Frequency Of Vaginal Intercourse Research Articles

Hormonal Contraception and Sexuality: Causal Effects, Unobserved Selection, or Reverse Causality?

Many of the women who take hormonal contraceptives discontinue because of unwanted side effects, including negative psychological effects. Yet scientific evidence of psychological effects is mixed, partly because causal claims are often based on correlational data. In correlational studies, possible causal effects can be difficult to separate from selection effects, attrition effects, and reverse causality. Contraceptive use and, according to the congruency hypothesis, congruent contraceptive use (whether a woman’s current use/non-use of a hormonal contraceptive is congruent with her use/non-use at the time of meeting her partner) have both been thought to influence relationship quality and sexual functioning. In order to address potential issues of observed and unobserved selection effects in correlational data, we studied a sample of up to 1,179 women to investigate potential effects of contraceptive use and congruent contraceptive use on several measures of relationship quality and sexual functioning: perceived partner attractiveness, relationship satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, and diary measurements including libido, frequency of vaginal intercourse, and frequency of masturbation. No evidence for substantial effects was found except for a positive effect of hormonal contraceptives on frequency of vaginal intercourse and a negative effect of hormonal contraceptives on frequency of masturbation. These effects were robust to the inclusion of observed confounders, and their sensitivity to unobserved confounders was estimated. No support for the congruency hypothesis was found. Our correlational study was able to disentangle, to some extent, causal effects of hormonal contraceptives from selection effects by estimating the sensitivity of reported effects. To reconcile experimental and observational evidence on hormonal contraceptives, future research should scrutinize the role of unobserved selection effects, attrition effects, and reverse causality.

Factors Associated with Vaginal Lactobacillus Predominance Among African American Women Early in Pregnancy.

Background: Vaginal Lactobacillus is considered protective of some adverse reproductive health outcomes, including preterm birth. However, factors that increase or decrease the likelihood of harboring Lactobacillus in the vaginal microbiome remain largely unknown. In this study, we sought to identify risk and protective factors associated with vaginal Lactobacillus predominance within a cohort of pregnant African American women. Materials and Methods: Vaginal microbiome samples were self-collected by African American women (N = 436) during their 8-14th week of pregnancy. Sociodemographic information and measures of health behaviors, including substance use, antibiotic exposure, sexual practices, frequency of vaginal intercourse, and the use of vaginal products, were collected through participant self-report. The V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was targeted for amplification and sequencing using Illumina HiSeq, with bacterial taxonomy assigned using the PECAN classifier. Univariate and a series of multivariate logistic regression models identified factors predictive of diverse vaginal microbiota or Lactobacillus predominance. Results: Participants who used marijuana in the past 30 days (aOR 1.80, 95% CI 1.08-2.98) were more likely to have diverse non-Lactobacillus-predominant vaginal microbiota, as were women not living with their partners (aOR 1.90, 95% CI 1.20-3.01). Cohabitating or marijuana usage were not associated with type of Lactobacillus (non-iners Lactobacillus vs. Lactobacillus iners) predominance (aOR 1.11, 95% CI 0.52-2.38 and aOR 0.56, 95% CI 0.21-1.47, respectively). Conclusions: Living with a partner is conducive to vaginal Lactobacillus predominance. As such, cohabitation may be in important covariate to consider in vaginal microbiome studies.

Pelvic Floor Biometric Changes Assessed by 4D Translabial Ultrassound in Women With Vulvodynia Submitted to Physical Therapy: A Pilot Study of a Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundVulvodynia is a disabling condition in which pelvic floor muscles' (PFM) hypertonicity plays an important role. AimTo evaluate biometric changes in PFM in women with vulvodynia undergoing kinesiotherapy treatment protocol (KTP). MethodsA single-blinded randomized controlled trial of 57 women with vulvodynia randomly assigned to either KTP + amitriptyline or amitriptyline alone (controls) for treatment. Four-dimensional translabial ultrasound assessed PFM regarding symphysis-levator distance at rest, anorectal angle at rest, excursion of the levator plate angle, and levator hiatal narrowing. Volunteers underwent a vaginal examination for a cotton swab test (CST), fulfillment of Friedrich criteria score and PFM power of contraction, and completed a diary of sexual pain and frequency of vaginal intercourse. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment. OutcomesPrimary outcomes were differences in biometric parameters assessed by four-dimensional translabial ultrasound after treatment, between groups. Secondary outcomes were changes in clinical variables (CST, Friedrich criteria, PFM power of contraction, frequency of intercourse, and intensity of sexual pain) between groups and correlation analysis between biometric parameters and clinical variables. ResultsOnly the KTP group had statistically significant changes in biometric parameters after treatment (symphysis-levator distance: 0.22 ± 0.2, 95% CI = 0.1–0.4, P = .008; levator hiatal narrowing: −0.33 ± 0.2, 95% CI = −1 to −0.2, P = .04). Comparisons between groups showed that symphysis-levator distance (0.3, 95% CI = 0.2–0.6, P = .005) and excursion of levator plate angle (4.9, 95% CI = −0.4 to 10.1, P = .02) improved significantly after KTP treatment. Clinical variables showed greater improvement in the group treated with KTP for CST (difference of −3.7, 95% CI = −7 to −0.4, P = .01), Friedrich criteria (difference of −1.9, 95% CI = −3.2 to −0.6, P = .003), PFM power of contraction (0.3, 95% CI = 0.1–0.6, P = .05) and intensity of sexual pain (reduction of 1.7, 95% CI = −3.1 to −0.2, P = .01). Some clinical and biometric variables correlated positively, for example, frequency of vaginal intercourse and anorectal angle (P = .04; r = 0.25), or inversely, for example, pain intensity at CST and anorectal angle (P = .004, r = −0.31). Clinical ImplicationsThis study provides evidence on efficiency of a physical therapy protocol for improvement of symptoms of vulvodynia and hypertonicity changes. ConclusionThis pilot study suggests that KTP for women with vulvodynia promoted significant changes in PFM biometric measures, consistent with alterations in hypertonicity and clinical improvement.Bardin MG, Giraldo PC, Martinho N. Pelvic Floor Biometric Changes Assessed by 4D Translabial Ultrassound in Women With Vulvodynia Submitted to Physical Therapy: A Pilot Study of a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Sex Med 2020;17:2236–2246.

012 Peyronie’s Disease and the Female Sexual Partner: A Comparison of the Male and Female Experience

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is characterized by penile pain, deformity, and sexual dysfunction, often resulting in significant psychological bother for the patient. However, there is limited data on the impact of PD on the sexual function of female sexual partners (FSP). To compare the experience of men with PD and FSP. We reviewed data on all men and their FSP presenting for initial PD evaluation to our sexual health clinic from 7/2018-5/2019. All men completed a detailed PD-specific survey and the Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire (PDQ). If the patient was accompanied by a FSP at the time of initial evaluation, she was asked to complete the Peyronie’s Disease Questionnaire for Female Sexual Partners (PDQ-FSP) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). We queried our database that included information on patient demographics, clinical characteristics, and survey responses for the patient and FSP. Data was available for 28 men with PD (median age of 54 years; range 38-67 years) and their FSPs (median age of 55 years; range 49-62 years). The majority of men presented in the chronic phase (21/28, 75.0%) and a median PD duration of 12 months (range 2-180 months). Penile shortening was reported in 71.4% (20/28) with median subjective length loss of 2.5 cm (range 1-10 cm). Patient reported erectile dysfunction associated with PD was present in 46.4% (13/28). Median objective composite curvature was 80° (range 25-150°). Hinge effect or penile instability was identified in 60.7% (17/28). Compared to FSFI population-based norms, 27.8% of FSP had sexual dysfunction. Due to PD, female and male partners reported similar difficulty with vaginal intercourse (82.6% vs. 85.7%, p=1.000), decreased frequency of vaginal intercourse (72.7% vs. 85.7%, p=0.441), and at least moderate discomfort/pain with vaginal intercourse (43.5% vs. 30.8%, p=0.501). FSP reported that that they were “very” or “extremely” bothered by the appearance of their partner’s erect penis less often than male partners (17.4% vs. 64.3%, p=0.009). FSP also reported that they were “very” or “extremely” bothered by their partner’s PD during vaginal intercourse less often than men with PD (27.3% vs. 61.5%, p=0.046). Similar proportions of FSP expressed “none/mild” concern with damaging their partner’s penis during vaginal intercourse as “moderate” and “severe/very severe” concern (34.8% vs. 34.8% vs. 30.4%). There was no association between hinge effect or worsening composite penile curvature and FSP bother with erect penile appearance, difficulty with vaginal intercourse, bother by partner’s PD during vaginal intercourse, decreased frequency of vaginal intercourse due to PD, discomfort with vaginal intercourse due to PD, and concern for damaging the male partner’s penis during vaginal intercourse (p>0.05).

Frequência sexual e variabilidade da frequência cardíaca numa amostra não-clínica: Resultados preliminares

Maior frequência coital tem-se associado a maior desvio padrão da frequência cardíaca, um parâmetro da variabilidade da frequência cardíaca (VFC) que pode expressar maior actividade simpática e parassimpática. No presente estudo examinaram-se associações de diversos parâmetros da VFC com a satisfação sexual e a frequência de vários comportamentos sexuais. Sessenta homens e 85 mulheres relataram a sua satisfação sexual com a respectiva subescala da LiSat (Life Satisfaction) scale e qual a frequência em dias no mês precedente de coito vaginal, sexo não coital e masturbação. Os parâmetros da VFC foram calculados a partir de cinco minutos de ECG em repouso (desvio padrão da frequência cardíaca, desvio padrão dos intervalos entre batidas cardíacas, potência de alta frequência, potência de baixa frequência e razão entre baixa e alta frequência). A frequência coital associou-se a maior desvio padrão da frequência cardíaca na amostra feminina, mas não na masculina. A frequência coital não se correlacionou com nenhum outro parâmetro da VFC. A satisfação sexual não se correlacionou com nenhum parâmetro da VFC. A frequência coital poderá ser facilitada por maior actividade parassimpática a par duma moderadamente elevada actividade simpática cardíaca.

238. How Did The First Time Go? Young Adults Looking Back At Their First Vaginal Intercourse

To assess factors associated with having first vaginal intercourse at the right time or not among young adults. Data were drawn from a Swiss national study on sexual health ran in 2017. Participants (4297 young adults aged 24-28, 51.4% females) answered the question “Looking back, regarding your first sexual intercourse with vaginal penetration, do you think that…” and were divided in 4 groups: “I shouldn’t have done it” (NOTDONE:320;7.5%), “I should have waited longer” (WAITED:369;8.6%), “I shouldn’t have waited so long” (NOTWAITED:353;8.2%), and “It was the right moment” (RIGHTTIME:3255;75.7%). Groups were compared on their first vaginal intercourse (age, presumed first time for their partner, in a steady/occasional relationship, enjoyability, and main motivation), current frequency of vaginal intercourse, self-perception of puberty timing, having a chronic condition, and socio-demographic (gender, Swiss/foreign born, life satisfaction) variables. Groups were compared at the bivariate level and then at the multivariate level using a multinomial analysis using RIGHTTIME as the reference category. Data are presented as relative risk ratios (RRR). At the bivariate level, all variables were significant. At the multivariate level, compared to RIGHTTIME, those in NOTDONE were significantly more likely to have had their first vaginal intercourse at a younger age(RRR 0.86), with a partner for whom it was not the first time(1.79), in an occasional relationship(4.91), to have not enjoyed it(4.02); and less likely to have done it to lose their virginity(0.25), out of curiosity(0.25) or love(0.07). They were also more likely to report only one sexual intercourse(9.09). The WAITED were less likely to be males(0.58) and to have done it to lose their virginity(0.33), out of curiosity(0.33) or love(0.10) and more likely to have had their first vaginal intercourse at a younger age(0.88), to think that it was not the first time for their partner(1.92), and to have not enjoyed it(2.61). Finally, the NOTWAITED group were more likely to be males(4.00), older at first intercourse(1.23), declare not being the first time for their partner(1.67), doing it mainly to lose their virginity(2.18), and qualifying it as unpleasant(2.14). Young adults who did not experience their first vaginal intercourse at the right time (whether too early or too late) enjoyed it significantly less, which could in part be explained by the fact that there were more differences in experience with their partners. For the NOTDONE group, their first experience was more in the context of occasional relationships and they were younger, which could possibly explain why it was less enjoyable. Generally, regret is more often considered for girls, however, our results show no gender differences regarding the NOTDONE group, implying that it can affect boys as much as girls. Thus, it appears important to screen about the first vaginal intercourse as it remains a key event and reinforce prevention around first sexual experiences to take place at the right moment and consequently under the best of circumstances.

The Frequency of Vaginal Intercourse During Pregnancy: A Systematic and Meta-Analysis Stud

Objectives: Sexual life may change during pregnancy. Due to negative attitudes toward having sex, unpleasant feeling, and fear of several issues, women might avoid vaginal intercourse during pregnancy. Therefore, the present systematic review aimed to investigate the frequency of vaginal intercourse in pregnancy. Materials and Methods: Comprehensive literature review was conducted to find the relevant articles published (from December 1990 to April 2018) on the issue including observational studies (e.g., cross-sectional and cohort studies) that certainly determined the mean frequency of vaginal sex throughout pregnancy. In this regard, online international databases such as ISI, PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Google Scholar were independently explored and checked by two authors. Duplicate articles were removed by the EndNote X7 Reference Manager. The results were analyzed using RevMan 5.3 software. The P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Totally, after excluding the duplicate and irrelevant articles based on having the mean frequency of vaginal intercourse during pregnancy, 13 articles were obtained. The range of vaginal intercourse frequency varied from 6.01 to 21 times every month pre-pregnancy, 3.67-9.87 times monthly in the first trimester, 2.78-7.21 times monthly in the second trimester, and 1.35-5.9 times monthly in the third trimester. Five out of the 13 selected articles reporting the mean and standard deviation were entered the current meta-analysis. The frequency of vaginal intercourse was obtained 7.75 (7.13-8.38) times monthly prior to pregnancy, 4.16 (3.86-4.46) times in the first trimester, 6.37 (5.60-7.14) times monthly in the second trimester, and 1.81 (1.49-2.13) times monthly in the third trimester. Conclusions: Generally, the frequency of vaginal intercourse decreased in the first trimester while increasing in the second trimester. However, a sharp decline was observed between the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.

Self-Transcendence, Sexual Desire, and Sexual Frequency

ABSTRACTSelf-forgetfulness is a facet of self-transcendence characterized by tendency to experience altered states of consciousness. We examined associations of self-forgetfulness with sexual desire and frequency. Two hundred sixty-one Portuguese men and women completed the self-forgetfulness subscale of the Temperament and Character Inventory–Revised, a measure of openness to experience, and a questionnaire on desired and actual frequency of vaginal intercourse, noncoital sex, and masturbation in the past month. In simple and partial correlations controlling for openness to experience and relationship status, women's self-forgetfulness correlated with desired frequency of intercourse and noncoital sex. For men, self-forgetfulness correlated with actual frequency of intercourse and noncoital sex.

Prácticas sexuales de chicos y chicas españoles de 14-24 años de edad

ObjectivesTo describe the sexual behaviors and practices of Spanish adolescents and young adults according to gender. MethodInformation was gathered by means of a questionnaire administered in participants’ homes in the presence of an interviewer. A random sample was used, consisting of 2,171 adolescents and young adults of both sexes, ranging in age from 14 to 24 years old. The participants were from three distinct regions of Spain: Galicia, Madrid, and Andalusia. ResultsA total of 1,439 participants (66.3%) reported having been sexually active in the previous 6 months, with no statistically significant differences between male (66.4%) and female (66.2%) respondents. However, significant differences were found between males and females in the following variables: anal intercourse was reported by a higher proportion of males than females, the number of sexual partners reportedby females was lower than that reported by males and the frequency of vaginal intercourse reported by females was higher than that reported by males. Condom use in anal intercourse and oral sex was more frequently reported by males than by females. ConclusionsThe results of this study indicate that sexual behavior differs between genders, with females having a lower number of sexual partners and more frequently using a condom in vaginal intercourse but less frequently in oral sex and anal intercourse. In view of these data, we believe that gender should be taken into account when designing and implementing preventive interventions.

Sexual behavior in a Spanish sample aged 14 to 24 years old

OBJECTIVES To describe the sexual behaviors and practices of Spanish adolescents and young adults according to gender. METHOD Information was gathered by means of a questionnaire administered in participants' homes in the presence of an interviewer. A random sample was used, consisting of 2,171 adolescents and young adults of both sexes, ranging in age from 14 to 24 years old. The participants were from three distinct regions of Spain: Galicia, Madrid, and Andalusia. RESULTS A total of 1,439 participants (66.3%) reported having been sexually active in the previous 6 months, with no statistically significant differences between male (66.4%) and female (66.2%) respondents. However, significant differences were found between males and females in the following variables: anal intercourse was reported by a higher proportion of males than females, the number of sexual partners reported by females was lower than that reported by males and the frequency of vaginal intercourse reported by females was higher than that reported by males. Condom use in anal intercourse and oral sex was more frequently reported by males than by females. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study indicate that sexual behavior differs between genders, with females having a lower number of sexual partners and more frequently using a condom in vaginal intercourse but less frequently in oral sex and anal intercourse. In view of these data, we believe that gender should be taken into account when designing and implementing preventive interventions.

Vaginal orgasm is associated with better psychological function

In a large representative sample of the Swedish female adult population (N = 1256), having an orgasm from purely penile stimulation of the vagina (as opposed to orgasms from clitoral stimulation) was associated with greater satisfaction (with sex life, mental health, relationships with both partners and friends, and life in general), more frequent sexual desire, greater likelihood of having one's first ever orgasm from intercourse rather than masturbation, and lesser recent masturbation frequency. The association of vaginal orgasm with these measures was unconfounded by a marginal association of vaginal orgasm with frequency of vaginal intercourse (which was independently associated with most of the measures of greater satisfaction). Vaginal orgasms were not associated with having had orgasms from partner masturbation or cunnilingus. The results are discussed in terms of recent advances in sexual physiology showing different pathways for vaginal versus clitoral sensation and orgasm, other empirical research showing psychological and physiological advantages of penile – vaginal intercourse over other sexual behaviours, psychoanalytic theory, and the need to overhaul the practices of sex therapy and sex education.

Brief report: Sexual sensation seeking and its relationship to risky sexual behaviour among African-American adolescent females

The relationship between sexual sensation seeking and sexual risk taking has been investigated among adult populations. There are limited data, however, regarding this relationship for adolescents. Since African-American adolescent females continue to be disproportionately diagnosed with STDs, including HIV, we examined this association among a clinic-based sample of African-American adolescent females ( N=715) enrolled in an STD/HIV prevention intervention. Participants (ages 15–21) endorsing higher levels of sexual sensation seeking reported higher levels of sexual risk-taking behaviours (e.g. frequency of vaginal intercourse, number of sexual partners, and poorer condom use). Results remained significant after controlling for known covariates associated with sexual risk-taking behaviours. Results are consistent with the adult literature and highlight the need for future investigations examining sexual sensation seeking among adolescents. These results, though preliminary, could be used to better inform prevention interventions and clinicians/health educators who provide direct services to adolescents.

Gender differences in the prediction of condom use among incarcerated juvenile offenders: testing the information-motivation-behavior skills (IMB) model

Purpose To validate the predictive value of the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills (IMB) model of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention for sexually active juvenile offenders and to explore gender differences in IMB model constructs for condom-protected vaginal intercourse. Methods Self-report measures of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) knowledge, pro-condom peer influence, risk perception, condom attitudes, condom use self-efficacy, frequency of vaginal intercourse, and frequency condom-protected vaginal intercourse were collected from predominantly African-American adolescent detainees. Analysis consisted of structural equation models for the combined sample (N = 523) and for separate gender groups (328 males and 195 females). Results In the combined model, condom use was significantly predicted by male gender, peer influence, positive condom attitudes, and condom self-efficacy. In separate gender analyses, condom use among adolescent males was predicted by peer influence (modestly) and by positive condom attitudes, whereas condom use among females was predicted by peer influence, self-efficacy, and condom attitudes. Compared with males, females reported significantly greater knowledge, less peer influence, higher perceived risk for infection, more positive condom attitudes, and more self-efficacy, but they reported less condom use. Conclusions Females may find it difficult to use condoms consistently despite their awareness of their efficacy. Power imbalances or other dynamics operating in their relationships with males need further exploration. Gender differences in the relationship between condom self-efficacy and condom use were masked in the analysis of the total sample, indicating the value of testing theories of HIV prevention separately by gender.

Sexual dysfunction after a first trimester induced abortion in a Chinese population

Objective To evaluate the short-term effect of a first trimester induced abortion on sexuality in a Chinese population. Study design This is a cross-sectional study. One hundred and four women attending the post-abortion clinic 3–4 months after a first trimester induced abortion were recruited. They completed a self-administered questionnaire anonymously. The associations of various factors with sexual behavior after abortion were analyzed by the Chi-square test. Results More than 30% of the women reported a reduction in both frequency of vaginal intercourse and sexual desire. Their partners also had a reduction in sexual desire. The reduction of vaginal intercourse is more significant among young, unmarried women and those not having sterilization ( P = 0.01). In addition, the prevalence of reduction in sexual desire and enjoyment among those women who had repeated abortion was significantly higher ( P < 0.01). Conclusion The sexuality of both women and their partners are affected after abortion. It may be due to both psychological trauma and the worry of another unwanted pregnancy. Proper counseling may relieve their anxiety and improve sexual lives.

Influência da freqüência de coitos vaginais e da prática de duchas higiênicas sobre o equilíbrio da microbiota vaginal

PURPOSE: to verify if the high frequency of vaginal intercourses and the use of doushing interferes with vaginal microbiota. METHODS: ninety-seven women were examined at a health center located in the prostitution area of the city of Campinas, and evaluated in a prospective cross-sectional study. Anamnesis determined the frequency of vaginal intercourse and the use of douching in the 44 sex professionals and 53 non-professionals studied. The vaginal content was collected with a sterile Dacron swab, from the right vaginal wall, and placed on to two glass laminas. The vaginal microbiota smear stained by the Gram technique was studied with light microcopy using immersion lens and the data were analyzed. The sex professionals and non-professionals presented mean age of 24.9±6.4 and 31.5±9.7, habit of smoking in 52.2 and 24.5%, the use of vaginal lubricants in 56.8 and 0%, and the use of condoms in 100 and 41.5% of the cases, respectively. RESULTS: only 1.8% of the women in the control group had seven or more sexual intercourses per week, contrasting evidently with the sex professionals (97.7%). There were no significant differences regarding race, educational level and number of pregnancies. Bacterial vaginosis and abnormal vaginal flora were more observed in sex professionals (p=0.02 and 0.001) and were associated with the high frequency (seven times or more) of weekly vaginal intercourses (p=0.04 and 0.001). Cytolytic vaginosis was more related to non-professionals (p=0.04) and to a lower frequency of sexual intercourses (p=0.04). The use of doushing was more common in the sex professionals (p=0.002). However, this practice was not associated either with the vaginal microbiota problems or with the presence of vulvovaginitis. CONCLUSIONS: sex professionals with seven or more sexual intercourses per week presented a higher frequency of bacterial vaginosis and abnormal vaginal flora. The doushing habit did not interfere with the vaginal environment ecosystem of the studied women.

Consistency of self-reported sexual behavior and condom use among current sex partners.

The objective of this study was to determine concordance in sex partner reports of frequency of vaginal and oral intercourse and condom use. Self-reported behaviors among 112 women treated for urinary tract infection (UTI), sore throats, or receiving birth control at a student health service were compared with that of their current sex partner. Correlation was excellent for frequencies of vaginal intercourse (r = 0.88), cunnilingus (r = 0.72), fellatio (r = 0.76), and condom use (r = 0.86), but women with UTI compared with women without UTI reported greater frequency of sexual activity than their sex partner. This effect overwhelmed the modest increases in correlation associated with duration of relationship and marital status. Women with genitourinary symptoms may over-recall frequency of sexual behavior compared to women without these symptoms. Knowing the extent of this recall bias will assist in the interpretation of data and appropriate correction of parameters when included in prediction models.

Recalling sexual behavior: A methodological analysis of memory recall bias via interview using the diary as the gold standard

This study examined the effect of time lag on the validity of retrospective self‐reports of sexual behavior. Seventy‐five heterosexual students (44 women, 31 men) made daily recordings of sexual behavior, condom use, and alcohol or substance use for 1 month. Ability of respondents to recall sexual behavior recorded during this period was assessed at 1, 2, and 3 months after diary completion using recall interviews (25 interviewed at each interval). For vaginal intercourse, total recall error was significantly greater at 3 months than at 1 month post‐diary. For all other variables assessed, the 2‐ and 3‐month time intervals did not produce significant increases in total recall error. Higher frequency of vaginal intercourse, orgasm, and alcohol use prior to sexual activity were associated with total recall error for some but not all behaviors and outcomes. The results provide a partial validation of the diary‐interview recall model as a method for studying recall error.

Alexithymia is inversely associated with women's frequency of vaginal intercourse.

The study examined the relation between frequency of penile-vaginal intercourse (FSI; contrasted with other sexual behavior) and alexithymia (difficulty recognizing, identifying, and communicating emotions, reduced fantasy capacity, and an externally oriented cognitive style). To minimize response bias, persons scoring above the 86th percentile on the Eysenck Personality Inventory Lie scale were excluded. Participants (54 female and 39 male healthy young adults) completed the German version of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and provided both recall and diary measures of FSI, partner sex without vaginal intercourse, and masturbation. For women, TAS-20 scores were inversely associated with both recall and diary measures of FSI but not other sexual behavior. For men, TAS-20 scores were unrelated to all sexual behavior measures. Thus, for normal women but not men, alexithymia was specifically associated with lower FSI. Results are discussed in terms of the unique nature of penile-vaginal intercourse, emotional integration and sexuality, and both less alexithymia and greater FSI being associated with indices of better physical and psychological health.

A preliminary report relating frequency of vaginal intercourse to heart rate variability, Valsalva ratio, blood pressure, and cohabitation status

The relationship between recalled frequency of penile-vaginal intercourse (FSI) and resting heart rate variability (HRV; an index of parasympathetic tone), resting diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and heart rate (HR) response to the Valsalva maneuver was examined in 51 healthy adults aged 20–47 (subjects scoring above the 86th percentile on the Lie scale of the Eysenck Personality Inventory (EPI) were excluded). As hypothesized, greater HRV and lower DBP were both associated with greater FSI (but not masturbation or non-coital sex with a partner) in cohabiting subjects, but not in non-cohabiting subjects. Valsalva ratio was unrelated to sexual behavior. Results are discussed in terms of both the modulating role of blood pressure on a number of psychological functions and the role of parasympathetic tone in HRV, FSI, and possibly pair-bonding.

Condom Use and First-Time Urinary Tract Infection

We evaluated the effects of condom use, lubricated condom use, and spermicide use on risk of acquiring first urinary tract infection in a case-control study of sexually active college women ages 18-39 years. Cases (N = 144) were women with first urinary tract infection that was confirmed by culture recruited at the student health service; controls (N = 286) were women without a history of urinary tract infection who were randomly sampled from all women enrolled at the university. Participants completed a self-administered questionnaire regarding type and frequency of condom use during the previous 2 weeks. Condoms and spermicides usually were used in combination with each other or oral contraceptives. After adjusting for frequency of vaginal intercourse, using unlubricated condoms compared with using no birth control method strongly increased the risk of first urinary tract infection (odds ratio = 29.1; 95% confidence interval = 3.1-1,335). Using a lubricated condom (with or without spermicide in the lubricant) or a spermicidal cream or gel with an unlubricated condom was associated with two- to eightfold risk of first urinary tract infection. Unlubricated condom use was strongly associated with risk of first urinary tract infection, but this effect was largely neutralized by using a spermicidal cream or gel with the unlubricated condom or by using a lubricated condom.