good health and sexual activity. Although sexual avoidance is common in clinical and nonclinical populations of older adults, little attention has been given to the motives for sexual avoidance. To address gaps in the literature on sexual avoidance, the present study explored the self-reported reasons for, and correlates of, sexual avoidance in older partnered individuals with probability samples of 60-75-year-olds in four European countries (Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Portugal). Results revealed significant differences between men and women in sexual avoidance, with women reporting more avoidance than men. The main reasons reported for avoiding sex were sexual difficulties, health problems, partner's sexual difficulties, and lack of sexual interest. Among men, significant predictors of sexual avoidance were age, relationship intimacy (the only relational predictor), physical health, and own and partner's sexual problems. In women, significant predictors of sexual avoidance were age, relationship duration, relationship satisfaction, relationship intimacy, physical and mental health, and own and partner's sexual problems. Thus, in men, health-related factors were more important predictors of sexual avoidance than relationship factors. In women, relationship factors were as important as health-related factors. These findings provide insight into an under-researched area. They also have important implications for health care and could inform the development of tailored sexual health interventions in older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carvalheira
- William James Center for Research, ISPA - Instituto Universitário, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Cynthia Graham
- Department of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, England
| | | | - Bente Traen
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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27
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Correction to: Emotional intimacy and sexual well-being in aging European couples: a cross-cultural mediation analysis. Eur J Ageing 2020; 17:139-150. [PMID: 32549869 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-020-00568-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1007/s10433-019-00509-x.].
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28
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McNabney SM, Hevesi K, Rowland DL. Effects of Pornography Use and Demographic Parameters on Sexual Response during Masturbation and Partnered Sex in Women. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17093130. [PMID: 32365874 PMCID: PMC7246896 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17093130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The effect of pornography on sexual response is understudied, particularly among women. A multinational, community-based sample of 2433 women at least 18 years of age completed a 42-item, opt-in questionnaire collecting information on demographic and sexual history characteristics, use of pornography during masturbation, frequency of pornography use, and sexual response parameters. Pornography use and average frequency were compared across demographic variables. We also examined how pornography frequency predicted differences in self-reported arousal difficulty; orgasmic difficulty, latency, and pleasure; and the percent of sexual activities ending in orgasm during both masturbation and partnered sex. On average, women using pornography were younger, and reported more interest in sex. Pornography frequency differed significantly by menopausal status, sexual orientation, anxiety/depression status, number of sexual partners, and origin of data collection. During masturbation, more frequent pornography use predicted lower arousal difficulty and orgasmic difficulty, greater pleasure, and a higher percentage of masturbatory events leading to orgasm. Frequency of pornography use predicted only lower arousal difficulty and longer orgasmic latencies during partnered sex, having no effect on the other outcome variables. Pornography use frequency did not predict overall relationship satisfaction or sexual relationship satisfaction. Overall, more frequent pornography use was generally associated with more favorable sexual response outcomes during masturbation, while not affecting most partnered sex parameters. Several demographic and relationship covariates appear to more consistently and strongly predict orgasmic problems during partnered sexual activity than pornography use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean M. McNabney
- Department of Psychology, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383, USA;
| | - Krisztina Hevesi
- Department of Psychology and Education, Eötvös Loránd University, 1075 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - David L. Rowland
- Department of Psychology, Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, IN 46383, USA;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-219-464-5446
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Štulhofer A, Jurin T, Graham C, Janssen E, Træen B. Emotional intimacy and sexual well-being in aging European couples: a cross-cultural mediation analysis. Eur J Ageing 2020. [PMID: 32158371 DOI: 10.1007/s10902-018-0049-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual health research tends to focus on problematic aspects of sexuality. This also applies to research on sexuality in older men and women, where attention has been primarily on the negative impact of aging. To contribute to the emerging interest in positive (successful) sexual aging, we aimed to: (1) further validate a recently developed 5-dimensional measure of sexual well-being (Štulhofer et al. in J Happiness Stud, 2018. 10.1007/s10902-018-0049-1) and (2) explore the structure of associations among emotional intimacy, frequency of sexual intercourse, and sexual well-being in older European couples. Using data from a 2016 community-based survey of 218 Norwegian, 207 Danish, 135 Belgian, and 117 Portuguese couples aged 60-75 years, we applied actor-partner interdependence structural modeling approach to confirm the validity of the sexual well-being measure in couples and explore a path analytic model in which the frequency of sexual intercourse was hypothesized to mediate the association between emotional intimacy and sexual well-being. Although we observed consistent and significant actor effects, with emotional intimacy and frequency of sexual intercourse predicting both male and female partners' sexual well-being across countries, the proposed mediation was observed only in Norwegian and Portuguese men and Norwegian and Belgian women. Partner effects were gender-specific; male partner's emotional intimacy was related to his female partner's reported frequency of sex and sexual well-being but not the other way around. Apart from being one of the few cross-cultural assessments of successful sexual aging, this study's findings support the use of a new sexual well-being measure in research on older adults' sexuality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Štulhofer
- 1Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, I. Lučića 3, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Tanja Jurin
- 2Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Cynthia Graham
- 3Department of Psychology, Centre for Sexual Health Research, University of Southampton, Southampton, England UK
| | - Erick Janssen
- 4Department of Neurosciences, Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies, University of Leuven, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Bente Træen
- 5Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: A Population-Based Study of Iranian Women. J Sex Med 2019; 16:1068-1077. [PMID: 31155386 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To date, few studies have investigated the prevalence of sexual pain in the context of the new diagnostic concept of genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD). AIM To evaluate the prevalence of GPPPD and its associated factors. METHODS This was a population-based, cross-sectional study of 590 healthy married women age 18-70 years conducted between May and October 2017 in Tehran, Iran. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Research tools included demographic characteristics checklist, factors affecting GPPPD, sexual distress and self-reporting of pain during intercourse, 2 standard questionnaires on depression (Patient Health Questionnaire 9) and Binik's guideline for the diagnosis of GPPPD. RESULTS 196 women (33%) reported pain or fear in answer to self-report questions. Administration of Binik's guideline yielded a GPPPD prevalence of 16% (n = 94 women); however, this number decreased to 62 women (10.5%) when sexual distress was taken into account; thus, the final prevalence of GPPPD was considered to be 10.5%. However, if the threshold in Binik's guideline was lowered to also include those reporting "somewhat" pain in addition to the group reporting "moderate" and "quite a bit or always," then the prevalence of GPPPD increased to 25.8%. The results of backward logistic regression identified a strong aversion to looking at or touching the genitalia (odd ratio [OR] = 4.3), low sexual satisfaction (OR = 3.1), and severe depression (OR = 6.6) as independent risk factors for a diagnosis of GPPPD and secure financial status (OR = 0.3) and a high level of marital satisfaction (OR = 0.2) as protective factors against a diagnosis of GPPPD. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Reliable diagnosis of GPPPD is crucial. Application of validated tools may mitigate the overestimation of GPPPD prevalence. Simultaneously, clinicians' judgment is essential in assessing a reasonable threshold and preventing underestimation that leads to the exclusion of women suffering from pain. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS The present study is one of the few evaluating the prevalence of GPPPD according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) definition and Binik's guideline. The study also aims to point out some new perspectives on merging the 2 concepts of vaginismus and dyspareunia. Study limitations include the evaluation of factors affecting GPPPD based on self-reporting and possible recall bias. CONCLUSION Further research is needed to determine the appropriate threshold for a diagnosis of GPPPD. We suggest that a woman with mild to moderate pain or fear of vaginal penetration is under sexual distress and cannot be neglected. In addition, problems may arise following the DSM-5 merging of the 2 disorders of vaginismus and dyspareunia, owing to the significant prevalence and distress of lifelong vaginismus in some cultures. Alizadeh A, Farnam F, Raisi F, et al. Prevalence of and Risk Factors for Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: A Population-Based Study of Iranian Women.J Sex Med 2019;16:1068-1077.
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Emotional intimacy and sexual well-being in aging European couples: a cross-cultural mediation analysis. Eur J Ageing 2019; 17:43-54. [PMID: 32158371 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-019-00509-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexual health research tends to focus on problematic aspects of sexuality. This also applies to research on sexuality in older men and women, where attention has been primarily on the negative impact of aging. To contribute to the emerging interest in positive (successful) sexual aging, we aimed to: (1) further validate a recently developed 5-dimensional measure of sexual well-being (Štulhofer et al. in J Happiness Stud, 2018. 10.1007/s10902-018-0049-1) and (2) explore the structure of associations among emotional intimacy, frequency of sexual intercourse, and sexual well-being in older European couples. Using data from a 2016 community-based survey of 218 Norwegian, 207 Danish, 135 Belgian, and 117 Portuguese couples aged 60-75 years, we applied actor-partner interdependence structural modeling approach to confirm the validity of the sexual well-being measure in couples and explore a path analytic model in which the frequency of sexual intercourse was hypothesized to mediate the association between emotional intimacy and sexual well-being. Although we observed consistent and significant actor effects, with emotional intimacy and frequency of sexual intercourse predicting both male and female partners' sexual well-being across countries, the proposed mediation was observed only in Norwegian and Portuguese men and Norwegian and Belgian women. Partner effects were gender-specific; male partner's emotional intimacy was related to his female partner's reported frequency of sex and sexual well-being but not the other way around. Apart from being one of the few cross-cultural assessments of successful sexual aging, this study's findings support the use of a new sexual well-being measure in research on older adults' sexuality.
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de Castro Coelho F, Barros C. The Potential of Hormonal Contraception to Influence Female Sexuality. Int J Reprod Med 2019; 2019:9701384. [PMID: 30941356 PMCID: PMC6421036 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9701384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The association between female sexual function and hormonal contraception is controversial. Recognition and management of sexual side effects in women using hormonal contraceptives are challenging. An unsatisfactory number of studies report the influence of the available contraceptives on female sexuality. This article provides an updated narrative review regarding the effect and the magnitude of the impact that hormonal contraceptives play in female sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa de Castro Coelho
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, Serviço de Saúde da Região Autónoma da Madeira, E.P.E., Funchal, Portugal
| | - Cremilda Barros
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça, Serviço de Saúde da Região Autónoma da Madeira, E.P.E., Funchal, Portugal
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Dheresa M, Worku A, Oljira L, Mengistie B, Assefa N, Berhane Y. Pelvic floor disorders associated with higher-level sexual dysfunction in the Kersa district, Ethiopia. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 15:210-216. [PMID: 30693135 PMCID: PMC6334248 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.86658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To assess the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction and its association with pelvic floor disorder (PFD) in a large scale, community-based study. Materials and Methods: A total of 2389 women who were married and still in union at the time of the study were drawn from 3432 women who had ever been married who participated in a PFD study. Study participants were selected through a multistage sampling procedure based on Kersa Health and Demographic Surveillance System database. The Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire was employed to collect data. The index score <26.55 was used as a cut-off point for sexual dysfunction. The content of the tool was validated and internal reliability was checked using Cronbach’s alpha. Poisson regression model with robust variance estimation was used to investigate the relationship between PFDs and sexual dysfunction. Results: From the total 2389 participants, 1127 [47.0%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 45.0-49.0] had sexual dysfunction. Sexual desire disorder was the most prevalent disorder (72.0%; 95% CI: 70.0-74.0). After controlling for confounding factors, the prevalence of female sexual dysfunction was found as 56% (adjusted prevalence ratio, 1.56; 95% CI: 1.44-1.69) higher with women with PFD as compared with women without PFD. Conclusion: In the rural community of Kersa, about half of the women have sexual dysfunction and it is significantly associated with PFD. This would call for an urgent intervention against PFD to maximize the women’s sexual and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merga Dheresa
- Haramaya University College of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Alemayehu Worku
- Addis Ababa University College of Health and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Lemessa Oljira
- Haramaya University College of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Public Health, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Bezatu Mengistie
- Haramaya University College of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Science, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Nega Assefa
- Haramaya University College of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yemane Berhane
- Addis Continental Institutes of Public Health, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Yaraghi M, Ghazizadeh S, Mohammadi F, Ashtiani EM, Bakhtiyari M, Mareshi SM, Sarfjoo FS, Eftekhar T. Comparing the effectiveness of functional electrical stimulation via sexual cognitive/behavioral therapy of pelvic floor muscles versus local injection of botulinum toxin on the sexual functioning of patients with primary vaginismus: a randomized clinical trial. Int Urogynecol J 2018; 30:1821-1828. [PMID: 30506183 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-018-3836-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS Most patients suffering from vaginismus feel sinful, anxious, and incompetent, with reduced self-confidence. This study was aimed at comparing the effectiveness of the physiotherapy of pelvic floor muscles as a standard treatment and local injection of botulinum toxin on the sexual functioning of patients with primary vaginismus. METHODS In this randomized clinical trial (RCT), the study population included women with primary vaginismus referred to the Sexual Health and Gynecologic Clinics of Imam Khomeini Hospital during 2013-2014. They were diagnosed according to DSM-5 criteria and underwent treatments with botulinum injection (intervention group) and physiotherapy as the current treatment (control group). The participants' primary and secondary outcomes were measured based on successful intercourse and sexual functioning of each group. RESULTS The results indicated that the overall standard physiotherapy, along with other measurements, such as functional electrical stimulation and desensitization, could effectively improve the patients' Female Sexual Function Index compared with botulinum treatment. At the end of the study, it was found that 20 and 26 patients out of the 30 and 28 patients in the intervention and control groups managed to have successful intercourse respectively (P = 0.014). Also, sexual dysfunction frequencies were seen to be decreased by 26.6% and 50% in the mentioned groups respectively (p = 0.008 and p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Considering the higher efficacy of physiotherapy procedures compared with those of the desensitization and electrical stimulation techniques, this therapeutic method should be considered the first-line treatment of vaginismus (IRCT2016061828486N1).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansooreh Yaraghi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Fellowship in Pelvic Floor Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shirin Ghazizadeh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fariba Mohammadi
- Department of Dermatology, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mahmood Bakhtiyari
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Sadat Sarfjoo
- Department of Infertility, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Eftekhar
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Fellowship in Pelvic Floor Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Koops TU, Briken P. Prevalence of Female Sexual Function Difficulties and Sexual Pain Assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index: A Systematic Review. J Sex Med 2018; 15:1591-1599. [PMID: 30327264 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sexual difficulties, and sexual pain in particular, represent a global health issue for women, and their prevalence has been shown to differ across countries. AIM To review the existing literature on the prevalence of female sexual difficulties and sexual pain worldwide measured by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Included were peer-reviewed publications indicating prevalence rates of female sexual difficulties based on the FSFI and cutoff values. Studies with samples limited to a certain age group or health condition were excluded. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE The outcome measure includes cutoff values and prevalence rates for sexual difficulties and sexual pain, as well as sample characteristics. RESULTS 22 studies conducted in 11 countries were included. These examined samples from the community, patient records, health care staff, or the Internet. Various prevalence cutoff values were applied. Prevalence rates of overall sexual difficulties ranged between 5.5% and 77%. For sexual pain, rates from 3% to 95.5% were found. A comparison between countries was restricted due to differences in sample size, sample type, and applied cutoffs. Representative community samples using comparable cutoffs found that 5.8-63.3% of women experience general sexual difficulty and 6-31.6% experience sexual pain. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Sexual difficulties and sexual pain are prevalent in all examined countries, and despite restrictions to interpretability, the large prevalence rates point to the necessity of further clinical research. STRENGTH & LIMITATIONS Many studies had to be excluded because of missing data. The comparison of studies is descriptive, and not all regions worldwide are represented. Nevertheless, results of the review were useful to derive recommendations for reporting of future studies using the FSFI. CONCLUSION This review is the first comparison of prevalence studies based on the FSFI. It reflects the extent of available research and limitations in comparability. Koops TU, Briken P. Prevalence of Female Sexual Function Difficulties and Sexual Pain Assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index: A Systematic Review. J Sex Med 2018;15:1591-1599.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thula U Koops
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.
| | - Peer Briken
- Institute for Sex Research and Forensic Psychiatry, University Medical Center, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany
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Zarski AC, Berking M, Hannig W, Ebert DD. Wenn Geschlechtsverkehr nicht möglich ist: Vorstellung eines internetbasierten Behandlungsprogramms für Genito-Pelvine Schmerz-Penetrationsstörung mit Falldarstellung. VERHALTENSTHERAPIE 2018. [DOI: 10.1159/000485041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Peixoto MM, Amarelo-Pires I, Pimentel Biscaia MS, Machado PPP. Sexual self-esteem, sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction in Portuguese heterosexual university students. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2018.1491413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuela Peixoto
- CIPSI - Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Inês Amarelo-Pires
- CIPSI - Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | | | - Paulo P. P. Machado
- CIPSI - Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
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McCool-Myers M, Theurich M, Zuelke A, Knuettel H, Apfelbacher C. Predictors of female sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and qualitative analysis through gender inequality paradigms. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2018; 18:108. [PMID: 29929499 PMCID: PMC6013982 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-018-0602-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Background Female sexual dysfunction affects 41% of reproductive-age women worldwide, making it a highly prevalent medical issue. Predictors of female sexual dysfunction are multifaceted and vary from country to country. A synthesis of potential risk factors and protective factors may aid healthcare practitioners in identifying populations at risk, in addition to revealing modifiable factors to prevent sexual dysfunction among reproductive-age women. Methods Observational studies which assessed the prevalence and predictors of female sexual dysfunction in reproductive-age women were systematically sought in relevant databases (2000–2014). Significant predictors were extracted from each included publication. A qualitative analysis of predictors was performed with a focus on types of sexual regimes and level of human development. Results One hundred thirty-five studies from 41 countries were included in the systematic review. The types of predictors varied according to the location of the study, the type of sexual regime and the level of gender inequality in that country/region. Consistently significant risk factors of female sexual dysfunction were: poor physical health, poor mental health, stress, abortion, genitourinary problems, female genital mutilation, relationship dissatisfaction, sexual abuse, and being religious. Consistently significant protective factors included: older age at marriage, exercising, daily affection, intimate communication, having a positive body image, and sex education. Some factors however had an unclear effect: age, education, employment, parity, being in a relationship, frequency of sexual intercourse, race, alcohol consumption, smoking and masturbation. Conclusions The sexual and reproductive lives of women are highly impacted by female sexual dysfunction, and a number of biological, psychological and social factors play a role in the prevalence of sexual dysfunction. Healthcare professionals who work with women should be aware of the many risk factors for reproductive-age women. Future prevention strategies should aim to address modifiable factors, e.g. physical activity and access to sex education; international efforts in empowering women should continue. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12905-018-0602-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan McCool-Myers
- Medical Sociology, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Dr. Gessler Strasse 17, 93051, Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Melissa Theurich
- LMU - Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, Div Metabolic and Nutritional Medicine, Dr von Hauner Children's Hospital, Univ. of Munich Medical Center, Lindwurmstr. 4, 80337, Munich, Germany
| | - Andrea Zuelke
- Institute of Sociology, Friedrich-Schiller-University of Jena, Fürstengraben 1, 07737, Jena, Germany
| | - Helge Knuettel
- University Library of Regensburg, Universitaetsstrasse 3, 93053, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Christian Apfelbacher
- Medical Sociology, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Regensburg, Dr. Gessler Strasse 17, 93051, Regensburg, Germany
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Peixoto MM, Gomes H, Correia A, Pires I, Pereira T, Machado PPP. Translation and validation of the Portuguese version of the Sexual Desire Inventory-2: assessing gender differences. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2018.1472374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuela Peixoto
- Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Hugo Gomes
- Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Adriana Correia
- Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Inês Pires
- Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Tiago Pereira
- Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Paulo P. P. Machado
- Psychology Research Center, School of Psychology, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
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[Systematic review of the subjective experience of orgasm]. Rev Int Androl 2018; 16:75-81. [PMID: 30300128 DOI: 10.1016/j.androl.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Revised: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Orgasm is an essential component of the sexual response. Its study has generated results that point out its importance in human sexuality. The aim of the present study was to review the subjective orgasm experience, its evaluation and its association with personal, interpersonal and psychosocial variables. After conducting a literature search in major databases, we provide a total of 121 scientific articles published between 2000 and 2016, in which the subjective orgasm experience was the main variable. The analysis of the related variables shows that personal variables (for example, health and demographic factors) and interpersonal variables (for example, sexual functioning) are the most considered. To conclude, we observe the need to develop standardized instruments to evaluate specifically the subjective orgasm experience and the need to study jointly the associated variables in order to propose explanatory models of orgasm that are useful for clinical practice.
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Tavares IM, Laan ETM, Nobre PJ. Sexual Inhibition is a Vulnerability Factor for Orgasm Problems in Women. J Sex Med 2018; 15:361-372. [PMID: 29396021 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The differential role of psychological traits in the etiology and maintenance of female orgasm difficulties is yet to be consistently established. AIM To investigate the contribution of different psychological trait features (personality, sexual inhibition and excitation, and sexual beliefs) to predict female orgasm and to assess the degree to which these dispositional factors moderate the association between sexual activity and orgasm occurrence in a large community sample of Portuguese women. METHODS 1,002 women (18-72 years, mean age = 26.27, SD = 8.74) completed questionnaires assessing personality traits (NEO-Five Factor Inventory), sexual inhibition and sexual excitation (Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales-Short Form [SIS/SES]), sexual beliefs (Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs Questionnaire), sexual behavior (frequency of sexual activities and frequency of orgasm occurrence), and social desirability (Socially Desirable Response Set). Hierarchical multiple regression and moderation analyses were conducted while controlling for the effect of covariates such as social desirability, sociodemographic and medical characteristics, and relationship factors. OUTCOMES The main outcome measurement was orgasm frequency as predicted and moderated by personality, SIS/SES dimensions, and sexual beliefs. RESULTS Results of the hierarchical multiple regression analysis indicated a significant predictive role for sexual inhibition (associated with fear of performance failure [SIS1] and related to the threat of performance consequences) and body image beliefs in female orgasm occurrence. The significant predictive effect of extraversion and of sexual excitation on orgasm frequency ceased to be significant with the insertion of all trait predictors in the final model. Furthermore, SIS1 significantly moderated the relation between sexual activity and orgasm occurrence. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Attention should be given to individual factors impairing orgasmic response in women, particularly sexual inhibition processes. The development of clinical strategies to address and regulate them is recommended. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS Although this study investigated a large community sample, this sample was composed of heterosexual, relatively young women and thus generalization of the present results demands some caution. Social desirability was controlled for in the analyses and questionnaires were not collected face to face, which constitutes a strength of this study because social desirability is lower in self-administered online questionnaires compared with paper-and-pencil questionnaires, particularly for more sensitive sexual issues. CONCLUSION SIS1 was found to be a vulnerability factor for female orgasmic difficulties. Future research should test these findings with different samples, particularly clinical samples of women with orgasmic problems, preferably with the use of longitudinal designs. Tavares IM, Laan ETM, Nobre PJ. Sexual Inhibition is a Vulnerability Factor for Orgasm Problems in Women. J Sex Med 2018;15:361-372.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês M Tavares
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Universidade do Porto Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciencias da Educacao, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ellen T M Laan
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Universidade do Porto Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciencias da Educacao, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro J Nobre
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, Universidade do Porto Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciencias da Educacao, Porto, Portugal
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Zarski AC, Berking M, Ebert DD. Efficacy of Internet-Based Guided Treatment for Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder: Rationale, Treatment Protocol, and Design of a Randomized Controlled Trial. Front Psychiatry 2018; 8:260. [PMID: 29403395 PMCID: PMC5786827 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2017.00260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD) not only adversely affects women's sexuality and sexual satisfaction but is also associated with a wide range of psychosocial consequences such as reduced quality of life and well-being, mental health comorbidities, and relationship distress. Evidence for effective treatment options is scarce. AIM This article describes the rationale, treatment protocol, and study design for a randomized controlled trial examining the efficacy of an Internet-based guided intervention for GPPPD. METHOD Two hundred women who meet the criteria for GPPPD and have not been able to experience sexual intercourse for at least the last 6 months will be recruited and randomly assigned either to the intervention group (IG) or a 6-month waitlist control group. Assessments take place at baseline (T1), peritreatment after completion of Session 5 in IG (T2), after completion of Session 8 or 12 weeks after randomization (T3), and after 6 months (T4). Data will be analyzed on an intention-to-treat and a completer basis. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome will be sexual intercourse involving the insertion of the partner's penis at posttreatment. Secondary outcomes include, e.g., improved non-intercourse penetration, sexual functioning, dyadic stress coping, reduced fear of sexuality and negative penetration-related cognitions. Fear of sexuality, penetration-related cognitions, and exercise intensity will be assessed as mediators of intercourse in the IG. Sexual dysfunctions of partners will be measured at baseline (T1) and investigated as a potential moderator of the primary treatment outcome. DISCUSSION Given the burden associated with GPPPD and the need for specialized treatment, there is a surprising lack of evidence-based treatment options. This study aims to assess whether Internet-based interventions could contribute to closing this treatment gap. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION German Register of Clinical Studies (DRKS): DRKS00010228.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Carlotta Zarski
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Institute of Psychology, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Berking
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - David Daniel Ebert
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Graham CA, Mercer CH, Tanton C, Jones KG, Johnson AM, Wellings K, Mitchell KR. What factors are associated with reporting lacking interest in sex and how do these vary by gender? Findings from the third British national survey of sexual attitudes and lifestyles. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e016942. [PMID: 28903968 PMCID: PMC5722087 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-016942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate factors associated with reporting lacking interest in sex and how these vary by gender. SETTING British general population. DESIGN Complex survey analyses of data collected for a cross-sectional probability sample survey, undertaken 2010-2012, specifically logistic regression to calculate age-adjusted OR (AOR) to identify associated factors. PARTICIPANTS 4839 men and 6669 women aged 16-74 years who reported ≥1 sexual partner (opposite-sex or same-sex) in the past year for the third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Lacking interest in sex for ≥3 months in the past year. RESULTS Overall, 15.0% (13.9-16.2) of men and 34.2% (32.8-35.5) of women reported lacking interest in sex. This was associated with age and physical and mental health for both men and women, including self-reported general health and current depression. Lacking interest in sex was more prevalent among men and women reporting sexually transmitted infection diagnoses (ever), non-volitional sex (ever) and holding sexual attitudes related to normative expectations about sex. Some gender similarities in associated relationship and family-related factors were evident, including partner having had sexual difficulties in the last year (men: AOR 1.41 (1.07-1.86); women: AOR 1.60 (1.32-1.94)), not feeling emotionally close to partner during sex (men: 3.74 (1.76-7.93); women: 4.80 (2.99-7.69) and ease of talking about sex (men: 1.53 (1.23-1.90);women: 2.06 (1.77-2.39)). Among women only, lack of interest in sex was higher among those in a relationship of >1 year in duration and those not sharing the same level of interest (4.57 (3.87-5.38)) or preferences (2.91 (2.22-3.83)) with a partner. CONCLUSIONS Both gender similarities and differences were found in factors associated with lacking interest in sex, with the most marked differences in relation to some relationship variables. Findings highlight the need to assess, and if appropriate, treat lacking interest in sex in a holistic and relationship-specific way.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia A Graham
- Department of Psychology, Centre for Sexual Health Research, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Catherine H Mercer
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV Research, Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Clare Tanton
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV Research, Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kyle G Jones
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV Research, Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anne M Johnson
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV Research, Research Department of Infection & Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kaye Wellings
- Centre for Sexual and Reproductive Health Research, Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kirstin R Mitchell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, London, UK
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Évaluation du fonctionnement sexuel de la femme tunisienne dans sa relation avec l’ajustement conjugal. SEXOLOGIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Carvalheira A, Godinho L, Costa P. The Impact of Body Dissatisfaction on Distressing Sexual Difficulties Among Men and Women: the Mediator Role of Cognitive Distraction. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2017; 54:331-340. [PMID: 27119756 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2016.1168771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Research has demonstrated a negative impact of cognitive distraction on sexual activity, and body dissatisfaction has been associated with less satisfying and fewer sexual activities. In the current study we examined the extent to which cognitive distraction, based on body appearance and sexual performance, mediated the impact of body dissatisfaction on sexual difficulties among women and men. A sample of 493 women (Mage = 30.61) and 595 men (Mage = 37.90) completed an online survey. Women reported significantly higher levels of distressing sexual difficulties, significantly more body dissatisfaction, and greater cognitive distraction based on appearance than men. In contrast, men reported higher cognitive distraction based on performance than women. A path analysis model indicated that, for men, only cognitive distraction based on performance mediated the effects of body dissatisfaction on distressing sexual difficulties, and the mediation was only partial as body dissatisfaction had a significant direct effect on distressing sexual difficulties. In contrast, among women, both appearance-based cognitive distraction and performance-based cognitive distraction fully mediated the effects of body dissatisfaction on distressing sexual difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carvalheira
- a William James Center for Research , ISPA-University Institute
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McCool ME, Zuelke A, Theurich MA, Knuettel H, Ricci C, Apfelbacher C. Prevalence of Female Sexual Dysfunction Among Premenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies. Sex Med Rev 2016; 4:197-212. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2016.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2016] [Revised: 03/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Hendrickx L, Gijs L, Enzlin P. Sexual Difficulties and Associated Sexual Distress in Flanders (Belgium): A Representative Population-Based Survey Study. J Sex Med 2016; 13:650-68. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2016.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2015] [Revised: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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Peixoto MM, Nobre P. Prevalence of sexual problems and associated distress among lesbian and heterosexual women. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2014; 41:427-439. [PMID: 24794229 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2014.918066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Prevalence studies on female sexual problems among heterosexual samples have been conducted extensively across different countries. However, relatively little is known regarding prevalence of sexual problems in lesbians. The present study aimed to assess and compare the frequency of self-perceived sexual problems and associated levels of distress in lesbians and heterosexual women. In all, 390 lesbians and 1,009 heterosexual women completed an online survey. The authors assessed the frequency of self-perceived sexual problems in lesbians and heterosexual women, over the past 6 months, as well as the associated levels of distress. Main results suggested that, after controlling for distress levels, sexual pain was the most frequent sexual problem reported by lesbians and heterosexual women. Also, when distress was considered a significant decrease on prevalence rates of sexual problems were found for both lesbians and heterosexual women. Current findings emphasize the role of associated levels of distress to self-perceived sexual problems in women, regardless of sexual orientation. In addition, results suggest that length of relationship play a major role on sexual problems. Overall, data indicated a relatively similar pattern in prevalence of sexual problems in lesbians and heterosexual women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Manuela Peixoto
- a Faculdade de Psicologia e de Ciências da Educação , Universidade do Porto , Porto , Portugal
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