Dimensions Of Sexual Function Research Articles

Validity and Reliability Evidence and Norms for the Spanish Version of the Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales-Short Form.

The Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scales-Short Form (SIS/SES-SF) is a brief instrument for assessing the propensity for sexual excitement and inhibition in men and women. The aim of the present study was to provide evidence for the validity and reliability of the Spanish version of the SIS/SES-SF scores by examining invariance, reliability (information function and internal consistency), the relationship between the scores and sexual functioning, and presenting its standard scores. A total of 2,223 Spanish heterosexuals (43.41% men and 56.59% women) aged 18 to 83 years (M = 39.94, SD = 11.95), distributed across age groups (18-34, 35-49, ≥ 50 years old) participated. The three-factor structure of the Spanish version of SIS/SES-SF showed weak measurement invariance by sex and strict measurement invariance by age. The scores explained the dimensions of sexual functioning, especially sexual arousal and erection/lubrication. In addition, men and women without difficulties in sexual functioning demonstrated more propensity for sexual excitation and less sexual inhibition. The standard scores are presented by sex and age group. The study provides evidence of the validity and reliability of the SIS/SES-SF measures, confirming its usefulness for assessing propensity to sexual excitation and inhibition.

(119) Anathema: Pilot Study to Assess the Acceptability, Feasibility, and Preliminary Efficacy of a Digital Intervention to Promote Sexual Health in Colorectal Cancer Survivors

Abstract Introduction Introduction: Sexual health is a central dimension of overall health and quality of life, yet it remains a largely neglected component in vulnerable populations such as cancer patients. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is currently one of the most prevalent types of cancer worldwide, and its treatments negatively affect people's sexual and relational health and well-being throughout the course of the disease. Notwithstanding the negative impact of treatments on different dimensions of sexual functioning (e.g., changes in sexual desire, sexual arousal, and orgasm experience), on the experience of pleasure and sexual satisfaction of people with CRC, access to specialized support is often hampered due to organizational, geographical, and attitudinal barriers (e.g., stigma). Given their intimate nature, accessibility, and convenience/flexibility, smartphone-based digital interventions can help bridge this gap and be an important supportive tool to effectively address unmet sexual health care needs in people with CRC. However, there is still a lack of studies evaluating the acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of smartphone-based sexual health promotion programs for people with CRC. Objective Objectives: The objective of this study is to evaluate the acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary efficacy of Anathema, a program developed for the promotion of the sexual health of CRC survivors. Methods Methods: A randomized controlled pilot study is underway and involves 30 CRC survivors randomly assigned to an experimental group (with access to the program) and a waiting list control group (treatment as usual). The program was structured into five modules to be completed in 8 weeks and developed based on the principles of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. An institutional Ethical Board approved the study. Acceptability, usability, and feasibility of Anathema were the primary outcomes defined in this study. Sexual and relational satisfaction, sexual functioning and distress, sexual pleasure, and quality of life were defined as secondary outcomes. Results Results: The participatory design used throughout the different phases of this project anticipates a good acceptability of the program among its primary users. It is also expected that the program and the design adopted will be suitable for the future implementation of an RCT. Improvement in levels of sexual and relationship satisfaction, sexual pleasure, quality of life, and a decrease in levels of sexual distress in people who use the program compared to people in the waiting list group, are also expected. Conclusions Conclusions: Anathema is a promising program for promoting sexual health and quality of life in CRC survivors. Funding source: This project is jointly funded by the European Commission through the AAL Program (ref. AAL-2020-7-133-CP) and its Member States: Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, in Portugal (AAL/0005/2020), Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG), in Austria, and ZonMw, the Netherlands Organization for Health Research and Development, in the Netherlands. Disclosure No.

Communication and sexual function and frequency in breast cancer patients 2years after diagnosis: results from the VICAN 2 study.

Breast cancer treatments may have impacts on several aspects of sexual health, including psychological, psychosexual, physiological, physical, and relational. In this study we sought to assess sexual function and sexual frequency in breast cancer patients 2years after diagnosis. We selected all breast cancer participants from the the French national VIe après le CANcer 2 (VICAN 2) longitudinal study. Data sources included patient and medical questionnaires, along with medico-administrative databases. Outcomes assessed were the dimensions of sexual function and frequency from the Relationship and Sexuality Scale and communication about sexuality with healthcare providers. Out of 1350 participating women, 60.2% experienced a decrease in sexual desire, 61.4% reported a lower frequency of intercourse, and 49.5% faced decreased ability to orgasm. In contrast, 64.8% had engaged in sexual intercourse in the previous 2 weeks, 89.5% were "Somewhat" to "Very much" satisfied with the frequency of intimate touching and kisses with their partner, and 81.6% expressed satisfaction with their intercourse frequency. However, a mere 15% of women discussed sexuality with the healthcare providers. Independent factors associated with increased communication about sexuality included age younger than 50 years (OR = 1.90 95% CI [1.28-2.82], P = .001), being in a partner relationship (OR = 2.53 95% CI [1.28-2.82], P = .003), monthly income above 1,500 euros (OR = 1.73 95% CI [1.15-2.60], P = .009), and absence of diabetes (OR = 6.11 95% CI [1.39-26.93], P = .017). The study findings underscore the need for continuing education in oncosexology and dedicated sexual health interventions that should involve a holistic approach that takes into consideration age, treatments, relationship status, and whether the patient has diabetes. Strengths of the study are the sample size, the national representativeness, and data reliability. However, the cross-sectional design could introduce potential recall, recency, or social desirability biases. Also, social determinants influencing sexual health, such as ethnicity or geographic locations, have not been considered in the analyses. This study revealed that sexual disorders persist 2 years after a breast cancer diagnosis, with a noticeable communication gap regarding sexuality between patients and medical teams. These findings underscore the necessity for tailored sexual health interventions, particularly designed for women who are single, older aged, and diabetes patients.

Does loneliness mediate the association between social media use disorder and sexual function in Lebanese university students?

ABSTRACT Research on the association between social media use disorder (SMUD) and face-to-face sexual function remains controversial, surprisingly scarce and even non-existing in certain vulnerable populations such as university students. We aimed to explore the mediating role of loneliness between SMUD and two dimensions of sexual function (sexual arousal and desire) in a sample of Lebanese university students. A total of 363 university students participated in a cross-sectional survey. Sexual Dysfunction Questionnaire, Jong-Gierveld Loneliness Scale and Social Media Use Disorder scale were used to measure sexual function (desire and arousal), loneliness and SMUD respectively. The mediation analysis results showed that loneliness mediated the association between SMUD and sexual arousal (but not sexual desire). Higher SMUD was significantly associated with more loneliness, whereas more loneliness was significantly associated with less sexual arousal. Subsequently, higher SMUD was significantly associated with less sexual arousal. The present findings edge the university staff, clinicians, and researchers towards the psychological mechanisms that may help university students improve their sexual function, and calls for additional research in this area. Attention should be given to the possible potential role of moderating social media use in tackling loneliness and improving students’ sexual function. In addition, routine sexual counseling should be considered when assessing and intervening with students having SMUD.

(005) When Paying Attention is Inconvenient: The Effect of Negative Thoughts During Sex on Female Sexual Response

Abstract Introduction To evaluate the presence of negative thoughts and how these interfere with sexual functioning (as hypothesized by Barlow, 1986), Nobre and Pinto-Gouveia (2003) developed the Automatic Negative Thoughts scale (ANT). Research using this scale has shown that negative thoughts during sex interferes with subjective sexual arousal (SSA), lubrication, and orgasm (Cuntim and Nobre, 2011; Nobre & Pinto-Gouveia, 2003). While this early work has made a crucial contribution toward understanding how negative thoughts are associated with female sexual response, the ANT has important limitations. One limitation is that some items are not relevant to the constructs they are supposed to measure (e.g., “I have more important matters to deal with” is part of the “Sexual Abuse Thoughts” factor; and “This way of having sex is immoral” is part of the “Partner’s Lack of Affection” factor), and thus in some cases it is not clear what the scales themselves are measuring. Moreover, effect sizes on sexual functioning are modest, and the full measure is long. Objective The aim of this study was to test a new measure of negative thoughts during sex (NTs) and to investigate the associations between specific types of NTs and specific domains of sexual functioning. Using fewer and more focused questions we also aimed at having a shorter and more precise measure. Methods A sample of 138 female university students completed questionnaires investigating frequency of specific NTs and female sexual functioning (measured through the FSFI). Structural equation modelling was used to test the effect of NTs, as a latent construct, on three dimensions of sexual functioning, namely SSA, lubrication, and orgasm. Next, the effect of the four individual domains of NTs (i.e., orgasm, body image, fear of being hurt, and external thoughts) on SSA, lubrication and orgasm, was tested. Results The first SEM model fits the data well (CFI = .97; NFI = .93; RMSEA = .08). This model is presented in Figure 1 and shows that NTs have strong direct negative effects on SSA (78% variance explained), lubrication (76% variance explained), and orgasm (63% variance explained). Moreover, NTs also have an indirect effect on lubrication, mediated by SSA. The effects of single domains of NTs are presented in Figure 2 (saturated model). Overall, NTs about orgasm and fear of being hurt showed negative associations with orgasm and SSA, external thoughts showed an effect on SSA and lubrication, and NTs about body image showed no significant association. Conclusions The new measure of NTs has advantages of brevity, specificity, and stronger effect sizes as compared to the ANT. These data provide increasingly strong evidence that NTs significantly interfere with women’s sexual response, and that some domains of NTs have a stronger impact than others on different domains of sexual functioning. More work is needed to understand the sources and types of NTs, and their role in different aspects of sexual response. Furthermore, neuroimaging technology should be exploited to shed light on the neural pathways involved in cognitive interference and sexual inhibition, which are expected to be linked with the presence of NTs. Disclosure No

Prevalence of sexual dysfunction in HTLV-1 patients without spastic paraparesis and the association with psychiatric symptoms.

The findings of previous studies are inconclusive in terms of psychological abnormalities and sexual function in asymptomatic human lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) carriers. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its relationship with psychological abnormalities in asymptomatic HTLV-1 carriers. This cross-sectional study was conducted on asymptomatic HTLV-1 patients who were referred to the Neurology Clinic of a tertiary hospital in Mashhad, Iran. Patients with spastic paraparesis, leukemia, and uveitis, and those with an expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score higher than 2 were excluded. Sexual function in male and female subjects was evaluated using the brief male sexual function inventory (BMSFI) and female sexual dysfunction index (FSFI) questionnaires, respectively. The severity of psychological symptoms was evaluated in all patients using the symptom checklist-90-revised (SCL-90-R) questionnaire. A total of 117 patients (61 males and 56 females) with a mean age of 35.3 ± 6.3 years were evaluated. Overall, 50.9% of males had a high and 39.3% of females had a good sexual function. Both male and female patients with poor sexual function were older and had more children compared to those with good sexual function (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the distribution pattern of SCL-90 domains between patients with high and low to moderate sexual function among male patients (P > 0.05). Depression, hostility, interpersonal sensitivity, paranoid ideation, and psychological abnormality were significantly more prevalent in female patients with poor sexual function compared to those with good sexual function (P < 0.05). The prevalence of psychological abnormalities was high in female with sexual dysfunction and these disorders might have a negative effect on various dimensions of sexual function.

Solitary Sexual Desire: Its Relation to Subjective Orgasm Experience and Sexual Arousal in the Masturbation Context within a Spanish Population.

The tridimensional sexual desire proposal (i.e., dyadic to partner, dyadic to attractive other and solitary) has been empirically supported. However, solitary sexual desire and its relationship to other dimensions of sexual functioning has received less attention. Hence, we examined the capacity of solitary sexual desire to explain the subjective orgasm experience (Study 1) and sexual arousal (Study 2) in the context of solitary masturbation. Study 1, composed of 2406 heterosexual adults (M age = 39.72, SD = 11.81), assessed for solitary sexual desire, dyadic sexual desire, and the intensity of the subjective orgasm experience obtained through solitary masturbation, along with other associated parameters. Study 2, consisting of 41 heterosexual young people (M age = 22.49, SD = 3.17), evaluated the genital response (penile circumference/vaginal pulse amplitude) and subjective arousal to sexually explicit films related to solitary masturbation. In both men and women, solitary sexual desire accounted for a significant percentage of the subjective orgasm experience obtained through solitary masturbation. In addition, in women, the propensity for sexual arousal was explained by solitary sexual desire. It is concluded that solitary sexual desire -as opposed to dyadic- is important to explain sexual arousal and orgasm in the solitary masturbation context. These results highlight the importance of addressing sexual desire in the solitary context, given its implications with other dimensions of sexual functioning.

Sexual functioning beliefs, sexual satisfaction, and sexual functioning in women: a cross-sectional mediation analysis

Sexual dysfunctional beliefs are known to be negative predictors of women's sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction, but little is known about the role that beliefs about sexual functioning play in women's sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction. The purpose of the present study was to examine the mediating role of sexual functioning in the relationship between women's beliefs about sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction. A sample of 301 women was invited to participate in a web survey about female sexuality in May 2020. Participants completed the sociodemographic questionnaire, the Beliefs About Sexual Functioning Scale, the Sexual Satisfaction Scale for Women, and the Female Sexual Functioning Index. Sexual functioning was a significant mediator in the relationship between beliefs about sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction in women. When the dimensions of sexual functioning were considered as mediators, only sexual desire and absence of sexual pain were significant mediators in the relationship between beliefs about sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction in women. Negative beliefs about sexual functioning in women are associated with poor sexual functioning and lack of sexual satisfaction. Therefore, beliefs about sexual functioning should be assessed during the intervention for women's sexual difficulties and to increase sexual pleasure and satisfaction. In addition, special attention should be paid to women with problems with sexual desire and sexual pain when beliefs about sexual functioning are being assessed. This study is one of the first attempts to explore the role of beliefs about sexual functioning in women's sexual satisfaction and to examine the mediating role of sexual functioning. Limitations include the small sample size, the lack of a clinical sample, and the nonlongitudinal methodological approach. Beliefs about sexual functioning are a negative predictor of sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction in women. In addition, women with sexual pain and lack of sexual desire are more likely to have lower sexual satisfaction if they have more negative beliefs about sexual functioning.

Effects of evening primrose oil capsules on the sexual function of reproductive-aged women: A randomized clinical trial study

The current study aimed to examine the effects of oral consumption of evening primrose oil capsules on the sexual function of reproductive-aged women. This trial was performed on 110 women. The study units were randomly divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received a 1000 mg evening primrose oil capsule daily for eight weeks, and the control group received a 1000 mg placebo capsule daily for the same time. Before the intervention, 4 and 8 weeks after the intervention, their sexual function was evaluated by the female sexual function index. The mean total score of sexual function in the intervention group was significantly improved compared to pre-intervention ( P < 0.001) and the control group ( P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant difference in all dimensions of sexual function except pain compared to pre-intervention in the intervention group; however, between the two groups of intervention and control, only in the dimensions of orgasm ( P = 0.04) and sexual satisfaction ( P = 0.001) statistically significant differences were observed. The results indicated that the consumption of evening primrose oil capsules can improve sexual function in women of reproductive age, particularly in orgasm and sexual satisfaction dimensions.

Predictors of altered states of consciousness triggered by sexual activity

ABSTRACT Introduction Altered states of consciousness (ASCs) refer to marked changes in usual waking consciousness. Sexual arousal, orgasm, and resolution, are modulated by neural pathways that are also activated by psychoactive substances that trigger ASCs. Relatedly, self-report studies show that sexual activity may trigger ASCs. However, investigation about sex-related ASCs is scarce. More knowledge in this regard is important, as these states can be pleasant and enriching. Objectives To explore correlates and predictors of ASCs elicited by sexual activity. Method The international sample consisted of 291 participants who responded to an online survey (196 women, 95 men). Sexual functioning was measured with the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15). The Modified Tellegen Absorption Scale was used to measure the general propensity to experience ASCs by various triggers (absorption). Alterations of consciousness beginning during or shortly after the last sexual encounter were assessed by four subscales of the Altered States of Consciousness Rating Scale (OAV): 1) Experience of Unity (sense of merging between self and surroundings), 2) Spiritual Experience (sense of connection with a reality outside space and time as ordinarily experienced), 3) Insightfulness (emergence of original thoughts), 4) Blissful State (unusual sense of pleasure, peace, and love). Results Better female sexual function (FSFI total score) correlated significantly with Experience of Unity (r = .24), Blissful State (r = .37), Spiritual Experience (r = .25), and marginally with Insightfulness (r = .15, p = .069). Arousal was the dimension of female sexual function more robustly correlated with ASCs; female arousal correlated with Experience of Unity (r = .27), Blissful State (r = .40), Spiritual Experience (r = .24), and Insightfulness (r = .20). Women's absorption was significantly related to higher desire (r = .15), but not to other dimensions of sexual functioning. In women, sexual arousal and absorption independently predicted Experience of Unity (βSA = .26, βAB = .45), Spiritual Experience (βSA = .23, βAB = .50), Blissful State (βSA = .40, βAB = .29), and Insightfulness (βSA = .19, βAB = .47). All other dimensions of female sexual functioning did not significantly explain additional variance. Men's associations between sexual functioning and ASCs were less consistent: male sexual satisfaction was significantly associated with Experience of Unity (r = .25), Blissful State (r = .34), and Insightfulness (r = .28); male orgasmic function was associated with Blissful State (r =.35). Other IIEF-15 dimensions were unrelated to ASCs. In men, sexual satisfaction and absorption independently predicted Experience of Unity (βSS = .29, βAB = .48), Spiritual Experience (βss = .20, βAB = .52), Blissful State (βSS = .37, βAB = .33), and Insightfulness (βSS = .33, βAB = .51). Conclusions The occurrence of sex-related ASCs appears to be independently related to sexual responsiveness and general propensity to experience ASCs by a variety of triggers, sexual and nonsexual. As noted in previous studies, ASCs and sexual functioning were more strongly related in women than in men. Studies on the importance of ASCs for sexual well-being are warranted. Disclosure Work supported by industry: no.

Sexual function and problematic use of smartphones and online social networking sites

ABSTRACT Introduction Use of new technologies, such as smartphones and online social networks, becomes problematic when it acquires addictive-like qualities that interfere in well-being and important activities. Problematic use of smartphones and online social networks has been related to many forms of psychopathology. Investigation supports that sexual function may be disturbed by addictive-like use of online social networking, but research on the topic is surprisingly scarce. Objectives To examine correlations between sexual functioning and problematic use of smartphones and online social networking sites. Method The sample was obtained by aggregating data from four studies that collected information on sexual function and problematic use of smartphones and/or online social networks by means of online surveys. The total number of participants was 1,446 respondents (mostly Portuguese). There were 1,166 participants providing information on smartphone use, and 683 providing information on use of online social networking sites. Measures included the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15), the Smartphone Addiction Scale (Short Version), and the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) specifically adapted to use of online social networking sites. Results In women, more problematic use of online social networking sites correlated with lower desire (rho = -.11, p = .011), lower arousal (rho = -.20, p &amp;lt; .001), lesser lubrication (rho = -.15, p = .001), difficulties having orgasms (rho = -.25, p &amp;lt; .001), sexual dissatisfaction (rho = -.25, p &amp;lt; 001), coital pain (rho = -.21, p &amp;lt; .001), and sexual distress (rho = .38, p &amp;lt; .001). In men, more problematic use of online social networking sites correlated with lower erectile function (rho = -.29, p &amp;lt; .001), difficulties having orgasms (rho = -.23, p = .003), dissatisfaction with intercourse (rho = -.18, p = .024), and general sexual dissatisfaction (rho = -.36, p &amp;lt; .001), but not with desire (rho = -.14, p = .075). Correlations of sexual function with problematic use of smartphones followed similar trends, but in a weaker and less consistent manner. In women, problematic use of smartphones correlated with lower arousal (rho = -.11, p = .001), difficulties lubricating (rho = -.17, p &amp;lt; .001), difficulties having orgasms (rho = -.19, p &amp;lt; .001), dissatisfaction (rho = -.10, p = .002), pain (rho = -.22, p &amp;lt; .001), and sexual distress (rho = -.24, p &amp;lt; .001), but not with desire (rho = -.06, p = .077). In men, problematic use of smartphones correlated with lower erectile function (rho = -.20, p = .002), but not with the other dimensions of sexual functioning (-.11 &amp;lt; rho &amp;lt; -.07, p &amp;gt; .10). In regressions models, sexual difficulties were not predicted by problematic smartphone use after controlling for problematic use of online social networks, which was the only significant predictor. Entering age as additional predictor did not influence the results. Conclusions Problematic use of online social networks appears to be associated with sexual difficulties. Problematic smartphone use might not be associated with sexual difficulties independently of addictive-like engagement in online social networking. Disclosure Work supported by industry: no.

SEXUAL FUNCTIONING OF WOMEN IN SERBIA: RELATIONS WITH ATTACHMENT

Attachment style is an important element of partnership dynamics and can be related to different indicators of relationship quality, including sexual relationship. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between female sexual functioning (FSF) and characteristics of partner attachment. In this paper, female sexual functioning will be examined through the following dimensions: the intensity of sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, sexual life satisfaction, and pain during intercourse. In case of existing issues, these categories of functioning are considered to be indicators of female sexual dysfunction. The research was conducted on a convenience sample of 284 female participants aged 18 to 65, from Serbia, all having partner relations longer than 6 months. Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) was present in 24.6% of the sample, while 75.4% had no symptoms. Looking at dimensions of sexual functioning separately, the most common issues were related to sexual desire and the least commonly reported problems were related to lubrication and pain. There were moderate correlations between the total measure of FSF and dimensions of attachment. Canonical correlation analysis indicated that attachment is highly correlated with subjective experience of sexual life satisfaction. Research results are in accordance with the results of foreign studies and, despite many limitations, they represent a significant starting point for future studies in our region relating attachment to sexual behaviour or dysfunctions.

Effect of Post Marriage Marital Skills Educational Program on Sexual Function of Women Referring to the Marriage Counseling Center of Mehriz City

Introduction: Sexual health is an important aspect of public health, especially in women. Healthy and satisfying sexual intercourse is an important factor in maintaining family health and preventing sexual disorders. In Iran, the prevalence of women sexual disorders was reported 31-72% in different age groups. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a post marriage marital skills educational program on sexual function of women referring to the marriage counseling center of Mehriz City in 2020.&#x0D; Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 72 women who had been married for 6 months to one year. The participants were divided into the control (n = 36) and intervention (n = 36) groups. The data were collected using female sexual function index (FSTI) questionnaire. The intervention group was educated in 4 sessions of 120 minutes. Data analysis was performed by SPSS version 22 using descriptive and analytical statistics.&#x0D; Results: The mean age of the subjects in the intervention group was 22.58±4.83 and in the control group was 21.83±4.01years. The results showed that after the educational intervention, the mean score of sexual function increased significantly from 22.9 to 27 in the intervention group (p &lt;0.05). There was also a significant increase in sexual desire, psychological stimulation, vaginal moisture, orgasm, satisfaction and a decrease in sexual pain (p &lt;0.05). In the control group, the mean score of sexual function did not change significantly.&#x0D; Conclusion: It seems that the designed intervention of marital skills education on women's sexual function had a significant effect on all dimensions of sexual function. It is recommended that educational-counseling interventions be performed after marriage in health centers.

Association between Psychopathological Dimensions and Sexual Functioning/Sexual Arousal in Young Adults.

Psychological-psychiatric factors have a different effect on sexual functioning in men and women. This research aimed to examine the association between psychopathological dimensions and dimensions of sexual functioning in Spanish young adults in two studies. Study 1 examined sexual functioning and psychopathological dimensions in 700 women and 516 men. Study 2 conducted an experimental laboratory task to evaluate subjective sexual arousal and genital sensations when watching visual sexual stimuli in a subsample of participants from Study 1 (143 women and 123 men). As a result, the first study showed that depression and anxiety-related symptoms had a negative effect, both in men and women, and having a partner had a positive influence on the dimensions of sexual functioning. The second study showed that anxiety symptoms were positively associated with subjective sexual arousal in both men and women, and anxiety was associated with the assessment of genital sensations in men. The differences between the results of anxiety may be explained because sexual arousal was evaluated in general terms in Study 1, whereas it was evaluated as a state in Study 2. These findings confirm that the presence of psychopathological symptoms contributes to sexual functioning, as well as the necessity of strengthening mental illness prevention programs that include sexual health components.

Effect of Guided psychosexual Instructions on Sexual Activity among Hypoactive Women’s Sexual Dysfunctions

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a serious health problem because of its high prevalence and deleterious effects on women's quality of life. Practitioners of women's health must care able to detect FSD in its early stage so that timely treatment could be offered. Also, the clinicians have lack understanding about the approach for identification and evaluation of the sexual problem. The study aimed to investigate the effect of guided psychosexual health instructions on changes in sexual activity among women with reduced sexual dysfunctions (hypoactive). Methods: A quasi- experimental design was used (pre and posttest one group) Setting: The study was conducted at Kebly and Bahary Maternal& Child Health Care Centers at Shibin Elkom Sample 100 participants of women were selected according to their responses in two-scale of sexual dysfunctions and elicited as hypoactive sexual dysfunctions from MCH Tools of the study: 1- Structured interview questionnaire classified into two parts, the first part deal with a biosocial data as age, level of education, and the employment status as well as complaining from physical or gynecological problems hindering them for conducting healthy marital relationship with their partner. The second part was: The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), A Multidimensional Self-Report Instrument for the Assessment of Female Sexual Function in a 19-item questionnaire, It was developed by Rosen, et al. (2010) as a brief instrument for assessing the key dimensions of sexual function in women. 2-Sexual Dysfunction Questionnaire It was developed by Infrasca et, al (2011) to assess women's readiness and preparation for sexual functions disorders Introduced as a brief self-report inventory. Results showed that there was a highly statistically significant difference P well as vaginal lubrication, orgasm, and degree of satisfaction during sexual activity. It was concluded that the use of guided psychosexual intervention was effective in managing sexual dysfunctions problems and enhancing satisfaction to reach orgasm. Recommendations. All health care providers should include screening questions regarding sexual well-being as a standard of practice. Treating medical, psychosexual, relationship problems, and addressing sociocultural issues, which can be effective in helping women and their partners dealing with hypoactive sexual desire disorder. Health care providers should involve the woman’s partner in the assessment and treatment of sexual health concerns when it is appropriate and safe to do so. Also, health guidelines protocol of care for (SD) should be providers to involve the woman’s partner in addressing sexual issues,

The Role of Cognitive Processing Factors in Sexual Function and Dysfunction in Women and Men: A Systematic Review.

Cognitive factors are conceptualized as playing a role in maintaining psychological disorders-including sexual dysfunction-by influencing the way in which individuals ascribe meaning, and ultimately respond, to sexual events. To systematically review and integrate the findings from studies on cognitive processing factors and sexual function and dysfunction in women and men. A systematic search of major electronic databases was conducted from inception to July 2019 to identify peer-reviewed studies examining cognitive processing factors associated with sexual function and dysfunction. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed. The main outcome measure was the association of cognitive processing variables with women's and men's sexual function and dysfunction. From 122 studies, 67 studies were deemed eligible for inclusion. Studies demonstrated a consistent association between cognitive processing factors and dimensions of sexual functioning in women and men. The main cognitive processing factors associated with sexual functioning include cognitive distraction and attentional focus, automatic thoughts and sexual cognitions, causal attributions to negative sexual events, efficacy expectations, and perceived performance demands. Specific associations between cognitive processing factors and particular male and female sexual dysfunctions were identified and discussed. Overall, research supports the critical role of cognitive processing factors in predicting women's and men's sexual (dys)function. Evidence suggests that these dimensions should be systematically addressed during the assessment of sexual dysfunction and one of the main treatment targets of psychological interventions. Tavares IM, Moura CV, Nobre PJ. The Role of Cognitive Processing Factors in Sexual Function and Dysfunction in Women and Men: A Systematic Review. Sex Med 2020;8:403-430.

Paroxetine, but not Vortioxetine, Impairs Sexual Functioning Compared With Placebo in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

IntroductionSexual dysfunction is prevalent among patients with depression, but assessment of treatment-emergent sexual dysfunction (TESD), a common side effect of antidepressants, can be confounded by the treatment of depressive symptoms in some patients. AimTo evaluate sexual functioning in healthy volunteers administered vortioxetine compared with paroxetine, an antidepressant known to cause sexual dysfunction, and placebo. MethodsThis phase 4, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, 4-arm, fixed-dose, head-to-head study compared sexual functioning in healthy volunteers administered vortioxetine (10 and 20 mg once daily [QD]), paroxetine (20 mg QD), or placebo for 5 weeks. Approximately equal numbers of men and women ages 18–40 years with normal sexual functioning (self-reported Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire Short-Form [CSFQ-14] score > 47 for men; > 41 for women) were enrolled. Two modified full analysis sets adjusting for treatment non-compliance were prespecified. Main Outcome MeasureThe primary endpoint was change in CSFQ-14 total score for vortioxetine (10 and 20 mg) vs paroxetine after 5 weeks. Additional endpoints included CSFQ-14 change scores vs placebo, CSFQ-14 subscales, and patient global impression. ResultsOf the 361 subjects enrolled (mean age, 28.4 years), approximately 57% were white, 34% black/African American, and 4% Asian. Vortioxetine 10 mg was associated with significantly less TESD than paroxetine (mean difference, +2.74 points; P = .009). Although vortioxetine 20 mg was associated with numerically less TESD than paroxetine (mean difference, +1.05 points), this difference did not reach statistical significance. Non-compliance appeared to influence results, particularly the paroxetine and vortioxetine 20 mg arms. Paroxetine, but not vortioxetine, was associated with statistically significantly more TESD vs placebo. Vortioxetine also had better outcomes than paroxetine in the 3 phases and 5 dimensions of sexual functioning measured by CSFQ-14. Clinical ImplicationsThese data establish that vortioxetine is associated with less TESD than paroxetine in healthy individuals, suggesting that vortioxetine may be a drug of choice in managing depressive disorders when sexual functioning is a concern. Strengths & LimitationsConducting the study in healthy adults mitigated the risk of an underlying condition (eg, depression) confounding the results. Assay sensitivity was demonstrated by statistically significant TESD with paroxetine vs placebo. The single comparator, paroxetine, and short study duration limit the generalizability of these results. ConclusionVortioxetine is associated with less TESD than paroxetine in healthy adults across all phases and dimensions of the sexual response cycle. Vortioxetine was not significantly different from placebo on sexual functioning; however, the difference was significant between paroxetine and placebo, validating study results.Jacobsen P, Zhong W, Nomikos G, et al. Paroxetine, but not Vortioxetine, Impairs Sexual Functioning Compared With Placebo in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. J Sex Med 2019; 16:1638–1649.

Interoceptive Awareness, Alexithymia, and Sexual Function

Research in women suggests a relation between sexual difficulties and lower interoceptive awareness, the conscious perception of internal bodily states. Lower interoceptive awareness is theoretically linked to greater alexithymia, which has been related to sexual dysfunctions. Hence, we examined the relations of interoceptive awareness and alexithymia with several dimensions of sexual functioning in a nonclinical sample of both sexes. Methods: Three hundred forty Portuguese (228 women, 112 men) completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20) and the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness (MAIA). Women additionally completed the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale–Revised (FSDS-R). Men additionally completed the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and one question on difficulties delaying ejaculation. Greater alexithymia correlated with lesser interoceptive awareness. For women, greater alexithymia and lesser interoceptive awareness correlated with lesser arousal, lesser lubrication, more orgasm difficulties, more dissatisfaction, more pain, and more sexual distress. Higher female desire correlated with greater interoceptive awareness, but was unrelated to alexithymia. In men, lesser interoceptive awareness correlated with more difficulties delaying ejaculation, and greater alexithymia correlated with more erectile difficulties. The present investigation corroborates that awareness of emotions and internal bodily states is important for sexual functioning.

Erectile Dysfunction Is Highly Prevalent in Men With Newly Diagnosed Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

Cross-sectional studies on sexual function in men with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) yield mixed results. Using a prospective incidence cohort, we aimed to describe sexual function at baseline and over time and to identify factors associated with impaired sexual function in men with IBD. Men 18 years and older enrolled between April 2008 and January 2013 in the Ocean State Crohn's and Colitis Area Registry (OSCCAR) with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up were eligible for study. Male sexual function was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), a self-administered questionnaire that assesses 5 dimensions of sexual function over the most recent 4 weeks. To assess changes in the IIEF per various demographic and clinical factors, linear mixed effects models were used. Sixty-nine of 82 eligible men (84%) completed the questionnaire (41 Crohn's disease, 28 ulcerative colitis). The mean age (SD) of the cohort at diagnosis was 43.4 (19.2) years. At baseline, 39% of men had global sexual dysfunction, and 94% had erectile dysfunction. Independent factors associated with erectile dysfunction are older age and lower physical and mental component summary scores on the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). In an incident cohort of IBD patients, most men had erectile dysfunction. Physicians should be aware of the high prevalence of erectile dysfunction and its associated risk factors among men with newly diagnosed IBD to direct multidisciplinary treatment planning.

Couples’ Sexual Communication and Dimensions of Sexual Function: A Meta-Analysis

Research and clinical data have shown that couples with sexual problems report a lack of sexual communication. However, no published meta-analyses have evaluated the relationship between sexual communication and sexual function. This meta-analysis examines the correlation between couples’ sexual communication and dimension of sexual function across 48 studies. Sexual communication was positively associated with sexual desire (r = .16), sexual arousal (r = .21), lubrication (r = .17), orgasm (r = .23), erectile function (r = .19), less pain (r = .12), and overall sexual function (r = .35). The effect sizes for sexual desire (r = .21; r = .12) and orgasm (r = .26; r = .16) were higher for women than for men. For overall sexual function, studies with married participants (r = .47) had a larger effect size than studies with participants with multiple relationship types (r = .31) or than studies with dating participants (r = .11). Effect sizes were larger for studies conducted outside of the United States (r = .39) compared to studies conducted in the United States (r = .12). We discuss the importance of addressing the relationship between sexual communication and sexual function, as well as future directions for research in this area.