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Chen J, Zhai H, Jin H, Li X, Zhang P, Chen R. Sexual experiences of postmenopausal women in China: a qualitative study. Sex Med 2023; 11:qfad062. [PMID: 38058407 PMCID: PMC10696166 DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfad062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Sexual dysfunction is common among postmenopausal women and can have a significant negative impact on quality of life. Aim This study aimed to explore perceptions, experiences, and coping strategies related to sex among postmenopausal women in China. Methods We used phenomenologic qualitative methods in this study. On the basis of purposive sampling and the data saturation principle, 21 volunteers from a community cohort study were selected for semistructured interviews. The data were analyzed and themes were extracted. Outcomes Thematic codes pertaining to sexual experiences and coping strategies were defined and assessed in this study. Results Four themes and 12 subthemes were extracted from the interview data. The sexual concepts were relatively conservative for most of the Chinese women; the majority experienced physical and psychological distress with respect to sex, although negative and positive psychological experiences were described. The women often passively accepted and adapted to negative changes to their sex lives during the postmenopause period. Clinical Implications This study highlights the importance of and need for effective dissemination of sexual health-related knowledge and the opening of appropriate communication channels. Strengths and Limitations By using a qualitative approach, this study provides individuals with the opportunity to describe their cognition and attitudes toward sexuality. Limitations include limited generalizability, as is true for most qualitative research. Additionally, the study is based solely on the female perspective and cannot fully reflect the sex life of couples. Conclusion The sexual experiences of our respondents exhibited distinct Chinese cultural characteristics. The interviews show the importance of paying attention to postmenopausal women's sexual health and providing relevant professional support and guidance to improve women's overall health-related quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric and Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing,100730, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Haina Zhai
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric and Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing,100730, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Hongyun Jin
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric and Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing,100730, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiang Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric and Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing,100730, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Pan Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric and Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing,100730, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Rong Chen
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric and Gynecologic Diseases, Beijing,100730, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
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Azab M, Abdellatif MA, Abdelnaby MM. Evaluation of sexual dysfunction and its predictive factors in female and male patients with rheumatoid arthritis. EGYPTIAN RHEUMATOLOGY AND REHABILITATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43166-021-00089-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common disabling joint disease affecting both males and females. Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common association with RA. The aim of this work was to study the prevalence and predictors of sexual dysfunction in male and female patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Results
The mean age of female patients was 32.1 years and 39.7 years for males. The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was higher in RA female patients than controls, 62.1% versus 41.2% respectively (P ≤ 0.05). The prevalence of global sexual dysfunction was higher in RA male patients than controls, 63.8% versus 47.5% respectively (P ≤ 0.05). Predictors of sexual dysfunction in female RA patients were the number of children, BMI, disease duration, DAS score, HADs-D score, HAQ score, VAS score, joint deformity, and the number of drugs. Predictors of sexual dysfunction in male RA patients were age, disease duration, DAS score, HAQ score, VAS score, and the number of drugs.
Conclusion
SD is prevalent in RA patients. Disease activity, pain, depression, and disturbed quality of life affect nearly all domains of sexual functions in female and male patients.
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Bay LT, Graugaard C, Nielsen DS, Möller S, Ellingsen T, Giraldi A. Sexual Health and Dysfunction in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-sectional Single-Center Study. Sex Med 2020; 8:615-630. [PMID: 32912833 PMCID: PMC7691882 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction An increased risk of sexual health problems is seen among patients with chronic illnesses. The background is likely to be multifactorial, but it remains poorly understood. Aim To investigate the sexual health and functioning of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to examine gender differences, general population comparisons, and possible somatic, psychological, and disease-specific determinants. Methods A cross-sectional study using a digital questionnaire distributed among 380 patients diagnosed with RA in a Danish university hospital outpatient setting. Main Outcome Measure A range of patient-reported outcomes were obtained, including scores from the validated rating scale Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire. Furthermore, individual medical record information was collected. Results A total of 329 patients (250 women and 79 men) were included (age range: 25–73 years; mean age: 57.2 years). The Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire scoring indicated an overall sexual dysfunction in 33.8% of men and 58.1% of women.More than one-third (37.6%) of patients felt that RA had made their sex life more complicated, and 32.4% feared that this might someday be the case. In total, 29.2% patients had experienced sexual problems due to their RA treatment. Of the respondents who experienced RA-related fatigue, 46.5% reported that this impacted negatively on their sexual activity. The risk of one or more sexual health adversities was significantly correlated with female gender, older age, moderate or severe depression, moderate to moderately high loneliness, more than 2 comorbidities, and a fatigue score above 75 out of 100 on a visual analogue scale. Compared to the general population, significantly fewer patients with RA considered their sex life important, and significantly fewer patients appraised their current sex life as good or very good. Moreover, significantly more women with RA (32.1%) than women from the general population (15.7%) had not had any sex life during the past year. A vast majority of patients with RA (93.5% of women and 85.5% of men) had not discussed sexual issues with a health-care professional during the last 5 years. Of all, 32.5% would like health-care professionals to address sexual topics in the consultation occasionally. Conclusion Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent in patients with RA, but the problems are not regularly addressed in consultations provided by the rheumatology department. Bay LT, Graugaard C, Nielsen DS, et al. Sexual Health and Dysfunction in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Cross-sectional Single-Center Study. Sex Med 2020;8:615–630.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila Twisttmann Bay
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital & University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Christian Graugaard
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Dorthe S Nielsen
- Department of Health Research, University College Lillebaelt, Odense, Denmark; Migrant Health Clinic, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Center for Global Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Sören Möller
- OPEN, Odense University Hospital & University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Torkell Ellingsen
- Rheumatology Research Unit, Department of Rheumatology, Odense University Hospital & University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Annamaria Giraldi
- Sexological Clinic, Psychiatric Centre Copenhagen, Denmark & Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Gherbon A, Frandes M, Roman D, Anastasiu-Popov D, Timar R. Risk factors for sexual dysfunction in Romanian women with type 1 diabetes mellitus and chronic autoimmune thyroiditis: a comparative cross-sectional study. Diabetol Metab Syndr 2020; 12:94. [PMID: 33117456 PMCID: PMC7590467 DOI: 10.1186/s13098-020-00602-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is one of the chronic complications of diabetes as is male sexual dysfunction, but the former is less studied. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess of the prevalence and risk factors associated with FSD in Romanian women with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (CAT). METHODS The study sample included 104 Romanian women with both T1DM and CAT, and 101 Romanian matched controls with only T1DM. The presence of FSD was established using two validated tests: The Female Sexual Function Index and the Female Sexual Distress Scale-revised. The presence of depression was assessed using Beck's Depression Inventory-II. RESULTS We found that almost half of the women in the group with T1DM and CAT presented with sexual dysfunction (49 vs. 33.7% in the control group; p = 0.025): 27.9 vs. 8.9 (p < 0.001)-desire, 23.1 vs. 7.9% (p = 0.003)-orgasm, 21.2 vs. 5.9% (p = 0.002)-lubrication, 17.3 vs. 6.9% (p = 0.023)-arousal, 9.6 vs. 1% (p = 0.006)-pain, and 20.2 vs. 9.9% (p = 0.040)-satisfaction problems. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that age was a significant risk factor for FSD, along with DM and body mass index. Coexisting CAT, polyneuropathy, depression, and the use of insulin pumps were significant risk factors for FSD. CONCLUSIONS Women with T1DM and CAT are more likely to present with FSD than those without. It is important for patients to address depression, if present, and exercise caution while using insulin pumps. Moreover, DM complications such as polyneuropathy are significant risk factors for FSD; thus, it is crucial to ensure satisfactory glycemic control and optimal DM management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Gherbon
- Second Department of Internal Medicine - Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Clinic of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Mirela Frandes
- Department of Functional Sciences - Medical Informatics and Biostatistics, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2 Eftimie Murgu, 300041 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Deiana Roman
- Second Department of Internal Medicine - Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Clinic of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Diana Anastasiu-Popov
- Department of Obstetrics-Gynecology, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Romulus Timar
- Second Department of Internal Medicine - Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
- Clinic of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, “Pius Brinzeu” Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania
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Kars Fertelli T. Effects of Education About Rheumatoid Arthritis and Sexuality on the Sexual Problems of Women With Rheumatoid Arthritis. Clin Nurs Res 2019; 29:189-199. [DOI: 10.1177/1054773819858493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The present quasi-experimental study was conducted to determine the effects of education about rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and sexuality on the sexual problems of women with RA. The study included 103 women with RA (51 in the experimental group, 52 in the control group). The study data were collected using the Personal Information Form and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The women in the experimental group were provided education on sexuality, while those in the control group received no intervention. The aforementioned scales were administered twice: during the recruitment visit and then 1 month after the intervention. In the second measurement, the mean FSFI score increased in the experimental group, but was low in the control group, with the differences between the two groups being significant. Thus, providing sexual education to women with RA was effective in reducing sexual problems in women.
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Holmes LJ, Yorke JA, Dutton C, Fowler SJ, Ryan D. Sex and intimacy in people with severe asthma: a qualitative study. BMJ Open Respir Res 2019; 6:e000382. [PMID: 30956803 PMCID: PMC6424302 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2018-000382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction People with severe asthma experience unpredictable daily symptoms requiring an intense treatment regimen impacting on health-related quality of life (QoL). Sexuality contributes to this, yet there is a dearth of research exploring intimacy in people with severe asthma. We aimed to explore the patient's perception of the impact of severe asthma on intimacy, establish their information needs and their perceived role of the healthcare practitioner. Methods We have performed a qualitative study guided by Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. We interviewed patients diagnosed with severe asthma recruited from a dedicated clinic using purposive sampling. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Using thematic analysis, the data were analysed for emergent themes. Results The nine interviews provided unique and detailed insights into their perspectives on how living with severe asthma impinges on sexual intimacy. Four superordinate themes emerged: (1) 'Physical intimacy': including disclosure of physical limitations of severe asthma on intimacy; (2) 'Emotional intimacy': the cyclical impact of the often-negative emotional struggle of living with severe asthma on relationships; (3) 'The role of the healthcare professional': a perceived failure of healthcare professionals (HCPs) to tackle sexual intimacy in consultations and (4) 'Image of self': the reported struggle to deal with negative body image and confusion regarding changing relationship roles. Discussion This study is the first to explore the impact of severe asthma on intimacy. We suggest an emphasis on education to raise awareness and help HCPs to address this sensitive topic in this cohort and adopt positive strategies to help improve QoL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leanne Jo Holmes
- Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Janelle A Yorke
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Caroline Dutton
- Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Stephen J Fowler
- Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Manchester and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Dorothy Ryan
- Respiratory Medicine, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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Bahri N, Latifnejad Roudsari R, Azimi Hashemi M. "Adopting self-sacrifice": how Iranian women cope with the sexual problems during the menopausal transition? An exploratory qualitative study. J Psychosom Obstet Gynaecol 2017; 38:180-188. [PMID: 27626135 DOI: 10.1080/0167482x.2016.1216962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the menopausal transition sexual problems are an important issue and one of the most frequently presented health concerns of women attending menopause clinics. This study aimed to explore the ways of managing sexual dysfunctions during the menopausal transition among Iranian women. METHODS This exploratory qualitative study was conducted in Iran, from May 2013 to April 2015. Twenty-one women in three stages of menopausal transition, aged 42-55 years old, were purposively selected from urban health centers in Mashhad and Gonabad, Iran. Semi-structured in depth interviews were conducted for data collection until data saturation was achieved. All interviews were recorded electronically and transcribed verbatim. Conventional content analysis was used for data analysis using Granehiem and Lundman (2004) recommended method. MAXQDA 2007 software was used for organizing data and managing the process of analysis. RESULTS Data analysis demonstrated one overarching theme entitled "Adopting self-sacrifice" consisting of three categories and seven sub-categories. Major categories included: (1) Confronting decline of libido with two subcategories of women's libido decline and inability to fulfill husbands' sexual needs, (2) Seeking strategies for coping with two subcategories of looking for experiences of peer menopausal women and choosing how to interact with the husband and (3) Achieving problem solving strategies with three sub-categories of obedience in sexual relationships (Tamkin), employing affection based on religious advice, and giving up own right to reach mutual understanding. CONCLUSIONS The major finding of this study was "Adopting self-sacrifice" in the process of managing sexual dysfunctions during the menopausal transition. The reason for choosing this passive approach by the majority of women has deep roots in their cultural and traditional beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Bahri
- a Student Research Committee, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , the Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Robab Latifnejad Roudsari
- b Evidence-Based Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences , Mashhad , the Islamic Republic of Iran
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Avci D, Dogan S. The Impact of Sexual Dysfunction on Quality of Life of Patients with Asthma in Turkey. SEXUALITY AND DISABILITY 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11195-016-9468-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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The Relationship Between Life Satisfaction and Perceived Health and Sexuality in Individuals Diagnosed with a Physical Illness. SEXUALITY AND DISABILITY 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s11195-016-9456-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Prevalence of sexual dysfunction after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy. Gynecol Oncol 2016; 140:95-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2015.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2015] [Revised: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
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