Experience Of Orgasm Research Articles

Sexual intercourse before embryo transfer in assisted reproductive technology might enhance probability of pregnancy: An observational study.

Modifying the maternal immune system is necessary to facilitate embryo implantation. Modifying the immune system can occur in several ways, including maternal exposure to the partner's seminal plasma. Seminal plasma exposure can occur through sexual intercourse. To prove this theory, we investigate the effect of sexual intercourse on the chances of successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) in both fresh and frozen embryo transfer (ET) groups in terms of biochemical and clinical pregnancy. This is an observational analytical study with a retrospective cohort study design. This study compared biochemical and clinical pregnancy in patient groups who had sexual intercourse with those who did not have sexual intercourse during the IVF process. This study involved 132 participants. The results of this study reported that there was no significant difference in pregnancy rates between patients who had sex before ET and those who did not have sex before ET. However, patients who experience orgasm during sex show significant rates of biochemical (p = 0.009) and clinical pregnancy (p = 0.027) rates. Sexual intercourse did not show a significant difference between the groups who had sex before ET and those who did not have sex, but the experience of orgasm every time they had sex recently had a positive impact on reproductive health, especially pregnancy.

(072) ASSOCIATIONS BETWEEN MASTURBATORY ORGASM FUNCTION AND PARTNERED SEXUAL SATISFACTION IN CISGENDER WOMEN

Abstract Introduction Masturbation has been associated with a number of health and quality of life benefits, including improved self-esteem, sexual agency, and stress relief. While prior studies have asserted an association between solo masturbation and satisfaction with partnered sex, there is a paucity of literature that assesses specific parameters of masturbatory orgasm function and their potential association with sexual satisfaction. Objective This study aims to explore the association between satisfaction with partnered sex and six parameters of masturbatory orgasm function/satisfaction. Methods Respondents were recruited via Qualtrics and completed an anonymous, online questionnaire that assessed sexual satisfaction, based on the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NSSS)–a validated, 20-item survey. NSSS scores were calculated by summing the possible 5-point Likert scale ratings across all 20 questions, with a higher NSSS score indicating greater satisfaction with partnered sex. Respondents also completed questions that queried frequency of masturbation and partnered-sexual activity, as well as six parameters of orgasm function measured under the condition of solo-masturbation: lead time to orgasm, duration of orgasm, refractory period between orgasms, location of orgasm experience, experience of orgasm, and satisfaction with orgasm. Statistical analyses were completed using Qualtrics Stats iQ software to assess for an association between NSSS score and the aforementioned variables. Results A sample of n=178 sexually active cisgender women (mean age = 43.6±14.9 years) completed the study survey. Cisgender women who reported higher NSSS scores were significantly more likely to endorse engaging in partnered sexual activities on a more frequent basis (p<0.05), but there was no statistically significant relationship between NSSS score and frequency of solo-masturbation (p=0.2). A statistically significant relationship existed between NSSS score and 2/6 of the masturbatory orgasm parameters assessed (Figure 1). Cisgender women with higher partnered sexual satisfaction scores reported significantly longer duration of masturbatory orgasm and higher satisfaction with orgasm during masturbation (both p<0.01). There were otherwise no significant associations between NSSS score and lead-time to orgasm, refractory period between orgasms, experience of orgasm as single vs. multiple peaks, or bodily location of orgasm experience under the condition of masturbation. Conclusions Cisgender women who reported more frequent partnered sexual activity, as well as a longer duration of masturbatory orgasm time and higher satisfaction with orgasm from masturbation, reported significantly greater partnered sexual satisfaction. This association between satisfaction with solo masturbation and satisfaction with partnered sexual activity supports leading theories of masturbation improving body knowledge, self-confidence, and sexual agency. Findings also highlight how variability in orgasm function does not always result in differences in sexual satisfaction, which is more so associated with self-perceived orgasm satisfaction. Disclosure No.

(036) BASELINE CHARACTERISTICS OF PATIENTS UNDERGOING GENDER AFFIRMING HYSTERECTOMIES

Abstract Introduction Gender affirming hysterectomies (GAH) are one of the many interventions offered to people with uteruses who are seeking gender affirming care. Gender affirming care, especially hormones, has been shown to improve sexual satisfaction outcomes, but no research currently exists on sexual function or orgasm experience after gender affirming hysterectomy in particular. Post-hysterectomy sexual function has only been examined in cisgender populations, and has found mixed results on sexual health, wellness, and function. Research on sexual function and orgasm experience after GAH is needed to inform evidence-based recommendations and advance our understanding of sexual pleasure in a population that has historically been under-researched. Objective To achieve a better understanding of how gender affirming hysterectomies impact the experience of sex through a standardized analysis of orgasms and sexual function. Methods This project is a prospective study of patients receiving gender affirming hysterectomies at a single tertiary care center (November 2023-ongoing). Baseline characteristics (pre-hysterectomy) have been collected and analyzed via surveys asking about demographics, sexual practices, medical history, orgasm satisfaction (Orgasm Rating Scale) and sexual function (Transmasculine Sexual Functioning Index). Results We currently have 5 patients enrolled and anticipate a sample size of 30 participants by mid-February 2024. We plan to present pre-hysterectomy data describing participants’ overall sexual function and satisfaction. We anticipate a diversity of sexual practices and wellbeing. Conclusions There is a dearth in the current literature describing sexual function of individuals pursuing GAH. Further characterizing this population's pre-operative sexual practices and satisfaction will improve our ability to counsel patients considering GAH. Comparing this baseline data to sexual function post-GAH will provide insight into how GAH impacts ability to perform sexually and its influence on overall sexual satisfaction. This data will allow us to provide evidence-based recommendations regarding the impact of hysterectomy on orgasm and sexual function in patients seeking GAH. Disclosure No.

(063) ORGASM FUNCTION AND SEXUAL SATISFACTION: A COMPARISON BETWEEN PRE- VERSUS POSTMENOPAUSAL CISGENDER WOMEN

Abstract Introduction Despite the prevalence, relevance, and impact of menopause on people with ovaries, there is a paucity of research on its impact on sexual function and satisfaction. While an association between menopause and sexual dysfunction has been found, no studies assessed objective parameters of orgasm function and many utilized sexual satisfaction surveys that did not include participants’ perceptions of their sexual partner(s). Objective This study aimed to assess differences between pre- versus postmenopausal cisgender women using a six-parameter inventory of orgasm function and a validated sexual satisfaction psychometric scale, using both ego-centered and partner-centered measures. Methods Respondents were recruited and administered an anonymous, online questionnaire via Qualtrics as part of a larger study on sexual function and erogenous sensation. The questionnaire queried demographic information, menopause status, and six parameters of orgasm function under the controlled scenario of solo masturbation. Satisfaction with sexual activity with a partner was measured by the validated New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NSSS), a 20-item psychometric survey that measures sexual satisfaction in the past six months across two subscales: the ego-centered and partner-/activity-centered subscale. The 5-point Likert scales for all 20 questions were summated, for a total possible score of 20 (minimum sexual satisfaction) to 100 (maximum sexual satisfaction). Statistical analyses were completed using Qualtrics Stats iQ, utilizing ANOVA and chi-square tests. Results A total of 283 cisgender women completed the study questionnaire. Premenopausal women were significantly more likely to report a higher average frequency of engaging in sexual activities with a partner and solo masturbation (Table 1). Of the six orgasm parameters (Table 2), the only statistically significant difference existed in the experience of orgasm as peaks, with more postmenopausal women reporting a multi-peaked orgasm versus a single-peak orgasm. The average NSSS score amongst all cisgender women in our sample was 68±20, and there was no statistically significant difference (p<0.8) between pre- versus postmenopausal cisgender women. Of the 20 questions within the NSSS, there was no statistically significant difference in 10/10 and 9/10 of the partner-centered NSSS subscale questions between the two groups. The only statistically significant difference between groups was premenopausal women reported higher satisfaction with the partner-centered measure of “The way I sexually react to my partner” (p<0.05). Conclusions Contrary to the medical literature, we found no significant difference in total sexual satisfaction between pre- versus postmenopausal cisgender women, as measured by the validated NSSS. Moreover, there was no significant difference in 5/6 of the orgasm parameter measurements. While sexual satisfaction is intrinsically linked to sexual function, it is important to note that self-perception of partner and activities may also play an important role in shaping an individual’s pleasure during sex. These findings highlight the importance of considering these nuances when assessing sexual satisfaction and may help to better inform the sexual function/satisfaction expectations of cisgender women as they approach menopause. Disclosure No.

(033) ABSENCE OF GENDER-AFFIRMING HYSTERECTOMIES FROM HYSTERECTOMY SEXUAL FUNCTION OUTCOMES LITERATURE

Abstract Introduction Gender affirming healthcare is a multidisciplinary field that includes (but is not limited to) the following interventions: hormonal therapy and gender affirming surgery (chest surgery, hysterectomy, oophorectomy, metoidioplasty, phalloplasty, etc.). Gender-affirming hormone therapy has been shown to positively impact orgasm duration and satisfaction level among both transgender men and women. Research on sexual wellbeing after gender affirming surgery (GAS) indicates positive effects on sexual health outcomes; however, the literature lacks sufficient studies to make evidence-based recommendations. Objective To synthesize and review the current state of literature on sexual outcomes following gender affirming hysterectomies as background to inform a planned study on this topic. Methods This project is a literature review of peer-reviewed journal articles on sexual function and pleasure outcomes following hysterectomies, with a particular focus on gender affirming hysterectomies. We considered various cohort studies, systematic reviews, position statements, and meta-analyses in our review. Results No research currently exists on sexual function or orgasm experience after gender affirming hysterectomy. Current literature exploring sexual function post-hysterectomy only includes cisgender populations (indications typically include cancer risk reduction, pelvic pain, and/or abnormal uterine bleeding). Studies have found mixed results regarding sexual function in cisgender women post-hysterectomy and/or oophorectomy, including changes to anxiety and depression, sexual health and wellness, both in a positive and negative direction. Other analyses found no significant change in sexual function post-hysterectomy in cisgender women. Based on these findings, hysterectomies have mixed effects on sexual satisfaction & function in cisgender populations but there is no data to guide transgender populations. Conclusions More research is needed on sexual health outcomes (i.e., sexual pleasure, arousal, and orgasm) after gender affirming surgery, as very few studies examine the role of sexual function, including desire, arousal, pain and orgasm in patients’ lives post-GAS. No studies investigate sexual satisfaction post-gender affirming hysterectomy despite it being an important GAS for transgender men. Research on this procedure in this specific population will inform evidence-based practices and recommendations, elucidate sex outcomes when the main indication for a hysterectomy is gender affirmation, and advance our understanding of sexual pleasure overall. This author team is initiating a study to address this critical question. Disclosure No.

Validation of the multidimensional model of the subjective orgasm experience in the context of same-sex relationships

Background/objectiveThe Multidimensional Model of the Subjective Orgasm Experience (MMSOE) has been validated in the context of heterosexual relationships, with no evidence in the context of same-sex relationships. This study aims to examine the association of its dimensions (Affective, Intimacy, Sensory, and Rewards) with the propensity for sexual excitation, rating of sexual arousal, rating of genital sensations, and genital response. MethodSixty-eight young adults (34 males and 34 females) who were sexually active with people of the same sex participated in a laboratory task in which they viewed content-neutral and sexually explicit gay films. Regression models were conducted to explain the dimensions of MMSOE from measures of sexual arousal. ResultsIn males, the rating of sexual arousal explained the Sensory dimension, while the genital response explained the Affective dimension, with sexual arousal as a state gaining more prominence. In females, however, the propensity for sexual excitation explained the Sensory dimension, with more salience of sexual arousal as a trait. ConclusionsThe MMSOE is shown to be a valid theoretical framework for the study of orgasmic experience in the context of same-sex relationships, with clear implications for clinical practice.

Subjective orgasm experience in different-sex and same-sex couples: A dyadic approach

The subjective orgasm experience (SOE) refers to the perception, sensation and/or evaluation of orgasm from a psychological point of view, representing an important construct of sexual functioning rarely studied under a dyadic approach. This study analyzed SOE in the contexts of sexual relationships and solitary masturbation in 179 different-sex and same-sex couples. The results indicated the absence of differences in intradyadic discrepancies in SOE dimensions in both sexual contexts, varying according to the type of couple. Besides, the study also highlights the influence of some of these discrepancies of SOE in solitary masturbation on SOE discrepancies in sexual relationships among the members of male-female and female-female couples. Furthermore, the study revealed that the intensity of partners' orgasm experience during solitary masturbation influences the intensity of SOE during sexual relationships, with variations observed based on the type of couple. These findings highlight the importance of considering SOE from a dyadic approach, with the association of orgasmic experience in both sexual contexts gaining relevance, differing according to the couple type. The results also point to the clinical implications of the dyadic effects of such an individual practice as solitary masturbation on shared sexual experiences.

(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.

(010) Assessment of Cannabis Use Before Partnered Sex on Women who Experience Orgasm Difficulty

Abstract Introduction Up to 41% of women experience female orgasm disorder/difficulty (FOD), a statistic unchanged for 50 years. Despite this, there is a paucity of validated treatments. Research has suggested cannabis as a treatment for female sexual disorders for more than 50 years. Yet a literature review revealed no studies evaluating cannabis as a treatment specifically for FOD and no studies comparing women with and without FOD. This study is the first to evaluate cannabis as a treatment for FOD specifically in women with and without FOD. Objective Evaluate the effect of cannabis use before partnered sex on women with and without FOD. Methods This IRB-approved observational study conducted between March 24, 2022, and November 18, 2022, evaluated baseline demographics, sexual behavior, mental health, cannabis use, and the orgasm subscale questions of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), evaluating orgasm frequency, orgasm satisfaction, and orgasm ease, with and without cannabis before partnered sex. Results Of 1,037 survey responses, the researchers received 410 valid, completed surveys; failure to meet the study’s criteria required excluding 23 (5.6%) surveys. Among the 387 valid survey participants, the majority of women, 52% (n = 202) reported orgasm difficulty, were between the ages of 25–34 (45%, n = 91), reported their race as white (75%, n = 152), and were married or in a relationship (82%, n = 165). Among respondents reporting orgasm difficulty (n = 202), cannabis use before partnered sex increased orgasm frequency (72.8%, n = 147/202, p < .001), improved orgasm satisfaction (67%, n = 136/202, p < .001) or made orgasm easier (71%, n = 143/202, p < .001). Frequency of cannabis use before partnered sex correlated with increased orgasm frequency for women with FOD (n = 202, p< .001). Orgasm response to cannabis depended on the reasons for use (n = 202, p = .022). Women with FOD reported 24% more mental health issues, 52.6% more PTSD, 29% more depressive disorders, 13% more anxiety disorders, and 22% more prescription drug use than women without FOD. Women with FOD were more likely to report sexual abuse history than women without FOD (38.6%, n=74/202). Conclusions Fifty years of sexuality research support use of cannabis for sexual difficulties. This is the first study to look at FOD specifically, demonstrating significant benefit. Randomized controlled studies are needed to evaluate cannabis’ efficacy on FOD sub-types, mental health and physical health conditions and other clinical implications; evaluating dosage, strain, timing, and method of intake. References Laumann et al., 2005 Kontula & Miettinen, 2016 Keiman & Meston, 1997 Dawley et al., 1979 Gorzalka et al., 2010 Klein et al., 2012 Lewis, 1970 Moser et al., 2023. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: inhaleMD.

The Empire of Affectivity: Qualitative Evidence of the Subjective Orgasm Experience.

The subjective orgasm experience (SOE) refers to its perception and/or assessment from a psychological viewpoint. Few works have approached this construct from a qualitative perspective and have never taken a consolidated theoretical model as a reference. This study aims to provide qualitative validity evidence to the Multidimensional Model of Subjective Orgasmic Experience, derived from the Orgasm Rating Scale (ORS), to qualitatively address SOE in the contexts of sexual relationships and solitary masturbation, analyzing the terms self-generated by individuals and examining the coincidence with the semantic descriptions of orgasm proposed by the ORS. Four hundred Spanish adults aged 18 to 64 years participated. The Technique of Free Association of Words was applied, and prototypical, frequency, and similitude analyses were performed. A similar description was observed concerning the terms generated in both contexts, with a higher frequency and intensity in the context of sexual relationships. In the context of solitary masturbation, negative orgasmic descriptions were evoked. Participants were able to elicit the vast majority of ORS adjectives, with Affective being the most notable dimension, followed closely by Rewards, especially in masturbation. Most of the adjectives were evoked simultaneously with those of the Affective, with "pleasurable" standing out as the most predominant one. This work provides qualitative evidence to the SOE study, ratifying the semantic composition of the ORS and thus endorsing the Multidimensional Model of Subjective Orgasmic Experience as a good theoretical model from which to continue studying the subjective orgasmic experience.

Female orgasm, reproduction and couple relationships.

A deficit or problematic achievement of female orgasm is often classified as a sexual disorder that creates complications in the sex life of couples. This assumption is generally accepted, even though vaginal anorgasmia is an accepted statistical norm and non-coital methods of generating female orgasm are not as easy as they are for men. Female orgasms manifest themselves in different ways; they are variable and can be dependent on a number of variable factors. Some theories suggest a high degree of correlation between the capacity for orgasmic experience, sexual attitudes and behaviour, but also with reproductive potential or the stability of the given couple's relationship. Female orgasm is often seen as a discriminatory mechanism influencing attitudes towards sexuality or even as a kind of fertility catalyst. There is no consensus on the importance of female orgasm. The results of some relevant studies refute theories about the female orgasm's positive influence on adaptive functions of the couple's relationship, as well as its influence on fertility. The orgasm in women is most likely an evolutionary by-product of its male variant, since the clitoris and penis have an identical embryonic basis of development. Female anorgasmia should not be considered an unquestioned diagnosis, let alone a psychiatric construct leading to a paradigm in which anorgasmia is categorically the cause of frustration or other problems.

(009) Sexual Function & Sexual Satisfaction Differences Between Cisgender Women of Different Age Groups

Abstract Introduction As the average life expectancy increases, so does the need to improve older adults’ quality of life. Sexual function and satisfaction have been intimately tied to well-being, and older age has been associated with a decline in sexual activity, sexual function, and desire. However, there is limited research that focuses on the association between age and specific measurements of sexual function, such as orgasm parameters, frequency of sexual activity, and sexual satisfaction. Objective To describe and compare measures of sexual activity, orgasm quality, and satisfaction between women of different ages. Methods Respondents were recruited via Qualtrics and administered an anonymous online survey. Respondents were separated into groups based on age ranges: younger adults (<40 years old), middle-aged adults (40 to 59 years old), and older adults (≥60 years old). Additional demographic characteristics and sexuality measures were documented, including sexual orientation, partnership status at the time of survey, ability to orgasm, frequency of masturbation and sexual activity, and sexual satisfaction (as measured by the validated New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NSSS)). An orgasm quality inventory queried the following six variables, under the control condition of masturbation: (1) time to orgasm; (2) duration of orgasm; (3) refractory period between orgasms; (4) experience of orgasm as a single or multi-peak event; (5) bodily location of orgasm experience; and (6) satisfaction with orgasm quality. Results A total of 423 sexually active cisgender women (average age ± standard deviation: 48.9 ± 15.6 years old) completed our survey. Older women were significantly more likely to identify as heterosexual and deny dating or being in a current relationship (both p<0.001). Additionally, older women were significantly more likely to deny masturbation and sexual activity with a partner (p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in ability to achieve orgasm between age groups (p=0.5). With respect to orgasm parameters (Table 1), younger women reported a significantly lower refractory period between orgasms, as compared to middle-aged and older women. Compared to other age groups, significantly more older women reported their orgasm as a multi-peak event (p<0.04) and were more likely to report the location of orgasm sensation as occurring in their genitals, as opposed to extragenital areas (e.g., arms, thighs, face, back) or whole body (p<0.01). There were no statistically significant differences between age and lead time to orgasm, duration of orgasm, or satisfaction with orgasm. Differences in sexual satisfaction (as measured by the NSSS, with higher scores indicating greater sexual satisfaction) were found to be statistically insignificant as well. Conclusions While older women reported a significant decrease in frequency of masturbation and sexual activity, they only differed in three out of six measures in our orgasm inventory. While these measures indicate a difference in older women’s experience of orgasm, it is important to note that there were no significant differences across multiple measures of sexual satisfaction between women of different ages. Disclosure No.

Sacral Neuromodulation in Male Sexual Dysfunction – A Systematic Review

Introduction: Contemporary patient care requires full consideration of sexual health as well. Sexual dysfunction has a high prevalence and significantly affects quality of life. The cost to the health care system is estimated to be high but has not yet been calculated with certainty. Therapy considers sexual appetence, sexual arousal, orgasmic experience in both genders, lubrication in women and erection in men. Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) has been used primarily for neurogenic bladder dysfunction, idiopathic pelvic pain, nonobstructive urinary retention, and fecal incontinence. Effects have also been observed on various components of sexual function. Sexual function as a primary outcome parameter of SNS has not been studied to date. Methods: For a systematic literature search, the Healthcare Databases Advanced Search (HDAS) platform was used, employing the Medline, EMBASE, and CINHAL search engines, and considering only publications from international peer-reviewed journals. Results: We identified 16 studies with inclusion of a total of 662 women and 40 men in which potential effects of SNS on sexual function were noted when used in other indications. For the female sex, there was evidence for significant improvements in sexual function. The very weak data situation for the male sex so far only allows to assume similar effects. In any case, it remains unclear whether these effects are primary or secondary to SNS. Discussion: SNS affects urinary bladder emptying, urinary bladder continence, pelvic pain, and fecal continence and defecation. The direct anatomical and physiological relationship between these organ systems and sexual function raises the question of whether there is a primary effect of SNS on sexual function. High-quality studies with sexual function as the primary endpoint should verify this.

And how do LGB adults rate their orgasms in a relational context?

Subjective orgasm experience (SOE) refers to the perception, assessment, and/or sensation of orgasm on a psychological level, with the particularity that the study of SOE in nonheterosexual populations is currently very scarce. The study sought to analyze differences in SOE dimensions, comparing the intensity of each adjective of the Orgasm Rating Scale (ORS) and creating a ranking of the adjectives that better represent it in LGB men and women. In a sample of 1475 adults organized into 4 groups according to the type of sexual relationships reported, comparisons were made using multivariate analysis of variance and chi-square tests. Differences were obtained in the intensity of all the SOE dimensions, and in 23 of the 25 ORS adjectives. Lesbians and bisexual women reported higher intensity in SOE compared with bisexual and gay men. Because the ORS has been established as a good tool for detecting orgasmic difficulties in nonheterosexual populations, this study could provide LGBT affirmative psychotherapy with evidence on how these individuals evaluate their orgasms in a relational context. This study extends prior limited knowledge about how LGB people evaluate their orgasmic experiences in the context of sexual relationships. Despite this, the study poses limitations such as nonprobability sampling or the inclusion of exclusively cisgender and young individuals, making it difficult to generalize the results. Although significant differences were found between LGB men and women, all groups agree on the adjectives they use to describe the subjective experience of orgasm in the context of sexual relationships; therefore, evidence is provided about how LGB people evaluate their orgasmic experiences in this context.

Validación del Modelo Multidimensional de la Experiencia Subjetiva del Orgasmo en el Contexto de la Masturbación

Validación del Modelo Multidimensional de la Experiencia Subjetiva del Orgasmo en el Contexto de la Masturbación

Effects of Subjective Orgasm Experience in Sexual Satisfaction: A Dyadic Analysis in Same-Sex Hispanic Couples

Subjective orgasm experience (SOE) is a component of sexual health that refers to the perception, sensation and/or appraisal of orgasm at a psychological level. This construct has scarcely been studied in non-heterosexual individuals and couples, and never before from a dyadic perspective. In this study, in which 104 same-sex Hispanic couples participated (48 male-male and 56 female-female), we explored the dyadic influence of SOE dimensions on sexual satisfaction, the mediating role of relationship satisfaction on the association of both phases of sexual response, as well as the explanatory capacity that discrepancies in these dimensions had on sexual satisfaction. The results indicated that the orgasmic dimensions that gained more prominence were Affective and Sensory. A dyadic influence of both on sexual satisfaction was observed only in male couples, as well as a detriment of sexual satisfaction when there were discrepancies in them, especially in women. Moreover, relationship satisfaction was a significant mediator between all dimensions of SOE and sexual satisfaction in both types of couples. This work highlights the need to take into account the SOE of both partners and how this individual experience can affect other dimensions of a more interpersonal nature, such as sexual or relationship satisfaction.

Development of the Italian version of the Orgasmic Perception Questionnaire (OPQ).

Orgasm is a phase of the human sexual response, and the possible discrepancies between male and female ways to experience it are still not clear in the literature. There is a lack of tools to adequately assess orgasm perception. This study aims to develop an instrument and verify possible differences between males and females. We constructed the Orgasmic Perception Questionnaire (OPQ) through different stages: first, 316 items selection was conducted on a sample of 96 people, where items came mainly from written descriptions of orgasm perception; second, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted on 674 Italian adults with a 63-item OPQ; finally, a confirmatory factor analysis was conducted on 1100 Italian adults with a 47-item OPQ. In the first study, 63 items fitted an equidistributional pattern and were to form the 63-item OPQ used for EFA. The EFA showed that five factors out of 47 explained 44.01% of the total variance and were named: Ecstasy, Contractions, Relaxation, Power, and Sensations. The confirmatory factor analyses run on the 47-item OPQ confirmed that the five-factor structure fits. Moreover, females scored higher than males with an adequate effect size in two factors: Contractions and Sensations. In conclusion, the OPQ could be a useful tool in both clinical settings and research studies to investigate the perception of orgasmic experience in its totality.

Looking Beyond the Chair: Psycho-Perceptual Predictors of Sexual Distress and Sexual Satisfaction in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury

ABSTRACT Despite a large body of biomedical research, little is known about the psychological and perceptual predictors of sexual satisfaction (SS) and sexual distress (SD) post spinal cord injury (SCI). Guided by a bio-psycho-perceptual framework, this cross-sectional research aimed at assessing SS and SD in a large SCI sample using validated patient-reported outcome measures (PROM). Significant correlates and predictors of SS and SD were also identified. Ninety-one men and women with SCI completed PROMs of SS and SD, as well as psychological (mood, sexual and body esteem) and perceptual (interoceptive awareness, trait mindfulness, sexual mindfulness) factors. Neurological profiles were also assessed, along with experience of orgasm. Correlates of SS and SD were first identified using Pearson’s correlations, then multiple hierarchical regression models were computed to isolate predictors. Orgasm experience and psychological factors emerged as moderate correlates of both SS and SD, while neurological factors did not. Interoceptive awareness and trait mindfulness showed weak associations with SD and none with SS. Among the tested predictors, experience of orgasm emerged as the strongest for SS (β = -.29, p < .01), followed by mood, which predicted SS and SD. Sexual and body esteem was predictive of SD only. In sexually active participants, sexual mindfulness predicted both SS (β = 0.55, p < .001) and SD (β = -0.56, p < .001) above and beyond all other variables. This study reveals unique aspects of SS and SD postinjury and supports further consideration of psychological and perceptual dimensions of SCI sexuality in rehabilitation research.

Faking Orgasm: Interviews with College Women about How, When, and Why They Pretend to Experience Orgasm

Faking Orgasm: Interviews with College Women about How, When, and Why They Pretend to Experience Orgasm

(052) The Relationship between Sexual Empowerment and Women's Sexual Pleasure

Abstract Introduction It is debated whether feelings of sexual empowerment are intrinsically derived or whether they are a guise for the positive feelings associated with conforming well to society’s standards. The nexus of sexual empowerment and sexual performance can be examined through the experience of sexual pleasure. The link between sexual empowerment and sexual performance and sexual pleasure has not been explored in depth. Objective This study aims to identify the association between sexual pleasure and sexual performance, sexual pleasure and sexual empowerment, and sexual empowerment and sexual performance. The association between sexual empowerment levels and experiences of sexual pleasure with partners among women is investigated. Methods Using a purposive convenience sample, data from 1,183 millennials (642 women) from The Pleasure Study (2021-2021) were used, which examined gender and sexual experiences among six gender identity groups. Data on the frequency of orgasm experience, the frequency of orgasm performance, the frequency of sexual pleasure performance, and sexual empowerment were analyzed for this study. Results Analyses determined a significant indirect effect of communication about sexual initiation and satisfaction on frequency of experiencing orgasms with partners through frequency of sexual pleasure performance, b = -0.049, 95% CI [-0.099, -0.021]. There was also a significant indirect effect of unwanted sex refusal on frequency of experiencing orgasms with partners through frequency of orgasm performance, b = -0.037, 95% CI [-0.085, -0.022]. Furthermore, there was a significant indirect effect of unwanted sex refusal on frequency of experiencing orgasms with partners through frequency of sexual pleasure performance, b = -0.053, 95% CI [-0.087, -0.022]. Conclusions This study demonstrates that sexually empowered women perform sexual pleasure less, and this decreased performance of sexual pleasure mediated the association between their sexual empowerment levels and their more frequent orgasm experiences. Higher levels of sexual communication and the ability to refuse unwanted sexual relations predicted performing sexual pleasure less, and decreased performance of sexual pleasure in turn predicted more frequent orgasm experiences. Interestingly, sexual history communication was not associated with decreased performance of sexual pleasure nor more frequent orgasm experiences. Thus, the results suggest that women increase their sexual pleasure with partners when focusing on communicating about their sexual needs and preferences. Disclosure No