Higher Levels Of Sexual Dysfunction Research Articles

Differentiation of self as a theoretical framework to understand comorbidity of sexual dysfunction and eating disorder symptoms: an exploratory study

Although the empirical evidence supporting the comorbidity of sexual dysfunction and eating disorders is growing, the theoretical common ground of this comorbidity is not yet known. The aim of the current study was to examine the differentiation of self as a theoretical common ground of the comorbidity between sexual dysfunction and eating disorder symptoms (EDS). We used profiles of sexual dysfunction and eating disorders to examine how these profiles differed in terms of differentiation of self. The study was conducted as an online survey among a convenience sample of 985 Israeli women. Women in the comorbidity group (high levels of both sexual dysfunction and EDS) had significantly lower levels of differentiation of self than did women in the other groups: no disorder (low levels of sexual dysfunction and EDS), EDS (low levels of sexual dysfunction and high levels of EDS), and sexual dysfunction (high levels of sexual dysfunction and low levels of EDS). The current study suggests that differentiation of self may be a shared feature among both sexual dysfunction and EDS. Limitations of the study, directions for future research, and clinical implications are discussed.

(107) “Can Sexual Dysfunction and Stress in Couples Attempting Conception Be Explained by the Ovulation Calculator?” An Evaluation Study

Abstract Introduction Stress and sexual dysfunction affect a significant portion of couples seeking conception, leading to emotional strain. We hypothesized that ovulation calculators, widely used as a tool to predict fertile days, may play a role in the stress experienced by couples undergoing fertility treatments. We evaluated the impact of ovulation calculators on stress levels in couples seeking fertility treatment and explored the associations with sexual dysfunction and mental health implications due to the stress of infertility. Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of ovulation calculators on stress levels in couples seeking fertility treatment and to explore the associations with sexual dysfunction and mental health implications due to the stress of infertility. Methods Participants were recruited from the University of Miami Health System Clinics. Fifty couples consulting for infertility were included in the study. Both partners were asked to complete anonymous self-reported surveys consisting of validated questions related to stress levels, sexual function, and the use of ovulation calculators. The surveys included the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) for females and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) for males to assess sexual function. Additionally, the Fertility Problem Inventory (FPI) was used to measure fertility-related stress and distress. The data collected included age, duration of attempts to conceive, and responses to stress-related questions. Results A total of 50 couples who we reattempting conception completed the cross-sectional study with all the questionnaires were included in the study. Whether or not they were using ovulation calculators, women scored similarly in the 4 variables of the FSFI, including Arousal, Orgasm, Satisfaction, and Lubrication. When evaluating IIEF scores for Male Erectile Function, the average score of men tracking ovulation was 12.0 ± 4.8, compared to 11.5 ± 5.4 in male patients who were not (P-Value: 0.81). The results showed no statistically significant difference in stress levels between couples who used ovulation calculators and those who did not. However, both male and female participants reported higher levels of sexual dysfunction in couples experiencing higher stress levels due to infertility. Fertility-related stress was also found to be significantly associated with mental health implications, with increased anxiety and depression reported by couples undergoing fertility treatments. Conclusions The findings suggest that the use of ovulation calculators did not significantly influence the stress experienced by couples seeking fertility treatment. However, the study highlights the significant impact of infertility-related stress on sexual function and mental health in both male and female partners. These results emphasize the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of infertility and providing comprehensive support to couples undergoing fertility treatments. Further research is warranted to explore the complex interplay between ovulation calculator usage, infertility-related stress, sexual dysfunction, and mental health implications in couples seeking to conceive. Healthcare providers should consider incorporating mental health support into fertility treatment programs to optimize patient outcomes and overall well-being. Disclosure No.

#178 : Sexual Function in Women from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds

Background and Aims: Women from migrant and refugee backgrounds are poorly studied when it comes to sexual function. These women face multiple barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive health services, including language barriers, socio-cultural beliefs, limited socioeconomic resources, and inadequate knowledge. This study conducted a scoping review of existing literature on sexual function and related knowledge in this population. Methods: This scoping review adhered to the 2020 PRISMA guidelines and systematically gathered information from online databases such as Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library. Without applying any search limitations, the review included all studies that examined the sexual function of migrant and refugee women. Based on the eligibility criteria, two authors independently screened and extracted data from the included studies using the Covidence software. Afterwards, descriptive and thematic analyses were conducted. Results: The findings suggest that the sexual function status of migrants is a complex issue influenced by multiple factors, yet it remains understudied, with the majority of research focusing on sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Studies have shown that migrants may experience higher levels of sexual dysfunction; they tend to have less sexual knowledge, liberal attitudes, and lower rates of desire, arousal, and pleasure compared to non-migrant women. Additionally, factors such as acculturation, education, gender role ideology, and satisfaction with partner relationships can impact their sexual function. Conclusions: This study underscores the limitations of research on sexual function in migrants. It emphasises the need for culturally sensitive counselling and psychosocially focused programs aimed at addressing the sexual dysfunction inequities experienced by migrant and refugee women and catering to their unique needs in SRH health care sessions. Future research should focus on neglected populations and tailor effective care to enhance their sexual function and overall well-being.

The Impact of Ovulation Calculators on the Stress Levels of Fertility-Seeking Couples: An Evaluation Study.

Introduction Infertility affects a significant portion of couples seeking pregnancy, leading to stress and emotional strain. Ovulation calculators, widely used as a tool to predict fertile days, may play a role in the stress experienced by couples undergoing fertility treatments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of ovulation calculators on the stress levels of couples seeking fertility. Methods Participants were recruited from the University of Miami Health System Clinics. Fifty couples consulting for infertility were asked to participate in the study and complete anonymous self-reported surveys. The surveys consisted of validated questions related to stress levels and the use of ovulation calculators. The completed surveys were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The data collected included age, number of years trying to conceive, and answers to questions related to stress levels and the use of ovulation calculators. Responses from 50 couples who met the inclusion criteria were included in the final analysis. Results A total of 50 couples who wereattempting conception and who completed all the questionnaires were included in the study. Whether or not they were using ovulation calculators, females scored similarly in the four variables of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), including arousal, orgasm, satisfaction, and lubrication. When evaluating International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)scores for male erectile function, the average score of males tracking ovulation was 12.0 ± 4.8, compared to 11.5 ± 5.4 in male patients who were not (P = 0.81). The results showed no statistically significant difference in stress levels between couples who used ovulation calculators and those who did not. However, in couples experiencing higher stress levels due to infertility, both male and female participants reported higher levels of sexual dysfunction. Fertility-related stress was also found to be significantly associated with mental health implications, with increased anxiety and depression reported by couples undergoing fertility treatments. Conclusion The findings suggest that the use of ovulation calculators did not significantly influence the stress experienced by couples seeking fertility treatment. However, the study highlights the significant impact of infertility-related stress on sexual function and mental health in both male and female partners. These results emphasize the importance of addressing the psychological aspects of infertility and providing comprehensive support to couples undergoing fertility treatments. Further research is warranted to explore the complex interplay between ovulation calculator usage, infertility-related stress, sexual dysfunction, and mental health implications in couples seeking to conceive. Healthcare providers should consider incorporating mental health support into fertility treatment programs to optimize patient outcomes and overall well-being.

Incarcerated Women: Need to Address Sexual Health

ABSTRACT Introduction Incarceration, which affects more than 200,000 women annually, has a multidimensional negative impact on these women's health and wellbeing, including their sexual health. Sexual satisfaction, defined as a subjective evaluation of a sexual relationship, depends on several sociocultural and biopsychological factors, including the individual's physical and mental health, their schooling, and the intimacy setting. These factors are exacerbated in correctional facilities. Most obvious, is the women's lack of a desirable settings for sexual intimacy. It is essential to maintain sexual function in prison as women continue to be sexual beings with sexual needs. Despite this need, there are few initiatives addressing sexual health in incarcerated women, which is known to impact general and mental health, family function, and recidivism. The NJ Commission on Women's Reentry (NJCWR) was legislated to address the health and wellness of both incarcerated and reentry women, including their sexual health. Objective To study incarcerated women's sexual health and the impact of incarceration. Methods A Literature review was conducted on sexual function in US correctional facilities by searching PubMed/Medline and Google Scholar. Relevant publications were sought using keyword combinations including, "sexual function," "sexual satisfaction," "conjugate visits," "incarcerated women," "mental health," "general health," and "US correctional facilities." Results Correctional facilities often enforce abstinence on incarcerated women and adopt deprivation as a measure to resolve sexual desires during incarceration. Additionally, limited knowledge is available about the quality of sexual experiences in the small number of facilities that provide conjugal visits. The available literature shows high levels of sexual dysfunction amongst incarcerated women that is significantly correlated with an increase in mental health issues, aggression, and recidivism. Data suggest that sexual deprivation is more significantly associated with mental health disorders than partner status and romantic relationships. Incarcerated individuals have expressed the lack of sexual contact as "sexual torture." Alternative methods sought may be coercive, less satisfactory, and/or riskier behaviors, possibly leading to transmission of sexual diseases. Only six states allow conjugal visits even though it is a suggested solution with primarily benefits including lower sexual offenses, rape, and disciplinary records in prison. However, many facilities that permit conjugal visits lack private space for the couple. Conclusions Determinants of sexual health include complex cognitive, emotional, and physiological processes. Sexual deprivation and dysfunction dehumanize incarcerated women and negatively affect sexual health, in addition to overall general health. Sexual function and satisfaction is a primarily understudied area in the carceral system, considering all of the barriers to sexual expression. It is imperative for more initiatives, such as those being carried out by the NJCWR, in order to effectively address the needs of incarcerated women, including their sexual health. Disclosure No

Examining Associations Among Sexual Health, Unmet Care Needs, and Distress in Breast and Gynecologic Cancer Survivors

ObjectivesThis study evaluated breast and gynecologic cancer patients’ sexual function, unmet needs related to sexuality, and distress. Data SourcesSecondary analyses of a cross-sectional survey study evaluated measures of sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index [FSFI]), unmet needs (Supportive Care Needs Scale), and distress (Patient Health Questionnaire). χ2 test, t tests, and analysis of variances (ANOVAs) tested bivariate relationships. Subgroup comparisons were made based on the Female Sexual Function Index sexual dysfunction diagnostic cut-off score (<26.55; lower scores indicate greater dysfunction). A regression model tested associations between sexual function and unmet needs with distress as the outcome variable. ConclusionClinically significant sexual dysfunction was common in this cohort of women. In multivariate modeling, worse sexual function and greater unmet sexuality needs related to greater distress. Future work should explore reasons behind the high levels of sexual dysfunction and unmet needs in female survivors. Implications for Nursing PracticeIt is important to routinely screen for sexual health concerns among female cancer survivors at all phases of the cancer trajectory including years posttreatment.

Problematic Pornography Use: Legal and Health Policy Considerations.

Purpose of ReviewReports of sexual violence, especially towards women and children, are rapidly increasing. At the same time, rates of problematic pornography use (PPU) are accelerating across the world too. The purpose of this review is to consider the recent research on PPU and its contribution to sexual violence. The article offers guidance to governments on possible health policy interventions and legal actions to prevent the development of PPU and to reduce the incidence of sexual violence in society.Recent FindingsWorking from the consumer’s point of view, we identify PPU and ask how much pornography is needed to cause PPU. We examine how PPU drives sexual offending in children, adolescents and adults. The impact of PPU on some consumers’ behaviour suggests significant links to domestic violence. Sexual strangulation is highlighted as an example. Artificial intelligence algorithms play a key role in the pornography industry and appear to be driving escalation to more violent material, inducing high levels of sexual dysfunction in consumers and creating appetites for viewing child sexual abuse material (CSAM).SummaryEasy access to internet pornography has led to an increase in PPU and sexual violence. Diagnoses and treatments for PPU are examined, as are legal transgressions of a civil and criminal nature arising from PPU. Legal remedies and government policy implications are discussed from the point of view of the precautionary principle. Strategies covered include age verification for pornography, public health campaigns and embedded health and legal warnings for users at the start of pornography sessions along with lessons for pupils about pornography’s impact on the brain.

The Relationships Between Hyperprolactinemia, Metabolic Disturbance, and Sexual Dysfunction in Patients With Schizophrenia Under Olanzapine Treatment.

The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between prolactin levels and sexual dysfunction in patients with schizophrenia who use olanzapine medication. The potential risk factors of hyperprolactinemia and sexual dysfunction were also investigated. Patients with schizophrenia undergoing olanzapine monotherapy were invited to participate in this cross-sectional study. The Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX) and the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale were used to evaluate subjective sexual dysfunction and psychopathology, respectively. Levels of prolactin and metabolic parameters were also measured. In total, 279 participants with schizophrenia were recruited. The overall incidences of hyperprolactinemia, sexual dysfunction, and metabolic syndrome were 51.6, 53.8, and 43.7%, respectively. Higher ASEX scores, higher insulin levels, female sex, and younger age were associated with hyperprolactinemia. Prolactin level was significantly correlated with ASEX score. Elevated prolactin levels, concomitant antidepressant, increased insulin resistance, longer illness duration, and female sex were associated with sexual dysfunction. Female participants recorded higher levels of sexual dysfunction than their male counterparts did, whereas male participants had comparatively lower prolactin levels and lower rates of spousal partnership. Hyperprolactinemia, metabolic syndrome, and sexual dysfunction are prevalent in patients with schizophrenia treated with olanzapine. Clinicians should maintain awareness of these problems and monitor them regularly with their patients.

The impact of working in a COVID hospital on sexual functioning in male nurses: A study from North India

Introduction:The COVID-19 pandemic has spread to almost all the countries and regions in the world. The fear of getting infected while serving COVID patients and the stress due to separation from family during the quarantine period may impact over sexual functioning of healthcare workers (HCWs).Methodology:The study protocol was approved by the institutional ethics committee. This was a nonfunded, cross-sectional, observational study. All participants provided written informed consent. This study was carried out in a multispecialty tertiary teaching hospital in North India. The participants were drawn from married and living with partner male nurses. Sexual functioning was assessed using the changes in sexual functioning questionnaire short-form (CSFQ-14).Results:The study found that the prevalence of global sexual dysfunction was significantly higher in male nurses who had completed their rotations in the COVID hospital when compared to those who had not. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups on sociodemographic profiles and the profile of their spouses.Discussion:HCWs working in COVID situations are known to suffer from stress, depression, and anxiety. This may impact the sexual functioning of the HCWs, especially when they have been in an infectious environment and the marital dyad may have doubts of the transmission of the infection.Conclusion:Male nurses who have worked in a COVID care setting are likely to report higher levels of sexual dysfunction

Sexual Dysfunction in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IDB) may have higher levels of sexual dysfunction than the general population. We aimed to study the prevalence of sexual disorders in a sample of Brazilian male and female patients with IDB and its association with depression, epidemiological and clinical data. This was a cross sectional study of 192 individuals (40 females with IDB, 40 males with IDB and 112 healthy controls). Male patients and controls answered the IIEF-5 (International Index of Erectile Function-5) and female patients the FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index). Beck Depression Inventory-II was used to access depression. Epidemiological, clinical and treatment data was collected from medical charts. We found that male and female patients with IDB had more sexual dysfunction than controls. Age was the only factor, when considering the various demographics, depression, IDB type, and treatments, that was significantly associated with sexual dysfunction in IBD patients, and this pattern was only detected in males. Taking into account the multi-faceted nature of this disease and how IDB symptoms interfere with sexual functioning, a multidisciplinary approach may be useful to improve the quality of life of patients with IDB.

PD28-02 TRUENTH SEXUAL RECOVERY INTERVENTION FOR COUPLES COPING WITH PROSTATE CANCER: RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL RESULTS

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES:Despite high levels of sexual dysfunction and distress following the treatment of localized prostate cancer, usual care offers only physiologic management focused on ere...

Sexual dysfunction and hyperprolactinemia in schizophrenia before and after six weeks of D2/3 receptor blockade – An exploratory study

Sexual side-effects along with antipsychotic treatment may be linked to hyperprolactinemia and dopamine D2 receptor blockade. High prevalence of sexual dysfunction in un-medicated patients challenges the notion of sexual dysfunction as merely a side-effect of antipsychotic medication. Sexual dysfunction was assessed in fifty-six initially antipsychotic-naïve patients with schizophrenia using the UKU (Udvalget for Kliniske Undersøgelser) questionnaire. Serum-prolactin was obtained before and after six weeks of D2/3 receptor blockade with amisulpride. At baseline 68% of patients reported one or more items of sexual dysfunction (males > females,), but the cumulative load of sexual dysfunction was similar in males and females. After 6 weeks treatment with amisulpride (mean dose 279 mg/day), 65% of patients reported one or more items of sexual dysfunctions (females > males). There was a significant sex*time interaction on mean sexual dysfunction load. All patients developed hyperprolactinaemia, and a significant effect of time and sex was found on s-prolactin (females > males). The results support that patients with schizophrenia report high levels of sexual dysfunction before antipsychotic exposure. After treatment, sexual side-effects were more frequent in females, coinciding with pronounced serum-prolactin increases. These findings suggest sex differences in sexual dysfunction before and after antipsychotic treatment.

Health-Related Lifestyle Factors and Sexual Functioning and Behavior in Older Adults

ABSTRACTThis study explored associations between health-related lifestyle factors and sexual functioning and behavior in 6,916 adults aged 50 and over. Results showed that an active lifestyle was associated with a higher sex drive, more sexual activity, and lower levels of sexual dysfunction (with stronger associations among men). Poor sleep was associated with less sexual activity, higher levels of sexual dissatisfaction, and higher levels of sexual dysfunction. A healthier diet and a higher alcohol intake were associated with more sexual activity and a higher sex drive. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that health-related lifestyle factors are important for sexual functioning and behavior in older adulthood.

Female sexual dysfunction in patients with spinal cord injury: a study from Iran.

We assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI), compare sexual function and sexual distress between female patients with SCI and gender-matched healthy controls, and address risk factors associated with sexual dysfunction among Iranian female patients with SCI. Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Eligible Iranian female patients with SCI were included in this cross-sectional study. They were asked to provide sociodemographic information, and complete the Female Sexual Function Index, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised questionnaire. Of the 105 patients participated in this study, the average age was 41.0 (s.d.=10.1) years. Women with SCI reported significantly higher levels of sexual dysfunction compared with normal controls. Approximately, 88% of SCI patients reported at least one type of sexual dysfunction, whereas only 37% of healthy controls reported sexual dysfunction. Lack of vaginal lubrication was reported more frequent in SCI patients compared with controls. Women with SCI reported a significantly higher level of sexual distress compared with healthy women. Sexual dysfunction was observed to be significantly higher in older patients, those with less education, patients with complete lesions, those with sexual distress and patients who were anxious and depressed. Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent among Iranian women with SCI. Sexual dysfunction is associated with age, education, symptoms of depression and anxiety and level of injury. Sexual counseling during the rehabilitation period may help to prevent sexual dysfunction following SCI.

Sexual Dysfunction Improved in Heroin-Dependent Men after Methadone Maintenance Treatment in Tianjin, China

ObjectiveTo investigate whether methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) is correlated with sexual dysfunction in heroin-dependent men and to determine the prevalence and risk factors of sexual dysfunction among men on MMT.MethodsThe study included a retrospective survey and a cross-sectional survey which contained interviews of 293 men who are currently engaged in MMT. The results of the two surveys were compared. For a subset of 43 participants, radioimmunoassay was additionally conducted using retrospective and prospective blood samples to test the levels of plasma testosterone and luteinizing hormone. Other study evaluations were the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-15), and Self-rating Depression Scale.ResultsSexual dysfunction in all five IIEF-15 domains (erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction, and overall satisfaction) was strongly associated with long-term use of heroin. A decrease in the severity of sexual dysfunction was associated with MMT initiation. Erectile dysfunction, lack of sexual desire, inability to orgasm, and lack of intercourse satisfaction were significantly correlated with increasing age of the participants. Methadone dose and duration of methadone treatment were not found to be associated with sexual dysfunction. The level of plasma testosterone significantly declined during methadone treatment, but results from multivariate analysis indicated low levels of testosterone were not the main cause of sexual dysfunction. No correlation between reported depression status and sexual function was found.ConclusionsWhile high levels of sexual dysfunction were reported by heroin-dependent men in our study before and after MMT initiation, MMT appears to be correlated with improved sexual function in the population of the study.

Avaliação da função sexual em mulheres após a menopausa portadoras de síndrome metabólica

To evaluate sexual function in postmenopausal women diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Case-control study with 195 postmenopausal women (amenorrhea ≥1 year, FSH≥30 mIU/mL, aged 43 to 69 years) seen at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medical Sciences of Santa Casa de São Paulo and in the Basic Units of the Family Health Program of São Paulo. Clinical data were collected, and body mass index and waist circumference were evaluated. Total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterols, triglycerides, and fasting glucose were determined for biochemical analysis. We considered women to have the metabolic syndrome when they met three or more diagnostic criteria: waist circumference>88 cm and triglycerides ≥150 mg/dL; cholesterol HDL <50 mg/dL; blood pressure ≥130/85 mmHg, and fasting glucose ≥110 mg/dL. The participants were divided into Control Group (n=87) and Metabolic Syndrome Group (n=108). The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) was employed to assess the sexual function. Mean age was 54.0 ± 4.7 years. The rate of sexual dysfunction was significantly higher in women with the metabolic syndrome than in the Control Group, both when considering FSFI <26.5 (90/108 [83.3%] versus 42/87 [48.2%], p<0.0001) and FSFI <23 (62/108 [57.4%] versus 16/87 [18.39%], p<0.001). The domains desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm (p<0.001), and satisfaction (p=0.002) had lower scores in women with the metabolic syndrome. For the pain scores, there was no significant difference (p=0.57) between groups. All components of the metabolic syndrome diagnosis were associated with higher levels of sexual dysfunction (p<0.001). Postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome present more frequently sexual dysfunction than those of the same age who do not have it.

Treatment-related toxicity and symptom-related bother followingpostoperative radiotherapy for prostate cancer

Patients have reported late effects and symptom-related bother following postoperative radiotherapy for prostate cancer. Patients treated with postoperative radiotherapy were surveyed at a median 56 months after radiotherapy using the Prostate Cancer Radiation Therapy instrument. A retrospective review was undertaken to obtain Radiation Therapy Oncology Group-Late Effects Normal Tissue (RTOG-LENT) toxicity scores at baseline and during follow-up. Survey response was 64.5%. Median prostate bed radiation dose was 66 Gy given at a median 14 months after surgery. Adjuvant hormone therapy was given for 2 to 3 years to 40 patients; 22 received salvage therapy. PCRT impairment subscales were reported as mild for gastrointestinal dysfunction, moderate for genitourinary dysfunction and marked for sexual dysfunction. The use of one or more incontinence pads daily was reported by 25.6% and was similar to 23% use reported at baseline. Frequent or worse urinary frequency or hematuria was reported by 4.8%, and by 8.4% of respondents for bowel dysfunction. Moderate to severe disruption from bowel and bladder dysfunction was reported by up to 5.4% and 2.4% of respondents, respectively. Erectile function was described as poor to none in 88.3% of respondents, and dissatisfaction with sexual functioning was reported by 42.7%. Counselling or treatment was offered to 59% of those followed. Combined surgery and postoperative radiotherapy are associated with low and moderate rates of bowel and bladder dysfunction respectively, with low reported bother. High levels of sexual dysfunction and bother are seen following combined therapy. More effective pre- and post-treatment counselling are required, along with research into more effective prevention and treatment strategies.

Prevalence and Correlates of Sexual Dysfunction Among Women With Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis

To examine the prevalence and correlates of general and bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC)-specific sexual dysfunction among women in the RAND Interstitial Cystitis Epidemiology study using a probability sample survey of U.S. households. Sexual dysfunction can contribute to a reduced quality of life for women with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC). We telephoned 146,231 households to identify women who reported bladder symptoms or a BPS/IC diagnosis. Those who reported either underwent a second-stage screening using the RAND Interstitial Cystitis Epidemiology study high-specificity symptom criteria. The criteria were pain, pressure, or discomfort in pelvic area; daytime urinary frequency ≥10 times or urgency due to pain, pressure, or discomfort (not fear of wetting); pain that worsened as the bladder filled; bladder symptoms did not resolve after antibiotic treatment; and patients never treated with hormone injections for endometriosis. Women who met the RAND Interstitial Cystitis Epidemiology criteria (n = 1469) completed measures of BPS/IC-specific and general sexual dysfunction symptoms, bladder symptom severity, general physical health, depression, medical care-seeking, and sociodemographic characteristics. Of those with a current sexual partner (75%), 88% reported ≥1 general sexual dysfunction symptom and 90% reported ≥1 BPS/IC-specific sexual dysfunction symptom in the past 4 weeks. In the multivariate models, BPS/IC-specific sexual dysfunction was significantly associated with more severe BPS/IC symptoms, younger age, worse depression symptoms, and worse perceived general health. Multivariate correlates of general sexual dysfunction included non-Latino race/ethnicity, being married, and having depression symptoms. The results of our study have shown that women with BPS/IC symptoms experience very high levels of sexual dysfunction. Also, sexual dysfunction covaries with symptoms.

Sexual function and dysfunction in older HIV-positive individuals

With many parts of the world seeing an aging cohort of people living with HIV (PLHIV), it is becoming clear that some organ systems in these individuals are at a greater risk of disease. There are effects on sexual functioning in aging PLHIV, with many studies finding higher levels of sexual dysfunction in HIV-positive individuals compared with those who are HIV-negative. HIV itself, along with antiretroviral agents, may cause dysfunction. Treatment involves making an assessment of the dysfunction and using the usual methods available, although treatment may be complicated by hormonal deficiencies in HIV-positive individuals, along with the effects of antiretroviral therapy, and drug interactions involving such medications. Furthermore, the issue of HIV transmission needs to be addressed in those seeking treatment for sexual dysfunction.

1511 PREVALENCE AND PREDICTORS OF SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION AMONG WOMEN WITH SYMPTOMS OF INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS/PAINFUL BLADDER SYNDROME (IC/PBS)

You have accessJournal of UrologyUrodynamics/Incontinence/Female Urology: Female Urology I1 Apr 20101511 PREVALENCE AND PREDICTORS OF SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION AMONG WOMEN WITH SYMPTOMS OF INTERSTITIAL CYSTITIS/PAINFUL BLADDER SYNDROME (IC/PBS) Laura M. Bogart, Marika Suttorp, J. Quentin Clemens, and Sandra H. Berry Laura M. BogartLaura M. Bogart Boston, MA More articles by this author , Marika SuttorpMarika Suttorp Santa Monica, CA More articles by this author , J. Quentin ClemensJ. Quentin Clemens Ann Arbor, MI More articles by this author , and Sandra H. BerrySandra H. Berry Santa Monica, CA More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.juro.2010.02.1249AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookTwitterLinked InEmail INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES As part of the RAND Interstitial Cystitis Epidemiology Study (RICE) we examined the prevalence of sexual dysfunction, and relationship of IC/PBS symptom severity to sexual dysfunction in a national representative sample of women with IC/PBS symptoms. METHODS We screened 146,246 households with telephones to identify those with a female age 18 or over who had bladder symptoms and conducted second stage telephone screening to identify women who met symptom criteria and did not meet standard exclusion criteria. A total of 1,473 women met RICE specific criteria for IC/PBS symptoms, and completed a telephone interview. Women who had a current partner were asked the extent to which they had experienced general sexual dysfunction due to physical health in the past 12 months and IC/PBS-specific sexual dysfunction symptoms in the past four weeks. We calculated the proportion of women reporting each sexual dysfunction symptom and average general sexual dysfunction and IC-specific sexual dysfunction scores. We conducted multivariate linear regressions predicting each type of sexual dysfunction score as function of Interstitial Cystitis Symptom Index (ICSI), controlling for age, income, education, marital status, mental health, physical health, number of physical conditions, and receiving medical care for bladder symptoms. RESULTS The Table shows the percentages of women who experienced each IC-specific sexual dysfunction symptom. In multivariate models, higher ICSI scores were associated with higher general and IC/PBS-specific sexual dysfunction scores. Younger age, being married, more mental and physical health symptoms, and visiting a doctor for bladder symptoms were also significant predictors of sexual dysfunction. For IC/PBS-specific sexual dysfunction, the same predictors were significant with the exception of visiting a doctor for bladder symptoms. Item Past 12 months None of the time A little of the time Some of the time Most of the time All of the time Physical health interfered with sex 19.2 27.7 29.0 13.7 10.6 Past 4 weeks Not a problem A little of a problem Somewhat of a problem Very much of a problem N/A Bladder pain during sex 32.4 23.4 23.4 18.9 1.9 Bladder pain after sex 33.3 21.9 23.7 19.3 1.8 Fear sex would exacerbate bladder problems 42.6 17.1 19.0 20.4 1.1 Urge to urinate during sex 40.5 22.2 21.0 14.8 1.6 Pain in genital area 47.2 19.2 20.6 11.6 1.4 CONCLUSIONS Women with IC/PBS symptoms experience very high levels of sexual dysfunction, which may be exacerbated by IC/PBS symptoms. Clinicians should be educated about the extent of dysfunction in IC/PBS populations, as well as potential ways to identify and treat sexual dysfunction among such patients. © 2010 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 183Issue 4SApril 2010Page: e582 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2010 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Laura M. Bogart Boston, MA More articles by this author Marika Suttorp Santa Monica, CA More articles by this author J. Quentin Clemens Ann Arbor, MI More articles by this author Sandra H. Berry Santa Monica, CA More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...