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Bouchard KN, Bergeron S, Rosen NO. Feasibility of a Cognitive-Behavioral Couple Therapy Intervention for Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38593203 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2024.2333477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Female sexual interest/arousal disorder (SIAD) is strongly influenced by interpersonal factors; however, there are no empirically-supported, couple-based sex therapy interventions for this disorder. This pre-registered study tested the feasibility of a cognitive-behavioral couple therapy (CBCT) intervention for SIAD. A sample of 19 couples in which a female partner was diagnosed with SIAD completed a 16-session CBCT intervention delivered online by therapists with PhD-level training in clinical psychology. Women with SIAD (Mage = 43.47, SD = 12.76) and their partners (Mage = 43.74, SD = 11.68) were in long-term relationships (M = 13.86, SD = 9.15). The CBCT sessions were video recorded and independently coded for treatment manual adherence and therapists reported on the completion of in-session and homework exercises. Participants completed measures of treatment satisfaction following the intervention as well as dyadic sexual desire (women with SIAD only) and sexual distress prior to treatment, post-treatment, and at 6 months follow-up. The therapists exhibited a high level of adherence to the treatment manual and couples had high rates of homework completion. Moreover, couples had low dropout rates, high attendance rates, and reported moderately high global treatment satisfaction and high satisfaction with virtual care. Women with SIAD reported large improvements in dyadic sexual desire and sexual distress from pre-treatment to post-treatment and pre-treatment to 6-month follow-up. Partners reported moderate and small improvements in sexual distress for post-treatment and 6-month follow-up, respectively. Results support the feasibility of an evidence-based CBCT intervention for SIAD and the need for a randomized clinical trial of the intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Natalie O Rosen
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Dalhousie University
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dalhousie University
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Mills-Finnerty C, Staggs H, Bittoni C, Wise N. Affective neuroscience: applications for sexual medicine research and clinical practice. Sex Med Rev 2024; 12:127-141. [PMID: 38281754 DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qead048] [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: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Affective neuroscience is the study of the brain substrates of emotional, embodied experiences. Affective neuroscience theory (ANT) is based on experimental evidence that all mammals are hardwired with 7 primary subcortical emotional operating systems, or "core emotions," that have overlapping but distinct circuits buried in the deep, ancient parts of the brain. Imbalances in the 7 core emotions can affect multiple aspects of the individual's psychosocial well-being (eg, depression, anxiety, substance abuse). Here, we propose that core emotions can also influence sexual function and, specifically, that imbalances in core emotions are the bridge connecting psychiatric symptoms (eg, anhedonia) to sexual dysfunction (eg, anorgasmia). OBJECTIVES In this targeted review and commentary, we outline potential connections between ANT and sexual medicine research and clinical practice. We summarize ANT by defining the 3-level BrainMind and core emotions; examining how they relate to personality, behavior, and mental health; and determining the implications for sexual health research and clinical practice. METHODS A targeted literature review was conducted. Case studies were adapted from client files and clinician interviews and then anonymized. RESULTS We propose a novel organizational schema for implementing affective balance therapies for sexual dysfunction, which integrate psychoeducational, somatic, and cognitive therapeutic approaches under the ANT framework. We provide 3 patient case studies (anorgasmia, hypersexuality, spinal cord injury) outlining the implementation of this approach and patient outcomes. CONCLUSION ANT has practical translational applications in sexual health research and clinical practice. By integrating our understanding of the role of core emotions in human sexuality, clinicians can better tailor treatments to address sexual dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colleen Mills-Finnerty
- Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Care, Palo Alto Veterans Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA 94304, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94304, United States
| | - Halee Staggs
- Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Care, Palo Alto Veterans Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA 94304, United States
| | - Celeste Bittoni
- Department of Psychology, University of Padova, Padova 2 35122, Italy
| | - Nan Wise
- Department of Psychology, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ 07102, United States
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3
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The Study of Sexual Fantasy in Women: a Review of the Findings and Methodological Challenges. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-022-00334-x] [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]
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4
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Simon JA, Athavale A, Ravindranath R, Hadker N, Sadiq A, Lim-Watson M, Williams L, Krop J. Assessing the Burden of Illness Associated with Acquired Generalized Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2022; 31:715-725. [PMID: 35475708 PMCID: PMC9133974 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.0255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), which affects ∼10% of women in the United States, is defined as the persistent or recurrent deficiency/absence of sexual desire accompanied by personal distress. Although HSDD impacts patient quality of life and interpersonal relationships, the disorder often goes unaddressed or untreated. Recent studies of the burden of illness in women with HSDD, especially premenopausal women, are limited. Materials and Methods: A 45-minute web-based survey was designed to investigate the experience of women seeking treatment for HSDD and the impact of this disorder on several psychosocial aspects of women's lives. Women were recruited from an online panel of patients who participated in research studies for compensation. Validated questionnaires assessed sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index) and health-related quality of life (12-Item Short Form Survey [SF-12]), including mental and physical component scores. Results: A total of 530 women, aged ≥18 years, diagnosed with acquired generalized HSDD were included in the study. Premenopausal women indicated greater overall HSDD symptom burden compared with postmenopausal women. Patients with HSDD reported lower SF-12 scores compared with the general population. A multivariable regression analysis demonstrated that psychosocial factors influencing the burden of HSDD, including interference with their relationship with their partner (β = −0.18; p < 0.005), mental and emotional well-being (β = −0.23; p < 0.005), and household and personal activities (β = −0.23; p = 0.02), negatively affected SF-12 mental component scores. Conclusions: HSDD symptom burden was found to be negatively and statistically significantly associated with patients' mental health; the impact was greater among premenopausal women compared with postmenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- James A Simon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, George Washington University and IntimMedicine™ Specialists, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | | | | | | | - Amama Sadiq
- AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Julie Krop
- AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
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Mechanisms of the association between PTSD and sexual arousal and lubrication functioning among trauma-exposed female service members/veterans. J Affect Disord 2022; 301:352-359. [PMID: 34965403 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.12.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The presence of a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnosis or higher PTSD severity is associated with higher overall sexual dysfunction in female service members/veterans. However, the mechanisms linking PTSD to specific components of women's sexual arousal function, like lubrication and mental arousal, are unknown. METHODS We conducted a survey among 464 women who reported probable Criterion A exposure for PTSD. Path analysis examined (1) the association of PTSD with sexual arousal, (2) whether specific PTSD symptom clusters were uniquely associated with sexual arousal, and (3) whether this association is indirect, through the effects of higher depression severity and lower romantic relationship satisfaction. Arousal was operationalized to measure both mental (subjective arousal) and physical (lubrication) experiences. RESULTS Higher PTSD severity was associated with lower lubrication and arousal function. The association of PTSD severity with arousal was indirect, through lower romantic relationship satisfaction (estimate: -0.12; 95% CI: [-0.014, -0.007]) and higher depression (estimate: -0.08, 95% CI: [-0.012, -0.002]). The association of PTSD severity with lubrication was also indirect, but only through lower relationship satisfaction (estimate: -0.10, 95% CI: [-0.013, -0.006]). PTSD symptom clusters were not uniquely associated with arousal and lubrication through mediated pathways. LIMITATIONS Data were from a cross-sectional study using a convenience sample. Criterion A exposure could not be confirmed. CONCLUSIONS PTSD may lead to arousal and lubrication dysfunction by contributing to higher depression severity and strained romantic relationships. Interventions targeting reductions in depressive symptoms and bolstering relationship satisfaction may minimize the burden of PTSD on sexual arousal concerns.
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Clayton AH, Kingsberg SA, Portman D, Sadiq A, Krop J, Jordan R, Lucas J, Simon JA. Safety Profile of Bremelanotide Across the Clinical Development Program. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2022; 31:171-182. [PMID: 35147466 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.0191] [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: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Bremelanotide, a melanocortin receptor agonist, is Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved for the treatment of premenopausal women with acquired, generalized hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Methods: Review of bremelanotide's safety profile from the clinical development program (phases 1 through 3). Results: The clinical development program comprised 3500 subjects in 43 completed studies. In the phase 3 studies, subjects took bremelanotide for up to 18 months. The most common adverse events (AEs) were nausea (40.0% vs. 1.3%), flushing (20.3% vs. 1.3%), headache (11.3% vs. 1.9%), and injection site reactions (5.4 vs. 0.5), bremelanotide versus placebo groups, respectively, in the integrated double-blind portion of the phase 3 studies (N = 1247). Nausea was the most common reason for bremelanotide discontinuation. There were no deaths; a few subjects experienced serious AEs. Focal hyperpigmentation was rare when bremelanotide was dosed in accordance with label recommendations, but it occurred in more than one-third of subjects following up to 16 consecutive daily dosings. Small and transient but statistically significant blood pressure increases were observed during ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. Most drug-drug interactions were not clinically significant, except for interactions that lowered plasma concentrations of indomethacin and naltrexone. In the double-blind portion of the integrated phase 3 studies, 70% of the bremelanotide group proceeded to the open-label phase of the studies versus 87% of those on placebo. Conclusions: The AEs associated with bremelanotide are mostly mild to moderate. Although not deemed clinically important, bremelanotide should be used with caution in patients at risk of cardiovascular disease, and blood pressure should be well controlled during treatment. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT02333071 [Study 301] and NCT02338960 [Study 302].
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita H Clayton
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Sheryl A Kingsberg
- Department of Reproductive Biology and Department of Psychiatry, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Amama Sadiq
- AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Julie Krop
- AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert Jordan
- Palatin Technologies, Inc., Cranbury, New Jersey, USA
| | - Johna Lucas
- Palatin Technologies, Inc., Cranbury, New Jersey, USA
| | - James A Simon
- George Washington University and IntimMedicine™ Specialists, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Lerner T, Bagnoli VR, de Pereyra EAG, Fonteles LP, Sorpreso ICE, Júnior JMS, Baracat EC. Cognitive-behavioral group therapy for women with hypoactive sexual desire: A pilot randomized study. Clinics (Sao Paulo) 2022; 77:100054. [PMID: 35905577 PMCID: PMC9334335 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinsp.2022.100054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) is a very prevalent sexual problem, with limited options for treatment. Given that psychological factors are major contributors to the disorder, a therapy such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) may be useful to treat HSDD. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of group CBT on women with HSDD. METHOD Clinical trial randomized study with 106 women diagnosed with HSDD, who were divided as follows: Group 1 (n = 53) underwent group CBT for 8-weeks, and Group 2 (n = 53), were put on a waiting list and used as a control group. Sexual function was assessed by the Female Sexual Quotient (FSQQ) at the initial interview and after 6-months. Mann Whitney test was used for group comparison. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES demographics, education, sexual history, FSQQ and its domains for sexual function assessment. RESULTS Both groups had similar characteristics regarding sexual response, self-image, and relationship with a partner at the initial interview. Women undergoing therapy showed significant improvement in sexual function when compared with the control group. The overall FSQQ result showed an average growth of 18.08 points (95% CI 12.87‒23.28) for the therapy group against a decrease of 0.83 points (95% CI 3.43‒1.77) for controls (p < 0.001). The five domains of the questionnaire also exhibited significant improvement in the therapy group: desire and interest (p = 0.003), foreplay (p = 0.003), excitation and tuning (p < 0.001), comfort (p < 0.001), and orgasm and satisfaction (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Group CBT was shown to be an effective tool for treating HSDD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Théo Lerner
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Vicente Renato Bagnoli
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Elsa Aida Gay de Pereyra
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucivanda Pontes Fonteles
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Isabel Cristina Esposito Sorpreso
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - José Maria Soares Júnior
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Edmund Chada Baracat
- Disciplina de Ginecologia, Departamento de Obstetrícia e Ginecologia, Hospital das Clínicas, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Sexual rehabilitation recommendations for prostate cancer survivors and their partners from a biopsychosocial Prostate Cancer Supportive Care Program. Support Care Cancer 2021; 30:1853-1861. [PMID: 34613474 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06335-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to highlight the biopsychosocial recommendations provided to prostate cancer survivors and their partners during sexual rehabilitation. METHODS Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained patient database was conducted for visits between 2013 and 2019. The sexual health rehabilitation action plan (SHRAP) is a standardized 29-item list of biopsychosocial recommendations. The frequency of biopsychosocial recommendations provided to patients via their SHRAPs was assessed. RESULTS Among 913 patients, across 2671 appointments, nearly 74% of patients underwent radical prostatectomy. Other treatments included combination therapy (surgery, radiation, and/or androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)) (13%), radiation (external beam radiation or brachytherapy) (5%), and active surveillance (2%). Each patient had a median of 2 (SD 2.06) appointments and received a mean of 10.0 (SD 3.9) recommendations at each visit. Educational recommendations (penile rehabilitation, orgasmic guidelines, and climacturia management) were provided in 84% of visits followed by psychosexual recommendations (pleasure-focused, dedicated time, simmering, sexual aids, and sensate focus) in 71% of all appointments. The top recommendations (total n, frequency of recommendation) were penile rehabilitation (2253, 84%), pleasure-focus (1887, 71%), phosphodiesterase inhibitors (1655, 62%), clinical counselor (1603, 60%), vacuum erectile device (1418, 53%) and intracavernosal injections (1383, 52%). CONCLUSIONS Biopsychosocial programs are evolving to be a key part of prostate cancer survivorship. This study's insight suggests that prostate cancer survivors require education around their sexual consequences and psychosexual counseling alongside proven biomedical strategies for erectile dysfunction. IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS Cancer survivorship programs should integrate educational and psychosocial strategies alongside biological strategies for prostate cancer survivors and their partners.
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Bowsfield ML, Cobb RJ. Sexual Anxiety Mediates Dyadic Associations Between Body Satisfaction and Sexual Quality in Mixed-Sex Couples. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:2603-2619. [PMID: 34401993 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-01999-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Body satisfaction predicts sexual quality among women and men; however, mechanisms of the association are largely unknown. We hypothesized that sexual anxiety would mediate average associations over 1 year between individuals' body satisfaction and their own and their partner's sexual quality, which is comprised of their sexual satisfaction and dissatisfaction, in 123 mixed-sex cohabiting couples. Results of Actor-Partner Interdependence Models extended to Mediation (APIMeM) and tested via multilevel modelling partially supported the hypotheses. Specifically, individuals' body satisfaction indirectly predicted their own and their partner's sexual satisfaction through individuals' sexual anxiety, and indirectly predicted their own, but not their partner's sexual dissatisfaction through individuals' sexual anxiety. Thus, when individuals are relatively less satisfied with their bodies, they may experience anxiety during sexual encounters, which then interferes with their own and their partner's sexual quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marissa L Bowsfield
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Rebecca J Cobb
- Department of Psychology, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada
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Rullo JE, Sood R, Fokken SC, Sood A, Frohmader KS, Croghan IT, Schroeder DR, Faubion SS. Couples' Use of Online Stress Management and Resiliency Training for Sexual Health Concerns: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Sex Med 2021; 9:100404. [PMID: 34280591 PMCID: PMC8360907 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2021.100404] [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: 01/22/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mindfulness is a promising intervention for female sexual dysfunction (FSD); however, of the mindfulness interventions studied, few treat the woman and her partner. Aim We developed a brief online mindfulness, resilience, and psychoeducation intervention, Stress Management and Resiliency Training for Sexuality (Sex SMART), for women with sexual health concerns and their partners. Methods Women with female sexual interest/arousal disorder and their partners were recruited between February 24, 2015, and October 6, 2016, and randomized to treatment or control groups (received educational pamphlets). The treatment intervention comprised of an online SMART and sexual health psychoeducation module. Main Outcome Measures The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised (FSDS-R), Sexual Desire Inventory-2 (SDI-2), Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale (RDAS), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and other subjective measures were used to assess sexual function and sexual distress at baseline and 12 weeks. Results The study included 60 women and their partners (30 couples in each group). In both groups, sexual function by total FSFI scores and sexual distress scores significantly improved at 12 weeks compared with baseline, with no significant between-group differences (FSFI effect estimate for Sex SMART vs control = +1.4 (90% CI [–0.6 to +3.4]; P=.13). Both participants and partners randomized to the intervention reported significantly improved attitude and feelings, comfort as a sexual person, and subjective sexual functioning at 12 weeks. The findings provide preliminary evidence for efficacy of an online intervention for couples with sexual health problems. Conclusions A brief online mindfulness, resilience, and psychoeducation–based intervention showed no significant improvement in many outcomes (FSFI, FSDS-R, SDI-2, RDAS) of sexual health versus controls. Although this is the first online randomized controlled trial to evaluate a mindfulness-based therapy intervention, it was limited by its lack of population diversity and high attrition rate. Significant improvements in subjective sexual health and partner sexual function by the International Index of Erectile Function were reported only in the intervention group. Rullo JE, Sood R, Fokken SC, et al. Couples’ Use of Online Stress Management and Resiliency Training for Sexual Health Concerns: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Sex Med 2021;9:100404.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan E Rullo
- Menopause and Women's Sexual Health Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; Department of Clinical Psychology, The University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
| | - Richa Sood
- Menopause and Women's Sexual Health Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota; Center for Women's Health, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Shawn C Fokken
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Amit Sood
- Viterbo University, La Crosse, Wisconsin
| | | | - Ivana T Croghan
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota; Division of Epidemiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Stephanie S Faubion
- Center for Women's Health, Rochester, Minnesota; Division of General Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
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Vosper J, Irons C, Mackenzie-White K, Saunders F, Lewis R, Gibson S. Introducing compassion focused psychosexual therapy. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2021.1902495] [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: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jane Vosper
- Clinical Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, UK
- Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Chris Irons
- Balanced Minds, London, UK
- Department of Psychology, University College London, London, UK
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Walker LM. Psychosocial contributors to patients' and partners' postprostate cancer sexual recovery: 10 evidence-based and practical considerations. Int J Impot Res 2020; 33:464-472. [PMID: 33204005 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-020-00369-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Sexual recovery after prostate cancer (PCa) treatment is challenging. When expectations are that erectile response will quickly return to baseline, patients can often struggle when this does not happen. Further difficulty is experienced when patients encounter physical, psychological, and relational barriers to sexual adjustment. Drawing on the psychosocial research literature and on 15 years of clinical experience counseling PCa patients about sexual recovery, this paper outlines considerations for clinical practice. Suggestions include broadening the target for successful outcomes after Pca treatment beyond erectile function to include sexual distress and other sources of sexual concern. Clinicians are urged to consider individual differences such as the larger context of the patient, including their values and preferences, their treatment goals, and their relationship situation and status, in order to promote successful sexual adaptation. When introducing treatment approaches, the role of grief and loss should be assessed, and patients should be supported to foster realistic expectations about the recovery process. Suggestions for how to introduce various sexual strategies to patients are also offered, including ways to support patients in making and sustaining behavioral changes associated with sexual intervention. Clinicians are offered suggestions to promote patients' sexual flexibility, prevent long periods of sexual inactivity, and help patients to identify various sexual motivators. Consideration of these psychological, relational, and social factors are all likely to help facilitate better sexual outcomes for PCa patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Walker
- Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. .,Division of PsychoOncology, Department of Oncology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. .,Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Zippan N, Stephenson KR, Brotto LA. Feasibility of a Brief Online Psychoeducational Intervention for Women With Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder. J Sex Med 2020; 17:2208-2219. [PMID: 32919927 PMCID: PMC7480645 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.07.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low sexual desire and arousal are the most common sexual concerns in women, but most women lack access to effective treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Web-based psychological interventions, which are economical, private, easily accessible, and potentially effective, may increase the reach of evidence-based treatment. AIM To determine the feasibility of translating cognitive behavioral therapy for the most common female sexual dysfunction, Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder, into an online format. The present study examined the feasibility of an introductory psychoeducational module of eSense, an online program currently being developed that is based on existing empirically supported in-person treatments, which delivers content to the user in a visually appealing and interactive manner. METHODS Sixteen cisgender women (M age = 31.9) with female sexual arousal/interest disorder worked through a pilot module of eSense inperson at a sexual health laboratory. OUTCOMES Qualitative semistructured interviews and online questionnaires were used to assess participants' experiences of usability of the platform, clarity/relevance of the content, satisfaction with the experience, and any changes in clinical outcomes of sexual function and distress. RESULTS Participants reported a high level of satisfaction with the website's functionality and presentation. They reported greater knowledge, felt validated and more hopeful, and were eager to continue the remaining modules. Participants also reported notable prepost improvements in sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Initial user-experience assessment may represent a method of simultaneously improving online interventions and providing therapeutic education to participants. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This is one of the first studies, to our knowledge, to test a graphics-rich, interactive online intervention for sexual difficulties that does not require direct contact with expert providers or support groups. Limitations include the high level of education, motivation, and technical fluency of the sample and the potentially confounding effect of the researcher's presence during interviews. Because this was a feasibility study, the sample size was small, and no control group was included, limiting conclusions about efficacy and generalizability. CONCLUSION The format of eSense appears to be feasible and usable, lending support to the growing evidence that it is possible to take in-person therapeutic interventions online. Zippan N, Stephenson KR, Brotto LA, Feasibility of a Brief Online Psychoeducational Intervention for Women With Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder. J Sex Med 2020;17:2208-2219.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Zippan
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Lori A Brotto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Adam F, Day J, De Sutter P, Brasseur C. L’utilisation de la pleine conscience dans le traitement du trouble de l’orgasme féminin. SEXOLOGIES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2019.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Werner M, Štulhofer A, Waldorp L, Jurin T. A Network Approach to Hypersexuality: Insights and Clinical Implications. J Sex Med 2019; 15:373-386. [PMID: 29502983 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2018.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In spite of a growing interest in research on hypersexuality, consensus about its etiology and best treatment strategy has not been achieved. AIM To further the empirical and clinical understanding of hypersexuality by exploring the structure of its symptoms using a network analytic approach. METHODS In 2014, an online survey advertised as focusing on Internet pornography, sexual health, and relationships was carried out among Croatian men and women aged 18-60 years (Mage = 31.1 years, SD = 9.67). In a sample of 3,028 participants, we applied a network analytic approach to explore the structure of hypersexuality symptoms. In the network, nodes represented hypersexuality symptoms and associated sexual behaviors, while their connections were operationalized as partial correlations. 4 Research questions were addressed: (1) does the hypersexuality network differ between genders; (2) which symptoms are centrally positioned; (3) what is the topological location of pornography use; and (4) are there distinct clusters ("communities") of symptoms in the network? OUTCOMES We estimated and plotted hypersexuality networks by gender using items from the Hypersexual Disorder Screening Inventory and the Hypersexual Behavioral Consequences Scale, as well as indicators of sexual desire, pornography use, sexual intercourse, and masturbation frequency. RESULTS The structure of the hypersexuality network was surprisingly similar in women and men, both in terms of symptom centrality and the clustering of symptoms. Psychological distress and negative emotions triggered by sexual fantasies and/or behaviors, together with a loss of control over sexual feelings, occupied central positions in the networks. Pornography use was located peripherally in both the men's and women's hypersexuality networks. CLINICAL TRANSLATION Psychological distress and negative emotions triggered by sexual fantasies and/or behaviors constituted the core of the hypersexuality network, which makes them potential prime targets for clinical intervention and calls for normalization of (presumably self-stigmatized) sexual expression through affirmative therapy and interventions that enhance self-care, self-compassion, and adaptive coping mechanisms. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This is the first network analytic approach to hypersexuality. Apart from its novel insights about the structure of hypersexuality, the study employed several methods to assure reliability and robustness of findings. Considering that networks were estimated in a convenience-based community sample, the findings might not generalize to clinically distressed individuals. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate the usefulness of network analytics to hypersexuality in a non-clinical sample and we encourage future clinical and longitudinal explorations of hypersexuality using this novel approach. Werner M, Štulhofer A, Waldorp L, et al. A Network Approach to Hypersexuality: Insights and Clinical Implications. J Sex Med 2018;15:373-386.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlene Werner
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Aleksandar Štulhofer
- Department of Sociology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lourens Waldorp
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Program Group: Psychological Methods, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Tanja Jurin
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Croatia
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Shuper Engelhard E. Dance movement psychotherapy for couples (DMP-C): systematic treatment guidelines based on a wide-ranging study. BODY MOVEMENT AND DANCE IN PSYCHOTHERAPY 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/17432979.2019.1653373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Einat Shuper Engelhard
- Head Dance Movement Therapy programme, Graduate School of Creative Art Therapies. Faculty of social Welfare & health sciences, emili sagol creative arts therapies research center, University of Haifa, Haifa, Israel
- Graduate School of Creative Art Therapies. Faculty of humanities & social sciences, Kibbutzim college of education, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Irwin
- Department of Science, Bath Spa University, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline Pullen
- Unity Sexual Health, Bristol Sexual Health Centre, Central Health Clinic, Bristol, United Kingdom
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Rancourt KM, MacKinnon S, Snowball N, Rosen NO. Beyond the Bedroom: Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral Responses to Partner Touch in Women With and Without Sexual Problems. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2017; 54:862-876. [PMID: 27548777 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2016.1217297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Women with female sexual problems (FSP) are more likely than unaffected women to demonstrate negative appraisals, negative affect, and avoidance of sexual activity. Research suggests affected women also experience negative affect and avoidance in response to intimate partner contact for fear it will lead to sex. This online study examined whether women with FSP (N = 157) and without FSP (N = 129) exhibited different perceptions, affective reactions, and behavioral responses to hypothetical touch occurring outside sexual activity. Women (Mage = 30.70; SD = 6.66) were randomly assigned to one of three conditions representing hypothetical interactions with their partner (affectionate, sexual, or no touch), and answered questions about their perceptions of their partner's sexual intentions and their own anticipated negative affect and behavioral avoidance. Women with FSP reported higher perceptions of sexual intent, negative affect, and avoidance in the sexual touch condition, and higher negative affect in the affectionate touch condition, than women without FSP. Results highlight that women with FSP have more negative reactions to partners' hypothetical affectionate and sexual touch than women without FSP. Interventions for FSP may benefit from targeting women's perceptions, affective reactions, and behavioral reactions to partner touch when it occurs outside of explicitly sexual contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate M Rancourt
- a Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
| | - Sean MacKinnon
- a Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
| | - Nicole Snowball
- a Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
| | - Natalie O Rosen
- a Department of Psychology and Neuroscience , Dalhousie University
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , IWK Health Centre
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