Sexual Frequency Research Articles

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Sexually Transmitted Diseases Among Women of Reproductive Age Group at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda

Sexually transmitted diseases are a significant public health concern in Uganda, particularly among women of reproductive age. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with STDs among women of reproductive age at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 302 women of reproductive age attending the hospital’s outpatient department between August 2023 and November 2023. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the prevalence and factors associated with STDs. The prevalence of STDs among women of reproductive age attending Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital was found to be 27.2%. Factors significantly associated with STDs included being residence outside the city (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21-4.38), age group 20-29 (aOR 2.42, 95% CI 1.05-5.57), having more than 3 sexual partners (aOR 2.13, 95% CI 1.19-3.80) and not using a condom during sexual intercourse (aOR 0.55, 95% CI 0.31-0.98). Additionally, women who reported an increased frequency of sexual activity were more likely to have current STDs (aOR 1.88, 95% CI 1.10-3.21). The prevalence of STDs among women of reproductive age at Fort Portal Regional Referral Hospital was high, and several factors were identified as significant predictors of STDs. These findings highlight the need for targeted STD prevention and control interventions, including increased STD screening, counselling on condom use, and promoting safe sexual practices among women of reproductive age in the region. Keyword: STDs, Productive age, Women, Condom, Sexual activities, Sexual partners.

Effects of vaginal dilation therapy on vaginal length, vaginal stenosis, vaginal elasticity and sexual function of cervical cancer survivors

Background Cervical cancer survivors can experience vaginal length shortening, vaginal stenosis, vaginal elasticity deterioration, sexual frequency reduction and sexual dysfunction. This prospective, uncontrolled, monocentric clinical interventional study aimed to evaluate the effect of vaginal dilation therapy on vaginal condition and sexual function of cervical cancer survivors who had not received timely vaginal dilation. Methods A total of 139 patients completed the study. They received 6 months of vaginal dilation therapy. We evaluated their vaginal elasticity, vaginal diameter, vaginal length and sexual function before and after vaginal dilation therapy. Their vaginal conditions were evaluated by customised vaginal moulds, and the sexual function was assessed by female sexual function index. The SPSS 25 software was used to analyse all the data. Results Age, vaginal diameter and sexual intercourse frequency before diagnosis were significantly associated with female sexual dysfunction of the patients after cancer treatment. Vaginal dilation therapy improved vaginal stenosis, vaginal length and sexual function in all the patients; however, the vaginal elasticity and incidence of sexual dysfunction did not improve significantly. Sexual intercourse frequency before diagnosis, vaginal elasticity, time interval from last treatment and treatment modalities were significantly associated with the change in female sexual function index score before and after vaginal dilation therapy. Patients with a time interval from the last treatment less than 24 months or those who had moderate or good vaginal elasticity, benefitted more from vaginal dilatation therapy. Conclusions Cervical cancer survivors who had not received timely vaginal dilation still benefitted from vaginal dilation therapy, irrespective of the treatment methods they received. Moreover, vaginal dilation therapy should be performed as early as possible after cervical cancer treatment.

(046) Pattern of Sexual Activities among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic

Abstract Introduction Sexuality is rarely discussed in many cultures even in clinical context. Sexual repression and abstinence are not uncommon among pregnant women due to several factors; some of which may be related to ignorance. The pattern of sexual activity in pregnancy with its associated changes and challenges remain poorly understood due to a complex interplay of bio-psycho-social factor. Objective This study demonstrates the pattern of sexual activities among pregnant women with associated changes resulting from pregnancy as well as perception and experiences of these women about sexual activities and function in pregnancy. Methods Pre-tested self-administered questionnaires were used to obtain data from women in second and third trimesters of uncomplicated pregnancies about their sexual activities before and during pregnancy as well as their perception about sexual activities in pregnancy. Results The study recruited 228 pregnant women aged 19 to 44years (Mean - 31.7years) with an average gestational age of 27.8weeks and most (93.8%) were singleton. Most of the respondents were married (97.4%) with tertiary level of education (87.9%). Majority (60.1%) were multiparous and most (96.5%) have commenced antenatal care. Majority (58.8%) reported only one lifetime sexual partner with mean age at coitarche of 23.6years. Only 1.3% have multiple sexual partners during the index pregnancy. Most (74.8%) had sexual activities at least once weekly prior pregnancy. During pregnancy however, only 48% had sexual activities at least once weekly, 25.3% had sexual activity less than once monthly, 5.8% had no sexual activity at all in pregnancy. Frequency of sexual activity in pregnancy was moderately associated with frequency before pregnancy (Pearson–0.428, p-0.000). Regarding changes in sexual activity and function associated with pregnancy; 53.5% reported a negative effect, 28.6% had improvement and 18% reported no change in frequency of sexual activities. Regarding sexual desire, 46.1% had reduction, 31.6% reported improvement and 22.3% reported no effect on their desire. For lubrication however, 39.5% had improvement, 31.2% reported reduction whereas 29.3% reported no change. Their overall satisfaction with their sexual function was reported as better in pregnancy m 43.7%, no change in 20.2% and reduction in 36.1%. Although 77.5% of respondents agreed that regular sexual activities can improve bonding with their partners, 64.3% of respondents were afraid of risk of injury to the baby, 58.8% were afraid of risk of infection, and 51.2% were afraid of bleeding in pregnancy and these fears were reported as reasons for their decision regarding sexual activities in pregnancy. Conclusions Marked reduction in frequency of sexual activities were reported in pregnancy; women who had infrequent intercourse prior pregnancy were more likely to have infrequent intercourse in pregnancy. Fear of injury to the baby, bleeding and infection were among the topmost reasons sexual activities were avoided in pregnancy. Education of pregnant women may reduce unnecessary abstinence and sexual repression in pregnancy and avoid its psychosocial consequences on these women and their partners. Disclosure No.

(290) Exploring the Link Between Conformity to Masculine Ideologies and Responses to Sexual Rejection in Cisgender Men and Cisgender Women

Abstract Introduction Sexual rejection occurs when a person’s sexual advances are terminated by a potential sexual partner, leading to responses that may disregard the partner’s choice, such as attempts to entice or express resentment. Traditional masculine ideologies (TMIs) could play a role in motivating enticing or resentful responses. TMIs often emphasize superiority, encompassing power, control, dominance, and frequent sexual activity. When individuals adhering to TMIs face sexual rejection, they may experience feelings of inferiority and respond with enticing or resentful behaviors to reassert superiority. Objective Explore links between TMIs and the use of enticing and resentful responses following experiences of sexual rejection. Methods A German-speaking sample of 351 cisgender men and 345 cisgender women (age: M = 28.11, SD = 8.05) were randomly assigned to read one of two hypothetical stories in which participants should imagine being sexually rejected by their partner (rejection condition), or engaging in sexual activity with their partner (no-rejection condition). Afterward, participants had to report how they would react to sexual rejection. TMI was assessed with the Conformity to Masculine Norms Inventory. Results Compared to cisgender women, cisgender men more often would react with enticing tactics (β = .77, p < .001). Compared to participants who were rejected, participants who were not rejected more often would react with enticing tactics (β = .43, p < .001). Participants with higher levels of TMIs (being a playboy, dominating women, holding heterosexual self-presentation) more often would react with enticing tactics (β = .18, p < .001; β = .15, p < .001; β = .11, p < .001, respectively). Compared to men with higher levels of TMI (heterosexual self-presentation), women with higher levels of TMI (heterosexual self-presentation) more often would react with resentful responses (β = .68, p < .001). This effect was reinforced through sexual rejection, as opposed to no sexual rejection (β = -.63, p < .001). Conclusions When sexual rejection hasn’t occurred men are more inclined to enticing behaviors. This tendency may stem from potential misunderstandings about desires and consent after initial sexual intercourse. Conversely, when sexual rejection does occur, resentful responses are more common among women adhering to a heterosexual self-presentation. Heterosexual self-presentation might align with adherence to traditional sexual scripts in which men are not expected to decline the sexual advances of a desiring woman. Consequently, rejection may be perceived as a direct challenge to their identity as a woman, triggering feelings of resentment. Therapists can apply these findings to better assist individuals or couples in their sexual relationships. By examining how adherence to traditional gender norms and scripts influences reactions to sexual rejection, therapists can help clients recognize these influences and promote respectful responses that honor all partners’ desires and boundaries. Disclosure No.

Body image satisfaction and body-related partner commentary link to marital quality through sexual frequency and satisfaction: A path model.

Body image satisfaction and body-related partner commentary link to marital quality through sexual frequency and satisfaction: A path model.

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.

Sexual Activity of Older Adults: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Objective: The goal was to conduct a literature review of studies that examined sexual activity in older adults. Method: A systematic search was conducted to identify studies that had examined sexual activity in adults aged 60 years and older. The main characteristics of each study and results were examined and reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Results: Sixty-three articles were found. These articles were classified into three main groups based on the results they presented: percentage of older adults that were sexually active; frequency of sexual activity; and type of sexual activities. The results show that older adults are sexually active, engage in frequent sexual activity, and participate in a wide variety of activities. Conclusions: Although older adults remain sexually active, differences in the way sexual activity is assessed limit the drawing of firm conclusions and our understanding of the sexual activity of older adults. We propose a series of recommendations to gain a better understanding of this topic.

Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of the “PrEPare for Work” intervention to enhance PrEP uptake and optimize adherence for HIV prevention among male sex workers in the U.S.

BackgroundMale sex workers (MSWs), specifically cisgender men who exchange sex for money, goods, drugs, or other items of value with other cisgender men, are at high risk for HIV infection. Compared to men not engaged in sex work, MSWs are more likely to engage in frequent condomless sex with paying and non-paying sexual partners. While MSWs are often included as a subgroup of gay and bisexual men, data show that a large proportion identify as heterosexual; additionally, most MSWs do not identify as “sex workers.” This places MSWs in a unique position where they may not engage with traditional HIV prevention programs, and when they do, they may not feel comfortable, leading to poor retention. Thus, HIV prevention interventions that address MSWs’ unique life circumstances and provide support in exploring their sexual health options are needed.MethodsIn this protocol paper, we describe the design and procedures for a National Institute of Health-funded, randomized controlled trial testing the efficacy of “PrEPare for Work,”— a theory-based, manualized PrEP uptake and adherence intervention for MSW — using a 2-stage randomization design. Stage 1: MSWs are equally randomized to receive either the “PrEPare for Work Stage 1 intervention” (strength-based case management and facilitated PrEP linkage) or Standard of Care (SOC) to evaluate successful PrEP uptake (prescription filled) within two months post-randomization. Stage 2: Those who initiate PrEP are then equally re-randomized to receive either the “PrEPare for Work Stage 2 intervention” (1-on-1 skills training, problem-solving, and motivational interviewing adherence counseling and personalized, daily text message reminders) or SOC to assess adherence (Tenofovir concentrations in hair) over 12 months of follow up. Planned analyses will examine intervention efficacy, specific conceptual mediators, and hypothesized moderators.DiscussionBased on our extensive preliminary research, multi-component, theory-informed interventions targeting this subpopulation of MSWs’ unique life circumstances are urgently needed. In this study, we are evaluating whether “PrEPare for Work” can improve PrEP uptake and adherence among MSWs. If this intervention is efficacious, it would be readily disseminated to diverse community organizations that serve MSWs and possibly other community or clinic-based settings.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov number NCT05736614, registered February 8, 2023.

(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.

Wives with long and high-quality hair have more frequent sex.

The image of an ideal woman often involves her having long, silky hair. However, the dearth of psychological research on hair limits the understanding of how women's hair functions in romantic relationships. While some scholars have found that the appearance of women's hair signals reproductive potential to men, whether women's hair may affect their sexual lives remains unknown. To investigate the function of hair in romantic relationships, we tested whether women's hair quality and length are associated with sexual frequency in marital dyads. We conducted a paid online survey involving 204 heterosexual marital dyads. The results indicated that women with long and high-quality hair experienced more frequent sexual intercourse with their spouse, as it heightened their husband's perception of their attractiveness and, consequently, intensified their husband's sexual desire toward them. Neither men's hair length nor quality was associated with sexual frequency. Implications of the study are further discussed.

(352) High Genital Satisfaction is Associated with Increased Sexual Frequency and Larger Perceived Penile Anatomy

Abstract Introduction Satisfaction with personal genitalia has profound impacts on quality of life and sexual health. Prior studies of men correlated genital dissatisfaction with decreased sexual activity; however, the association between satisfaction and perceptions of “normal” genital anatomy is unknown. Objective We aimed to assess the interplay between genital satisfaction, sexual activity, and genital anatomy expectations. Methods A 54-item RedCap survey was distributed to volunteers aged ≥18 years through the ResearchMatch database from January to March 2023. Responses were split into: 1) high genital satisfaction (≥7/10 satisfaction rating) and 2) low satisfaction (<7/10). We collected data on perceptions of “normal” genital anatomy and function in addition to sexual function and preferences. Analysis was performed using JMP Pro 16. Results 649 respondents initiated and 558 respondents completed the survey (86% completion rate). Median genital satisfaction was 7/10. 27.9% of respondents identified as male and 72.1% as female. The mean age was 45.8 years, 83.2% were white, 47.9% married or 25.0% never married, and 75.5% had at least a bachelor’s degree. More low-satisfaction respondents reported perceived “normal” erect penis girth <2 inches (7.8% vs. 3.8%, p=0.04), flaccid penis length <2 inches (11.1% vs. 5.1%, p<0.01) and semen volume <2 mL (5.8% vs. 1.3%, p<0.01). More high-satisfaction respondents believed women had orgasms over half the time (20.8% vs. 13.2%, p=0.02). More high-satisfaction respondents were sexually active (81.1% vs. 71.6%, p<0.01). Of the respondents who were sexually active, high satisfaction was more associated with sexual encounters 1-3 times weekly (44.5% vs. 32.1%, p<0.01). Conclusions Genital satisfaction impacts perceptions of male anatomy and female sexual activity. Frequency of sexual activity was higher among high-satisfaction respondents, thus genital satisfaction may be a useful screening tool to determine sexual activity. Disclosure No.

Rights or Obligations: The Extent to Which Sexual Desire and Gender Roles Determine Sexual Intimacy in Romantic Relationships

The present study aims to investigate the relationship between traditional gender roles and the frequency of sexual intimacy within romantic relationships, considering sexual desire and societal norms and expectations. The study was conducted among a convenience sample of men and women in Israel. The survey included measures of sociodemographic information, traditional gender roles, sexual desire, perceived partner’s sexual desire, and frequency of engaging in sex. Findings suggest that men who embraced less traditional gender roles exhibit a greater synchronization between their own sexual desire and their perceived partner’s sexual desire, whereas women who embraced more traditional gender roles tend to rely more on their partners’ sexual desire in their frequency of sex. These results imply that men’s sexual desire plays a significant role in determining the frequency of sexual activity in romantic relationships, especially in relationships where traditional gender roles are more strongly embraced. Findings from the current study underscore the idea that the decision to engage in intimate acts may not solely hinge on individual sexual desire; rather, it operates within a broader context influenced by societal and cultural expectations. It is important to challenge societal norms to promote more balanced and equitable sexual dynamics in committed relationships.

The Association Between Sexual Initiation and Membership in Dyadic Profiles of Perceived Shared Power.

There is scarce empirical evidence examining whether sexual initiation and power are associated with each other. Utilizing latent profile analyses, we examined in a nationally representative sample of US newlywed heterosexual couples (N = 1,948 couples) whether wives' and husbands' sexual initiation patterns and satisfaction with these patterns were associated with membership in different profiles of wives' and husbands' perceptions of shared relational power while accounting for both partner's satisfaction with sexual frequency. We found four profiles of wives' and husbands' perceptions of power. The most common profile was when both wives and husbands perceived high levels of power compared to other profiles, but wives had significantly higher reports of perceived power than husbands (High Power, Wife Higher; 40.8%). Husbands' sexual initiation patterns were not associated with profile membership. Wives who reported equal sexual initiation patterns had a higher probability of being in the High Power, Wife Higher profile compared to the Wife Low Power, Husband Moderate Power profile. Both wives' and husbands' satisfaction with sexual initiation patterns were associated with profile membership. Wives and husbands that were satisfied with sexual initiation patterns had a higher probability of being in the High Power, Wife Higher profile compared to the profile where both wives and husbands had high perceptions of shared relational power compared to other profiles, but their scores were not significantly different from each other (High Power, Equal).

Sexual activity in a large representative cohort of Polish men: Frequency, number of partners, correlates, and quality of life.

Sexual activity of men has been evaluated at the population-level in different regions of the world. However, reliable data are lacking for Eastern Europe. Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze the frequency of sexual activity and the number of sexual partners in a large representative cohort of Polish men. We performed a cross-sectional investigation with computer-assisted web interviews. Participants were stratified by age (≥18 years) and place of residence. The most recent population census was used to produce a population-representative sample of respondents. Men's sexual activity was then correlated with multiple variables. We enrolled 3001 men, representative for age and place of residence, including adequate proportions of respondents from urban and rural areas. Most Polish men were sexually active, predominantly having had sex at least weekly with one partner. Almost 18% of respondents declined sexual intercourse and/or sexual partner in the prior year. The highest sexual activity was observed for men 35-44-years-old (for sex frequency) and 18-24-years-old (for partner number), living in medium-sized cities, employed, and married (for sex frequency) or divorced (for partner number). Erectile dysfunction negatively affected the frequency of sexual activity and lowered the number of sexual partners, although premature ejaculation did not have any effect. Frequency of sexual activity and number of sexual partners correlated well with psychological distress, quality of sex life, and overall life quality. Whereas lifestyle habits including smoking and alcohol intake decreased the likelihood of sexual activity, all analyzed comorbidities did not affect sex life. This study of men's sexual activity was the first population-representative and nationwide investigation performed in Poland. Most Polish men were sexually active and sexual activity correlated with multiple variables including sociodemographic factors, erectile functioning, mental distress, overall and sex-specific quality of life, and lifestyle habits.

The Reproductive Biology of Puye (Galaxias maculatus) under Experimental Culture.

This study determines the reproductive patterns of puye (Galaxias maculatus) under culture conditions. A population of 567 wild fish was caught in the Cautín River, Chile, and held in captivity for four years. Mortality, sex ratio, gonadosomatic index (GSI), sexual maturity stages, spawning period, type and frequency of spawning, and fecundity were measured. The fish grew throughout the experimental period, with the fastest rate during the first half of the first year of life. The highest mortality occurred during the first three months of the experiment and during the spawning season. The sex ratio was almost 1:1 (female:male). First sexual maturity was reached at one year of age, with an average weight of 0.85 ± 0.01 g, total length of 4.85 ± 0.16 cm, and condition factor 0.0074. The highest GSI in both females (12.14 ± 0.74) and males (17.7 ± 2.70) was recorded in August. Nevertheless, the females spawned 3 to 10 times between September and February, with the highest reproductive peak between September and October. The number of embryos per female per day varied from 1 to 429, while the total number of embryos per female during the entire season evaluated varied from 163 to 1044. There was a high correlation (r = 0.82) between absolute fecundity and body weight. Although further studies are needed in this field, these results are basic for establishing future reproductive programs in captivity as a strategy for sustainable fisheries and aquaculture management.

Desire discrepancy in long-term relationships: A qualitative study with diverse couples.

Sexual desire discrepancy is one of the most common, and potentially distressing, aspects of couples' sexual health. There are gaps in the literature exploring desire discrepancy specifically in distressed couples, as well as in queer (sexual and/or gender minority) couples. This study sought to gather qualitative data regarding long-term couples' experiences with distressing desire discrepancy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with both heterosexual and queer partners of varying gender identities (n = 26) to fill these research gaps. Interviews included couple interviews, as well as individual interviews with partners. Data analysis was conducted with thematic analysis, which yielded four primary themes across the course of relationships: Sexual and relationship satisfaction; Changes in sexual frequency, desire, and behavior; Changes in barriers to sex; and Coping with desire discrepancy. Findings can inform clinical interventions focused on desire discrepancy, as well as future research investigating couple's sexual health.

Pengetahuan Dan Sikap Wanita Terhadap Kanker Serviks : Scoping Review

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common disease of the female reproductive system worldwide. The incidence of cervical cancer in the world is entering a critical period, where every year the incidence of cervical cancer is increasing. Until now, cervical cancer is the leading cause of death in developing countries. Aim: To find out about women's knowledge and attitudes towards cervical cancer. Method: Scoping review using Arksey and O'Malley frameworks, using databases from PubMed, EBSCO and Wiley. Result: A total of 14 articles from 2016-2021 used critical appraisal from JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute). Women's knowledge and attitudes towards cervical cancer have six themes. The first theme is knowledge about cervical cancer which consists of knowledge about risk factors, signs and symptoms and early detection of cervical cancer. The second theme is the attitude of women towards cervical cancer consisting of positive and negative attitudes. The third theme is the factors that influence knowledge consisting of age, education, family income and sexual frequency. The fourth theme of factors that influence attitudes is age and education. The fifth theme of information sources consists of mass media, family and friends, health workers and health services. Theme six is the barriers to accessing information and services consisting of a lack of awareness and the high cost of vaccination. Conclusion: Knowledge about cervical cancer in women is still low. Women only have a general idea of cervical cancer. However, women show a good attitude about cervical cancer screening, because cervical cancer can cause death and if early diagnosis of the disease is very helpful in preventing disease.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa Is Associated with Severe Sexual Impairment

Introduction: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the pilosebaceous unit, often affecting and deforming intimate regions. HS is associated with severe pain, pruritus, and constant, purulent, malodorous discharge expected to impair sexual health of patients. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional, multicentric study involving 199 German patients from the health services research project “Epidemiology and Care in Acne inversa (EpiCAi).” The sexual health, HS severity, and quality of life of the studied group were evaluated using a specially designed questionnaire. Results: Regardless of gender, HS has an enormous impact on patients’ sexual health. The patients scored, on average, 28.8 ± 5.3 points on the Relation and Sexuality Scale (RSS). Multiple linear regression revealed that females and patients with Hurley III stage had higher sexual dysfunction (p = 0.012). Sexual dysfunction is associated with pain (β = 0.25), the number of active lesions, the affected areas (β = 0.14), and psychosocial aspects, including low quality of life (β = 0.404), stigmatization (β = 0.411), depression (β = 0.413), and anxiety (β = 0.300). Patients already see a substantial decrease in sexual frequency in the early stages of HS, while functional impairment and fear increase with the severity of the disease. Conclusion: Sexual health and management of its dysfunctions should be part of a holistic approach to HS patients.

Connection Between Depression, Sexual Frequency, and All-cause Mortality: Findings from a Nationally Representative Study

We used the 2005–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), constructed to evaluate health of adults in the United States using consolidated data from interviews and physical exams that were conducted to obtain data for this study. The analysis sample was representative of noninstitutionalized US adults aged 20–59 years. When considering sexual frequency, overall, only female participants with lower sexual frequency were at a higher risk of all-cause death in a dose-response manner with a hazard ratio (HR) of 1.70 (95% CI 1.38–2.10, p trend < .001) during the follow-up period. This relationship was not significant in males. However, when sexual frequency was categorized (<52 times/year vs. ≥52 times/year), the adjusted HR was elevated [2.97 (CI 1.20–7.32, p = .02)] among individuals who had depression and low sexual frequency, but it was close to 1.0 (1.75, CI 0.50–6.07, p = .36) among individuals who had depression and high sexual frequency after adjusting for medical (obesity) and demographic (age, gender, education, and ethnicity) risk factors, indicating a 197% increase in mortality among individuals with low sexual frequency and depression than depression alone. Sexual activity is important for overall cardiovascular health possibly due to reduction of heart rate variability and blood flow increase.

Sexual practices, their influencers, and utilization of HIV services among female sex workers in Mombasa County, Kenya.

female sex workers (FSWs) are vulnerable to acquiring HIV and other sexually transmitted infections due to unprotected sex. Understanding and addressing the gaps in safer sex among FSWs can help to reduce HIV acquisition and transmission. This study described sexual practices, their correlates and use of HIV services among FSWs in Mombasa County, Kenya. participants were recruited for a baseline survey by a time-location cluster randomized design at predetermined intervals from five bars and five clubs in Mombasa County until a sample size of 160 was reached. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis using R were conducted, and p<0.05 was regarded as statistically significant. nearly all (99%) of the participants were unmarried, and 11% had tertiary education. Ninety-eight percent (98%) reported vaginal intercourse, 51% reported using alcohol/drugs before sex, and 28% practiced unprotected intercourse. About 64% had tested for HIV within three months, 14% believed that it is safe to reuse condoms, and 10% that it is safe to engage in unprotected sex. In bi-variate analysis, FSWs were more likely to engage in unprotected intercourse if they reported more frequent sex, more frequent sex with regular clients, poor HIV knowledge, alcohol/drug use, and violence. In multivariate analysis, risky sexual practices were associated with frequency of sexual intercourse, alcohol/drug use, and poor HIV knowledge. female sex workers engage in unprotected sex while under the influence of substances, belief in re-using condoms and have high frequency of sexual intercourse. Inadequate knowledge of HIV and substance use significantly correlated with unprotected sex. Interventions to address these modifiable factors are needed to mitigate the risk of HIV among FSWs.