Is There a Direct Link between Sexual Satisfaction and Restrictions during the Second Wave of the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Predictors of sexual satisfaction among patients with chronic pain

Objectives

Sexual satisfaction is an important aspect of quality of life. Chronic pain, depression and anxiety, and relational problems correspond with higher risk for sexual difficulties. Less is known about how risk factors for sexual dysfunction and other problems-such as medical conditions, pain severity, and medication side effects-affect the sexual satisfaction of people with chronic pain. Using a biopsychosocial framework, this study explored factors related to sexual satisfaction among patients presenting for evaluation of chronic pain.

Methods

Researchers used a hierarchical multiple regression analysis to model potential predictors of sexual satisfaction. Variables analyzed were demographic features, medical history, average pain severity, depressed mood, anxiety, and perceived significant other support. Data collection involved administration of retrospective questionnaires and chart review. The sample included male and female participants (N = 134) presenting for evaluation at a multidisciplinary pain rehabilitation clinic.

Results

Medical history (i.e., medical conditions, surgical history, and medications) and clinical self-report variables (i.e., pain severity, depressed mood, anxiety, and perceived significant other support) were associated with sexual satisfaction. In this sample, antidepressant use and higher pain severity were unique predictors of lower sexual satisfaction. Married marital status and higher levels of perceived significant other support were predictive of greater sexual satisfaction.

Discussion

Findings highlight the importance of understanding the unique impact of biopsychosocial variables on the sexual satisfaction of patients presenting for evaluation at a multidisciplinary pain rehabilitation clinic. Further exploration of protective factors that account for sexual satisfaction among individuals with chronic pain may help inform screening, referrals, and treatment.

The Comparison of Patient Characteristics, Therapy Outcome, and Sexual Functions in Vaginismus Patients Prior to and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background The objective of this study conducted at one center is to compare the demographic features and female sexual functions of patients treated for vaginismus before the COVID-19 pandemic to those treated for vaginismus during the pandemic. Aim Additionally, the study intends to evaluate the results of vaginismus therapy and assess the post-treatment sexual functioning of women. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on the medical records of patients diagnosed with vaginismus who sought treatment between March 2018 and March 2022. The enrolled patients were categorized into two groups: the pre-COVID-19 group and the COVID-19 group. The following data have been collected: age, education level, occupation, and marriage duration. After three months of treatment, the patients were called for a follow-up examination and evaluation of their sexual functions. Outcomes Compared to the pre-COVID-19 group, an increase of 52.51% was observed in the number of patients admitted for treatment in the COVID-19 group. Results The severity of vaginismus in the patients was similar in both groups. There were no statistically significant changes observed in any of the areas of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scale. Clinical implications According to our findings, there was no significant difference in female sexual functioning between women who had vaginismus treatment during the pandemic and those who underwent pre-pandemic treatment. Strengths and limitations The research sample comprised women who sought medical care at our women's health clinic. Conclusions We believe that vaginismus patients who had previously avoided seeking treatment are now seeking it during the pandemic.

The sexuality of couples formed during the pandemic: An exploratory study

Covid-19 has been affecting people's lives on a social, economic, emotional, and sexual level. This study aims to investigate any change in how couples formed during the pandemic got to know the partner and experienced sexuality, including factors that could have influenced those changes in comparison with a pre-pandemic period. Particularly, focus groups (N = 26 women) were conducted and an online questionnaire (N = 120; 41 men and 79 women) was administered. Given the exploratory qualitative nature of the present research, no specific hypothesis was tested. Most of the sample reported an increase in sexual desire, sexual frequency, and quality of intercourse, perceiving an early development of intimacy. The results highlight the lack of stress and fear of contagion. The intense state of euphoria, typical of the initial phase of the relationship, has perhaps allowed the couples to overcome the obstacles due to the restrictions. This study underlines the role of being in love in the survival of the species, as it allows for the creation of steady relationships even in moments of danger.

Changes in Couples' Relationships and Their Differences in Type during the COVID-19 Pandemic in China

PURPOSE

This study explores changes in couples' relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic, and analyzes the differences in the changes across three types: positive communication, criticism/defense, and demand/withdrawal.

METHOD

A total of 600 (567 valid) Chinese respondents participated in this study, and a questionnaire was utilized to determine changes in their overall relationship, verbal and nonverbal communication, emotion, and activities with their spouses.

RESULTS

The average score of items related to positive communication is higher, compared with that of negative communication. Compared with the other two types of relationships, respondents with positive communication scored highest on all items related to positive communication and lowest on all items related to negative communication. Significant differences were noted between the positive communication types and the others.

CONCLUSIONS

Results show that the relationships of couples included in this study have improved during the current pandemic. Therefore, improved consistency in the type of intimacy can lead to improved quality of couples' relationships during the COVID-19 pandemic.