Aspects Of Sexual Well-being Research Articles

It's not all that bad: associations among pain characteristics and sexual well-being in people living with chronic pain.

Individuals experiencing chronic pain often report adverse effects on their sexual functioning. However, other important aspects of sexual well-being (SWB), such as sexual distress and sexual self-esteem, have received little attention. This is an important omission because a SWB involves more than just good sexual function. Similarly, past research has not examined how chronic pain characteristics affect the different aspects of SWB. The goal of this cross-sectional study was to examine the SWB of individuals living with chronic pain and to examine the extent to which SWB is associated with different chronic pain characteristics. A total of 310 individuals (28.1% men, 70.6% women, 1.3% transgender men) with ages between 21 and 50 (M = 31.96, SD = 6.13) who were in a romantic relationship and with self-reported chronic pain for three months or longer completed an online survey. The following indicators of SWB were included in the study: frequency of genital sexual activity, sexual satisfaction, sexual self-esteem, sexual desire, sexual function, genital pain, and sexual distress. The results show that most individuals with chronic pain maintain an active and satisfying sexual life and feel positive about themselves as a sexual partner. Slightly more than a fourth reported experiencing at least one sexual functioning difficulty and almost three-fourths of them found those difficulties sexually distressing. A first canonical correlation showed that more negative pain characteristics were associated with poorer SWB. The second canonical correlation showed that greater perceived partner support can offset the negative relationship between pain and some aspects of SWB. These findings show that individuals living with chronic pain can experience positive SWB. Furthermore, the buffering effect of partner support suggests it is important to involve romantic partners in interventions aimed at improving the SWB of people living with chronic pain. The study examined a large number of indicators of SWB using a sample of individuals with different types of chronic pain. Limitations include potential self-selection bias and a sample that was predominantly white and highly educated. The results paint a more positive picture of the SWB of individuals living with pain and show that individuals living with chronic pain can experience positive SWB. These findings can help for researchers, educators, and clinicians about how to conceptualize, understand, and improve the SWB of individuals living with chronic pain.

(082) Erectile Dysfunction: Tool to Break Men's Sexual Stigma

Abstract Introduction Statistics reveal that a significant number of men, particularly those over the age of 30 and 50, experience some form of erectile dysfunction (ED). Shockingly, 8 out of 10 men suffering from ED do not take any proactive measures to treat or prevent it. This rise in ED cases has been closely linked to the increasing rates of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, with hypertension also being a contributing factor. As of 2017, nearly half of all adults in the US (47%, or 116 million) had hypertension. Unfortunately, many men choose to conceal or remain silent about their struggles with ED, primarily due to the social stigma that surrounds this issue. Objective Our goal is to break the stigma surrounding men’s sexual health, transform men's attitudes towards their intimate well-being, and encourage them to proactively prioritize it. We aim to encourage men to pay more attention to their sexual health and empower them to lead long, fulfilling intimate lives while also seeking timely medical assistance when needed. Methods We have developed a mobile application for iOS that allows men anonymously to discreetly monitor, maintain, and enhance their sexual health. The application offers the following features: 1. Physical and relaxation exercises, alongside a sexual activity tracker, enabling users to record details about sexual encounters, masturbation, and erection quality. For instance, the tracker revealed that men reported engaging in masturbation 40% more frequently than participating in sexual activities. Additionally, 17.8% of users experienced incomplete erections during intercourse, while a significant 71% of men were affected by varying degrees of erectile dysfunction (ED). 2. Educational content: Articles categorized into topics such as sexual education, diseases, sexual education for children and teenagers, gender identity, and more. 3. Regular "Check-up" feature helps users keep track of recommended tests based on their age, providing reminders for scheduled doctor's visits. It is important to note that the application doesn't replace a visit to a doctor. In June 2023, a user survey was conducted to assess the impact of the application on men's health, and 57 male participants were recruited from the app's user base, voluntarily participating in the study. Results The findings revealed that the majority of participants reported positive changes in their sexual health after using the application. 1. 75% reported a general improvement in their sexual health. These positive changes encompassed various aspects of sexual well-being, such as erectile function, libido, orgasm intensity, and overall satisfaction. 2. 42% reported an improvement in the quality of their erections. 3. 23% experienced more intense orgasms. 4. 25% reported an increase in their libido. 5. 42% became more aware of their sexual health. Conclusions The survey findings suggest that the app may have contributed to improvements in various aspects of sexual well-being, including erection quality, orgasm intensity, libido, and sexual health awareness. The results highlight the potential value of the application as a tool for men seeking to monitor, enhance, and unlock the full potential of their sexual health. Disclosure No.

War-Time Stress and Sexual Well-Being in Israel

Objective This study explored the relationship between war-related stressors and sexual well-being among a civilian population during the 2023 Israel–Hamas War, emphasizing a comprehensive assessment of sexual satisfaction, function, and distress. We aimed to investigate how direct exposure, media exposure, and acute stress symptoms during the war contribute to various dimensions of sexual well-being using a quasi-longitudinal online survey method. Methods An online survey with a convenience sample of 1033 Israeli adults, utilizing measures of direct and media exposure to war stress, acute stress symptoms, and various aspects of sexual well-being, both pre-war and present was distributed. Data analysis involved Pearson correlations and hierarchical regression. Results There were significant associations between stress-related variables and sexual well-being, highlighting the differential contribution of direct exposure, media exposure, and acute stress symptoms. Direct exposure to stress was uniquely associated with sexual dysfunction, while media exposure and acute stress symptoms contributed significantly to predicting various aspects of sexual well-being. Conclusions Recognizing the multifaceted impact of stress during wartime on sexual well-being is crucial for developing comprehensive mental health interventions that address individual and societal factors. This study contributes valuable insights into the relationships between stress-related variables and sexual well-being during wartime, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches in addressing the intimate challenges individuals face during times of conflict.

Sexual wellbeing in early adolescence: a cross-sectional assessment among girls and boys in urban Indonesia

BackgroundEarly adolescence (ages 10–14) is a critical period of physical, cognitive, social and emotional development, which affect sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Yet, little is known about positive or healthy aspects of sexuality development during this period of life, especially in South East Asia where sexual norms remain restrictive. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence and correlates of sexual wellbeing among early adolescent girls and boys ages 10–14 years in Indonesia.MethodsData for this cross-sectional study were collected as part of the Global Early Adolescent Study via a school-based survey in three Indonesian urban sites in 2018 (N = 4309). We assessed the prevalence of multiple indicators of sexual wellbeing (e.g. SRHR knowledge and communication, gender attitudes, body satisfaction, self-efficacy, freedom from violence) and tested for differences by sex using Chi-square, Student t-test, and Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the adjusted odds ratio of selected indicators in relation to sociodemographic factors, romantic relationship status, and sexual activities.ResultsThe mean age of students was 12 years (53% girls); 90% had started puberty. SRHR knowledge and communication was low overall, but higher among boys than girls. Boys were more likely than girls to report high body satisfaction, less feelings of guilt in relation to sexuality, but also to have experienced physical peer violence. In contrast, girls were more likely to hold gender equal attitudes, greater perceived self-efficacy to say ‘no’, and to report being bullied by boys. In multivariable models, romantic relationship experiences, perceived voice (boys and girls) and decision-making (girls) were associated with three or more indicators of sexual wellbeing.ConclusionsWhile young adolescents in Indonesia score high on some aspects of sexual wellbeing, misconceptions, feelings of guilt and uncertainties related to sexuality are common, with clear gender differences. These findings confirm the need for comprehensive sexuality education that begins early in adolescence.

Sexuality and Intimacy Among Older Women Living with HIV: a Systematic Review.

Sexual well-being and intimacy are critical to overall quality of life and retain a high degree of significance for aging individuals, even though these considerations are often overlooked in older populations. Sexual health may be particularly impacted in older individuals living with HIV, especially women, as a result of both physical and psychosocial disease-specific factors. Despite this, sexuality research related to HIV has traditionally focused on risk reduction, rather than on other elements of sexual wellness. In this review, we examine several aspects of sexual well-being that may be important to older women living with HIV (OWLH). This review summarizes existing literature on sexuality in OWLH over the age of 50 and explores five themes related to sexual health: physical and emotional intimacy, desire/interest, satisfaction/pleasure, frequency of sexual activity, and abstinence. Reduced intimacy among OWLH was reported across most studies, due to stigma and disclosure concerns, lack of opportunity for relationships, and difficulty communicating sexual preferences. Data on sexual desire/interest and satisfaction/pleasure among OWLH were mixed. Frequency of sexual activity varied widely across studies, and abstinence emerged as both an intentional and inadvertent decision for OWLH. Factors related to menopause as it relates to sexuality and HIV are also discussed. Sexual health and well-being are important to women living with HIV over 50, though key components such as intimacy, desire, and pleasure remain poorly understood. As this population continues to grow, comprehensive and age-specific interventions are needed to examine positive aspects of sexuality and promote sexual wellness among OWLH.

Brief Report: Sexual Wellbeing in Heterosexual, Mostly Heterosexual, and Bisexually Attracted Men and Women

Objective: To assess differences in sexual wellbeing among men and women with exclusively heterosexual, mostly heterosexual, and bisexual attractions. Method: An anonymous online survey in a convenience sample of 597 young adults (394 women, 203 men; average age = 20.04) assessed patterns of sexual attraction, desire, sexual functioning, and sexual satisfaction using validated questionnaires. Results: Individuals with mostly heterosexual attractions reported significantly higher solitary sexual desire than exclusively heterosexual individuals (women: d = 0.64; men: d = 0.68). Partnered sexual desire did not differ between groups. Women with exclusively heterosexual attractions reported significantly higher sexual functioning and satisfaction than either mostly heterosexual or bisexually attracted women (functioning: d = 0.29; satisfaction: d = 0.47). Men with mostly heterosexual attractions reported significantly lower sexual functioning than either exclusively heterosexual or bisexually attracted men (d = 0.40). Conclusions: There were significant differences between exclusively vs. mostly heterosexual individuals in several aspects of sexual wellbeing, supporting the assertion that mostly heterosexual may constitute a distinct orientation. Taken together with prior research showing higher rates of sexual dysfunction in bisexual women, these findings highlight sexual health disparities among nonmonosexual women. Efforts to support the sexual wellbeing of sexual minority individuals should include consideration of mostly heterosexual individuals, as this population may have unique sexual health needs.

Sexual well-being of sexual minority women in dating relationships who have experienced childhood sexual abuse and/or adolescent and adult sexual victimization

Few studies have examined the sexual sequelae of child sexual abuse (CSA) for sexual minority women (SMW), particularly SMW in dating relationships. We examined the impact of CSA on several aspects of sexual well-being. Participants were 299 SMW in a non-cohabiting dating relationship who completed an online survey that assessed CSA, adolescent and adult sexual victimization (AASV) and their behavioural, motivational, and cognitive-affective sexual responses. Four groups were formed based on sexual abuse experiences before the age of 14: No lifetime sexual abuse (NSA Group); AASV only (AASV Group); CSA limited to fondling (CSAfon Group); and, CSA involving attempted/completed vaginal, oral and/or anal penetration (CSApen Group). Women in the CSAfon and CSApen groups were significantly more likely to report having experienced AASV (77% and 56%, respectively) than were women in the AASV and NSA groups (32%). Women in the CSApen Group reported significantly lower sexual desire and sexual satisfaction, and more frequent negative automatic sexual thoughts than women in the other groups but no differences in their frequency of sexual behaviours, sexual duration, sexual esteem, or sexual anxiety. The AASV Group did not differ from the NSA Group on any of the sexual well-being variables. Overall, women in all four groups generally reported positive sexual well-being. These results suggest CSA involving attempted/completed penetration with or without subsequent AASV negatively affects only some aspects of SMW's sexual well-being. They also suggest SMW who have experienced sexual abuse can and do enjoy healthy sexual well-being within the context of a dating relationship.

Comparison of the Sexual Well-Being of Individuals with and Without a Herpes and/or Human Papillomavirus Infection Diagnosis

ABSTRACT. This study compared individuals with and without herpes and/or human papillomavirus (HPV) on several aspects of sexual well-being. We also investigated whether gender and relationship status moderated these relationships. Participants were 183 individuals with herpes and HPV and 299 without a diagnosis who completed measures of sexual activity, sexual concerns, and sexual cognitive–affective factors. Individuals with herpes and HPV reported being less sexually satisfied and were more likely to experience a distressing sexual problem than were those with no sexually transmitted infections. However, they reported high-quality sexual well-being overall and, contrary to prediction, reported more positive sexual well-being compared with individuals without a diagnosis on some dimensions. Outcomes were largely the same regardless of gender and relationship status. The results are discussed in terms of the importance of examining a broad range of factors related to sexuality to understand the potential impact of herpes and HPV on sexual well-being.

Psychosocial impact of prostate cancer surgery on sexual intimacy

e20685 Background: Prostate cancer survivors live with the day-to-day consequences of the disease and its treatment. Prostate cancer, has been labeled a “relationship disease” because it impacts both partners. Traditional research does not include psychosocial aspects of sexual well-being. We designed a retrospective survey asking patients’ and their partners’ about the physiologic and psychosocial changes experienced after prostate cancer treatment. Methods: The study design is a cross sectional retrospective mailing sent to men treated surgically for prostate cancer. Questions related to physiologic changes centered around foreplay, libido, erection, orgasm and ejaculation while emotional status, relationship/partnership quality, self image, and social support comprised the psychological questions. Of the total 47 items, 18 items assessed the above concepts in binary fashion while the remaining 29 used a Likert scale. Results: After obtaining IRB approval, we mailed consents to 368 men. Only 65 men acknowledged receiving the information and 51 consented to participate. The participants were a median age of 59.6, predominantly Caucasian (80%), and treated by prostatectomy or cryotherapy. In terms of emotional status, 20% were diagnosed with depression and 10% with anxiety since their prostate cancer diagnosis and of those 32% felt it affected their sexual status. One third of the men rated their overall sexual relationship with their partner as “poor.” Of those men, 44% also perceived their partner was supportive. Over 80% felt their partnership quality was “stable,” “strong,” and “happy.” Almost half (43%) of the men experienced a decrease in self-esteem while 16% were unhappy with their physical appearance. While few men (4%) availed themselves of support groups, 18% found the advice of other patients helpful in coping with their sexuality. The side effects were unexpected in nearly half (43%) of the men. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that prostate cancer treatment may be associated with psychosocial problems related to depression, anxiety, and self- esteem that impact sexual relationships. Although prospective validated questionnaires are needed to confirm these findings, better counseling through the disease trajectory may help combat these emotional issues. No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A Cross-National Study of Subjective Sexual Well-Being Among Older Women and Men: Findings From the Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors

Subjective sexual well-being refers to the cognitive and emotional evaluation of an individual's sexuality. This study examined subjective sexual well-being, explored its various aspects, examined predictors across different cultures, and investigated its possible associations with overall happiness and selected correlates, including sexual dysfunction. Data were drawn from the Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors, a survey of 27,500 men and women aged 40-80 years in 29 countries. The cross-national variation of four aspects of sexual well-being (the emotional and physical satisfaction of sexual relationships, satisfaction with sexual health or function, and the importance of sex in one's life) was explored using cluster analysis, and relationships among sexual well-being, general happiness, and various correlates were examined using ordinary least squares regression and ordered logistic regression. Results from the cluster analysis identified three clusters: a gender-equal regime and two male-centered regimes. Despite this cultural variation, the predictors of subjective sexual well-being were found to be largely consistent across world regions.