Levels Of Sexual Satisfaction Research Articles

Sexual Health and Psychological Well-Being: An Examination of the Interactions between Sexual Satisfaction, Relationship Dynamics, And Mental Health

This study comprehensively examines the relationships between sexual health and psychological well-being, focusing on sexual satisfaction, relationship dynamics, and mental health. The primary objective of this research is to determine how individuals' levels of sexual satisfaction impact their psychological well-being and to understand the dynamics of this relationship. While existing literature widely discusses the positive effects of sexual satisfaction on individuals' overall mental health and quality of life, this research aims to analyze these interactions from a more unique perspective. Utilizing quantitative methods, including statistical analyses such as independent sample t-tests, the study compares face-to-face and online data sets. The findings reveal that sexual satisfaction has a significant and robust impact on psychological well-being. It was observed that sexual satisfaction enhances individuals' capacity to cope with stress, reduces anxiety levels, and improves overall mental health. Additionally, relationship dynamics, particularly factors such as emotional alignment and closeness with a partner, significantly strengthen the interaction between sexual satisfaction and psychological well-being. In this context, the study sheds light on the interdependent dynamics of sexual health and psychological well-being, offering critical insights for clinical practice in this area. Enhancing sexual satisfaction could substantially improve individuals' quality of life and mental health. Therefore, it is recommended that sexual health topics receive greater emphasis in psychotherapy and counseling processes.

Sexuality of urologist in training: Does cobbler always wear the worst shoes? Sex AFUF study.

Sexuality is an integral part of well-being. Urologists are a population faced with a significant workload and stress that can affect their sexuality. The purpose of this study is to investigate sexuality in this population and assess factors that may impact it. A cross-sectional study was conducted between May and July 2023 among French urology residents and fellows. Data was collected through an anonymous questionnaire sent by the French Association of Trainee Urologists (AFUF) via email. Out of 445 members of the AFUF, 196 trainee urologists responded. Among them, 130 young urologists, accounting for 66% of respondents, were satisfied with their sexual life, and 123 (63%) respondents reported having one or more sexual encounters per week. In univariate analysis, factors significantly impacting the level of sexual satisfaction were gender (p=0.029), level of job satisfaction/well-being (p<0.01), level of professional burnout (p<0.001), and the existence of a romantic relationship. Young urologists are mostly satisfied with their sexual life. Gender, level of job satisfaction/well-being, and level of professional burnout are significant factors impacting the level of sexual satisfaction.

The relationship between body image and sexual satisfaction in women who have undergone hysterectomy.

This study aims to examine the relationship between body image and the level of sexual satisfaction in women who have undergone a hysterectomy. This descriptive study utilized a relational screening model. Conducted between June 2023 and March 2024, the study included a total of 300 sexually active women who had undergone a hysterectomy 6 months prior. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Golombok-Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale, and the Body Image Scale through face-to-face interviews lasting approximately 20-30 min. The average age of the participating women was 44.4±10.55 years. Of the participants, 96.7% were married and 42.4% had entered menopause. The average score on the Body Image Scale was 81.2±3.8, and the average score on the Golombok-Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale was 33.0±15.1. A positive significant relationship was found between body image and sexual satisfaction (p<0.05). There was also a statistically significant positive relationship between the total scores on the Body Image Scale and the Golombok-Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale with age and frequency of sexual intercourse (p=0.049, p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.047, and p=0.014). It was determined that as the age and frequency of sexual intercourse increased, the levels of body image and sexual satisfaction also increased. Our study found that women's self-image is negatively affected, and their level of sexual satisfaction decreases following a hysterectomy.

The effect of genital self-image on sexual satisfaction and stress in women after vaginal delivery.

Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods bring along biological, psychological, and social changes that could affect women's sexual health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of genital self-image on sexual satisfaction and stress in women who had a vaginal delivery. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted online between June and September 2023 by using snowball sampling and the data collection forms prepared in the GoogleDocs program. Women who had a normal vaginal delivery were included, were within 6 weeks to 1 year postpartum, were able to use at least one of the social media networks (e-mail, WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram), and volunteered to participate in the research. Data were collected through the Personal Information Form, the "Female Genital Self-Image Scale," the "Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction," and the "Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised." The average age of the participating women was 30.54±5.83 years (n=235). The participants' mean scores were 18.94±2.92 for the Female Genital Self-Image Scale, 40.07±15.51 for the Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction, and 8.85±8.50 for the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised total. A statistically significant and negative relationship was found between Female Genital Self-Image Scale and Golombok-Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised total scores (r=-0.183, p<0.01; r=-0.387, p<0.01). Regression analysis (forward) was performed, and genital self-image was found to be the predictive factor affecting sexual satisfaction and stress. This study found that women had a medium level of genital self-image and sexual satisfaction and a low level of sexual distress.

Depression, anxiety, stress and related factors among husbands of Iranian women with cancer: A cross-sectional study

PurposeThe aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress and their related factors in husbands of women with cancer. MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 400 husbands of women with cancer who referred to two cancer referral centers in Kashan (Isfahan, Iran) from April to August 2022. The demographic and medical data, the Larson Satisfaction Questionnaire (LSQ), and the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21) were collected. ResultsThe mean age of the husbands was 50.47 ± 10.16 years, and the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress was 15%, 17.5%, and 17.8%, respectively. Multiple regression analysis revealed significant associations between husbands' depression and age, involvement rate in caring for their wife, sexual satisfaction, and education level (p < 0.05). The rate of anxiety was also related to education level, economic status, housing status, the rate of involvement in caring for one's wife, sexual satisfaction, the duration of the woman's cancer, the degree of cancer progression, and the length of hospitalization due to cancer (p < 0.05). The stress rate also showed a significant correlation with age, educational level, degree of involvement in caring for one's wife, and duration of cancer (p < 0.05). ConclusionThe prevalence of psychological problems among husbands of women with cancer is remarkable. Therefore, based on the identified factors associated with these complications, supportive care programs can designed by health care professionals to improve mental health and reduce the suffering of husbands of patients with cancer.

Sexual Excitation in Young Women with Different Levels of Sexual Satisfaction in Relationships: A Laboratory Study.

Sexual satisfaction is an important dimension of sexual health. Despite there being evidence about its relations with sexual arousal, this association has not been addressed considering arousal as a trait and as a state. Therefore, the goal of this laboratory study was to examine, in young women with different levels of sexual satisfaction in their relationships, sexual arousal as a trait (i.e., propensity for sexual excitation/inhibition) and as a state (i.e., genital response and self-reported sexual arousal to a video with explicit sexual content). The sample was composed of 45 Spanish heterosexual women with a partner, from 18 to 25 years old. In the first phase, we evaluated the propensity for sexual inhibition/excitation and sexual satisfaction of the participants. In the second phase-in the context of a sexuality laboratory-the vaginal pulse amplitude, the rating of sexual arousal, and the rating of genital sensations were evaluated. The participants, distributed in three groups with different levels of sexual satisfaction (p < 0.001), were compared based on the different measures of sexual arousal. The results indicated that the group with lower sexual satisfaction, compared to the group with higher sexual satisfaction, reported more sexual inhibition due to the threat of performance failure (p = 0.011) and due to the threat of performance consequences (p = 0.038). However, no significant differences in sexual arousal status were found between the three groups. In conclusion, the negative association between sexual satisfaction and propensity for sexual inhibition in young women with a partner is supported, but not the positive association between trait/state sexual arousal and sexual satisfaction.

The intersection of bisexuality and gender modality: exploring differences in sexual interest and satisfaction

Background Sexual well-being is crucial for overall health, but research on bisexual individuals’ sexual experiences across gender modalities is limited. This study aims to address this gap by examining differences in sexual interest and satisfaction among bisexual adults of various gender modalities. Objectives To investigate whether there are differences in sexual interest and satisfaction levels among bisexual adults across gender modalities (cisgender men, cisgender women, and transgender/gender diverse individuals). Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted with 475 self-identified bisexual adults (161 cisgender men, 228 cisgender women, 86 transgender/gender diverse). Participants completed demographic questionnaires and standardized measures of sexual interest and satisfaction from the PROMIS Sexual Function and Satisfaction Version 2.0. One-way ANOVAs were used to compare scores across gender modality groups. Results Significant differences were found in sexual interest across gender modalities (F(2, 472) = 10.131, p < .001). Cisgender men reported higher sexual interest (M = 52.958) compared to cisgender women (M = 48.563, p < .001) and transgender/gender diverse individuals (M = 50.566, p = .170). No significant differences were found in sexual satisfaction across gender modalities (i(2, 387) = 2.102, p = .124). Conclusions While cisgender bisexual men reported higher levels of sexual interest, sexual satisfaction was comparable across all gender modalities. These findings highlight the need for nuanced understanding of sexual experiences among bisexual individuals and underscore the importance of considering gender modality in research and clinical practice related to sexual health. Implications This study contributes to the limited research on bisexual individuals’ sexual experiences across gender modalities. The findings can inform more inclusive and tailored approaches to sexual health care and support for bisexual individuals of all gender modalities.

Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Orchialgia After Varicocelectomy Surgery.

Introduction: The management of chronic groin and scrotal content pain (orchialgia) is a complex condition after varicocelectomy that is encountered by most practicing clinicians. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in orchialgia after varicocelectomy surgery. Methods: This study was performed as a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial in which sixty patients with orchialgia after varicocelectomy were randomly divided into three groups of 20 as follows: (1) low-level laser group with red (650 nm, 50 mW), (2) low-level laser group with infrared (IR) (820 nm, 100 mW), and (3) laser placebo group. The treatment protocol consisted of 15 minutes, three times a week, for only 12 sessions. Then, the patients were evaluated for pain and sexual satisfaction during the 12-week follow-up. Results: The pain score in the two groups of low-level laser with red light and IR spectra showed a significant relief (P<0.05) 6 and 12 weeks after starting the treatment, In addition, a significant increase was observed in the level of sexual satisfaction in the red and infrared spectra LLLT groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: We concluded that the use of LLLT with red light (650 nm, 50 mW)/IR (820 nm, 100 mW) spectra with power of 6-25 J/cm2/day in 15 minutes, three times a week, for 12 sessions can significantly reduce pain and increase sexual satisfaction in these patients.

Child marriage and quality of marriage among young married women in a rural district, Lorestan Province, Iran

PurposeChild marriage remains a significant socio-cultural phenomenon with profound implications for the quality of marital relationships, particularly among young women. This study investigates the association between child marriage and the quality of marriage among young married women in Iran.MethodsThis study employed a population-based cross-sectional research design. A total of 70 young women, aged 18–20 years, who had married before reaching 18 years of age, were selected from four primary health care (PHC) centers in Papi District, Lorestan Province, Iran, employing a systematic random sampling approach. Subjects were categorized into women experiencing relationship distress and those without such distress using the Quality of Marriage Index (QMI). Concurrently, their level of sexual satisfaction was assessed utilizing the Hudson’s Index of Sexual Satisfaction (ISS). Furthermore, Social Support was evaluated using the Social Support Questionnaire (SSQ).ResultsThe mean age (SD) of women was 18.9 (0.7) years, and their mean age (SD) of marriage was 15.2 (2.1) years. Women experiencing distress showed significant differences in age of menarche (P = 0.006), education levels (P = 0.039), spouses’ education (P = 0.025), spouses’ occupations (P = 0.004), household income satisfaction (P = 0.041), and household structure (P = 0.045). Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis revealed significant and positive correlations between sexual self-efficacy and social support with marital quality (r = 0.73, p < 0.001 and r = 0.55, p < 0.001, respectively). Conversely, there was a significant negative correlation between the score of indexes of sexual satisfaction and marital quality (r = -0.65, p < 0.001).ConclusionThese findings emphasize the complex factors affecting marital quality and underscore the urgent need for interventions to support young women in early marriages. It is essential to reinforce policies aimed at reducing child marriage to improve the quality of marriage among young married women.

Sexual function, quality of life, anxiety, and depression in women of reproductive age using hormonal, nonhormonal, and no contraceptive methods.

Hormonal contraceptive use has been related to adverse effects, including impacts on sexual function and sexual satisfaction, although the difference in the effects on sexual function with the use of hormonal vs nonhormonal contraceptive methods remains controversial. In this study we sought to compare the prevalence of dyspareunia, sexual function, sexual satisfaction, quality of life, anxiety, and depression between women using hormonal, nonhormonal, or no contraceptive methods and to compare these outcomes between the most frequently used contraceptive methods. This cross-sectional study included sexually active women of reproductive age who were stratified into 3 groups: women using hormonal, nonhormonal, or no contraceptive methods. Based on the use of questionnaires administered to the study participants, we compared sexual function in the 3 groups and more specifically among users of oral contraceptives, copper and hormonal intrauterine devices, and barrier methods. Participants completed 4 questionnaires to assess sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index), sexual satisfaction (Sexual Quotient-Feminine Version), quality of life (12-item Medical Outcomes Short Form Health Survey), and anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). This study included 315 women classified into 3 groups on the basis of contraceptive use: 161 in the hormonal contraceptives group (median [interquartile range] age, 24 [23-28] years), 97 in the nonhormonal contraceptives group (age 26 [23-30] years), and 57 in the no contraceptive methods group (age 28 [24-35] years). Dyspareunia prevalence showed no difference between the groups. In the quality of life domain, compared with women in the nonhormonal contraceptive group, women in the hormonal contraceptive group were younger and had lower sexual function satisfaction, reduced arousal, and heightened pain (P< .05), as well as higher anxiety and depression levels (P= .03, for both), increased pain (P= .01), and poorer overall health (P= .01). No difference was found between these groups in other quality of life domains. Regarding contraceptive methods, women using copper intrauterine devices had better sexual function, including higher rates of arousal and lower anxiety, than women using oral contraceptives (P< .05). The results of this study highlight worse sexual function and sexual satisfaction and higher levels of anxiety and depression in women using hormonal contraceptive methods than in women using nonhormonal methods. The findings of this study strengthen the evidence of differences in sexual function between women using oral contraceptives and those using copper intrauterine devices. Sexual function was also compared among users of oral contraceptives, copper and hormonal intrauterine devices, and barrier methods. However, less frequently used contraceptive methods, such as hormonal injections and vaginal rings, could not be compared in this sample. Women using hormonal contraceptive methods were younger, had lower sexual function and satisfaction, and experienced higher anxiety and depression levels than women using nonhormonal contraceptive methods.

Sexual Well-Being and Aging Patterns: Findings of a Cluster Analysis among Older Adults in Portugal and Spain.

From a cross-cultural perspective, aging well may encompass pertinent challenges in terms of adjustment, sexual well-being, and satisfaction with life in the late years. Considering the paucity of empirical data concerning cultural diversity of experiencing aging, this study aims to help fill this gap by assessing the specific patterns of sexual satisfaction, adjustment to aging (AtA), and life satisfaction with life (SwL) of older adults in Portugal and Spain. This cross-national study included 326 older adults, age 65 and older, from Portugal and Spain. Five instruments were applied: (a) Adjustment to Aging Scale (ATAS); (b) Satisfaction with Life Scale (SwLS); (c) New Sexual Satisfaction Scale-Short (NSSS-S); (d) Mini-Mental State Exam; and (e) Sociodemographic, Health and Lifestyle questionnaire. K-means cluster analysis was employed to identify and characterize the clusters considering adjustments to aging, sexual satisfaction, and life satisfaction. One-way ANOVAs were conducted to analyze differences in sexual well-being among clusters. Findings indicated three clusters, which explained 77.7% (R-sq = 0.777) of the total variance: Cluster 1: "Most skilled" (n = 26, 8.0%), Cluster 2: "Least adjusted" (n = 115, 35.3%), and Cluster 3: "Aging strivers" (n = 185, 56.7%). Participants in Cluster 1 were mostly Portuguese, with high levels of AtA, sexual satisfaction, and SWL. Conversely, Cluster 2 included mostly Portuguese participants with moderate sexual satisfaction and lower levels of AtA and SwL. Participants from Cluster 3 were mostly Spanish, with moderate levels of AtA and reduced sexual satisfaction and SwL. This study innovates by exploring the elaborate interplay among sexual satisfaction, AtA, and SwL in a cross-cultural perspective, with implications for tailoring interventions, service planning, development, and evaluation of culturally diverse older populations.

French validation of the oMtFSFI Questionnaire for assessing the sexual function of Transgender women after vulvo-vaginoplasty

IntroductionThe Operated Male-to-Female Sexual Function Index (oMtFSFI) questionnaire is the first scoring system developed to assess sexual function after gender-affirming vulvo-vaginoplasty, and was initially developed and validated in Italian. The aim of this study was to provide linguistic validation of the questionnaire in French through several steps including use of the questionnaires across a series of patients who had undergone gender-affirming vulvo-vaginoplasty between 2020 and 2022 at two French academic centers. MethodThe French version of the oMtFSFI questionnaire was obtained through a double translation (Italian to French) and a back-translation (French to Italian), validated by a scientific committee, and cognitively assessed by a panel of expert patients. The questionnaire was then distributed to transgender male to female patients who had undergone genital gender affirming surgery at two French academic centers. ResultsThe oMtFSFI score consists of 18 questions exploring 7 domains (genital self-image, desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, sexual pain). Among the sixty-four patients who responded to the questionnaire, 16 patients (25%) reported abstaining from sexual activity involving vaginal penetration at the time of the study were excluded. The mean total score was 37, corresponding to mild to moderate sexual dysfunction and 60.4% of the patients reported normal overall sexual function. The level of sexual satisfaction was normal for 68.8% of the patients and the genital self-image was normal for 52.1%. Most of the patients (79.2%) reported at least mild dyspareunia and 10.4% had critical sexual dysfunction. Surgery improved gender dysphoria in 96.7% of patients. There was a strong correlation between the overall oMtFSFI score and the happiness Visual Analog Scale (VAS) (P<0.001) as well as with the quality of life VAS (P<0.001). ConclusionThe French version of the oMtFSFI questionnaire is the only scoring system specifically developed to assess sexual function after vulvo-vaginoplasty in transgender women linguistically validated in French. Its validation in French language makes it an interesting tool for research and clinical practice. Level of evidence3.

Psychosocial and Sexual Aspects of Female Genital Circumcision in a Sample of Kurdish Women in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Female genital circumcision (FGC), a prevalent practice in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, has significant psychosocial and sexual implications for affected women. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate these impacts among circumcised and non-circumcised Kurdish women. This comparative study was conducted from January 2 to June 27, 2023, at the Al Mesalla for Human Rights Improvement organization in Erbil, Iraq. Purposive sampling was used to collect data using a comprehensive questionnaire. The questionnaire included demographic information, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE), and the New Sexual Satisfaction Scale-Short Form (NSSS-S). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with frequency and percentage used for categorical variables and mean and standard deviation for quantitative variables. Independent sample t-tests and Chi-square tests were conducted to compare groups. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 772 participants were enrolled in the study, including 382 circumcised and 390 non-circumcised women. The study found significant differences between the two groups in terms of depression, self-esteem, and sexual satisfaction. Circumcised women had higher mean scores for depression (12.19 ± 5.6 vs. 10.68 ± 5.3), lower mean scores for self-esteem (24.4 ± 12.1 vs. 30.3 ± 10.1), and lower mean scores for sexual satisfaction (52.4 ± 24.6 vs. 67.6 ± 20.4) compared to non-circumcised women (all p < 0.001). The study demonstrated that FGC is associated with higher levels of depression, lower self-esteem, and lower sexual satisfaction among Kurdish women. It is recommended for policymakers and healthcare providers to develop targeted interventions to address the psychosocial and sexual health needs of circumcised women in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Sociodemographic Predictors of Sexual Communication and Sexual Communication as a Predictor of Sexual, Relationship, and Life Satisfaction in Denmark, Finland, France, Norway, Sweden, and the UK

Sexual communication is associated with higher levels of sexual and relationship satisfaction. However, research suggests that many struggle with sexual communication. Using a cross-country convenience sample of 7,139 respondents from six European countries (Denmark, Finland, France, Norway, Sweden, and the UK), we investigated sociodemographic predictors of different facets of sexual communication and their associations with sexual, relationship, and life satisfaction. Data was collected in May and June 2022 through respondent panels, by Cint, a market research software platform. Participants received an email invitation to the study and completed an online self-report survey. We found that a large proportion did report difficulties with sexual communication or a wish to improve such communication. We also found that sociodemographic factors predicted each facet (self-disclosure, frequency of communication, and quality of communication) of sexual communication as a set, but that the strongest predictors were sexual frequency and dissatisfaction with the low frequency of sex. Lastly, each facet of sexual communication was associated with higher levels of sexual, relationship, and life satisfaction. Across results, we generally found little cross-country variation.

Underneath the Sheets: a Cross-Cultural Cluster Analysis of Older Adults’ Patterns of Aging and Sexual Well-Being in Portugal and Mexico

AbstractThis study aims to assess the patterns of life satisfaction with life (SwL), sexual satisfaction, and adjustment to aging (AtA), of older adults in Mexico and Portugal. A sample of 658 older adults, aged 65 years-old and older, from Mexico and Portugal were recruited for this cross-cultural study. The following measures were applied: (a) Adjustment to Aging Scale (ATAS); (b) Satisfaction with Life Scale (SwLS); (c) New Sexual Satisfaction Scale (NSSS); (d) Mini-Mental State Exam; and (e) Sociodemographic, health and lifestyle questionnaire. Clusters were identified and characterized by using K-means cluster analysis, encompassing SwL, AtA, and sexual satisfaction. Sexual well-being differences among clusters were analyzed with One-way ANOVAs. Findings indicated three clusters, which explained 76.4% (R-sq = 0.764) of the total variance: Cluster #1: “Moderately adjusted older adults” (n = 355, 53.9%), Cluster #2: “Moderately fulfilled older adults” (n = 265, 40.3%), and Cluster 3: “Well adjusted and satisfied older adults” (n = 38, 5.8%). Participants in Cluster #1 were mostly Mexican, with moderate levels of AtA and reduced sexual satisfaction and SwL. Conversely, Cluster #2 predominantly consisted of Portuguese participants with moderate sexual satisfaction and SwL, and lower levels of AtA. Participants from Cluster #3 were mostly Portuguese with high levels of AtA, sexual satisfaction, and SwL. This innovative study explored the intricate relationship between sexual well-being, the ability to adjust to aging, and overall SwL, in two different cultural contexts. Findings contributed to the understanding of the relationship between these three variables and for developing tailored future interventions and service planning with older adults in different cultures.

Relación entre el nivel de autoestima, autoconcepto y satisfacción sexual en población adulta

Sexual satisfaction is an essential element at the heart of sexual health which influences well-being and quality of life. This study arises from the need for more studies that delve into this concept and the associated variables. The objective is to investigate the relationship among the variables self-esteem, self-concept and sexual satisfaction, and the existing differences based on age or sex. The sample consists of 155 participants from 25 to 50 years old; 53% are women and 47% men. They used the Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory (SEI; Coopersmith, 1967), the AF-5 (García y Musitu, 1999) and the New Satisfaction Scale (NSSS; Pérez, 2013). The results show a positive relationship between self-esteem and self-concept in relation to sexual satisfaction; higher levels of sexual satisfaction in women compared to men and the existence of an inverse relationship between age and sexual satisfaction in the general sample, significant in men but not significant for women, which maintains more constant levels of sexual satisfaction as their age increases.

Sexual health of women using combined oral contraceptive containing estetrol and drospirenone: A prospective observational study

Aim. To evaluate the effect of a combined oral contraceptive (COC) containing estetrol and drospirenone on the sexual function of women using it. Materials and methods. A total of 251 women aged 21–35 years (mean age, 25.30±2.82 years) referred for contraceptive fitting were included in the study (ICD-10: Z30.0 General contraceptive advice and counseling, Z30.4 Contraceptive drug monitoring). Women in the study cohort used the original formulation containing 15 mg estetrol and 3 mg drospirenone in a 24+4 regimen for contraceptive purposes, according to the current instructions. All female participants (n=251) were assessed for sexual function at baseline, 6 and 12 months using FSFI (The Female Sexual Function Index), FSDS-R (The Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised) and SQoL-F (The Sexual Quality of Life-Female) scales. Study design. An open, independent, prospective observational study. Results. Women taking COC containing estetrol 15 mg and drospirenone 3 mg maintained a baseline high level of sexual satisfaction (p0.05) throughout the study, as assessed by FSFI, SQoL-F and FSDS-R scales. Conclusion. The results obtained indicate that there is no negative effect of COC containing 15 mg estetrol and 3 mg drospirenonone on the sexual function of women. High contraceptive efficacy of the drug was confirmed.

Partner-Caregivers’ Interpretation Bias and Sexual Satisfaction: Gender and Congruency in Pain-Related Beliefs

It has been suggested that family caregivers of chronic pain patients may develop cognitive biases similar to those observed among patients in previous studies. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding the effect of such biases on patients’ adaptation to pain. In this study, we examined the relationship between partner-caregivers’ interpretation bias and sexual satisfaction among married heterosexual couples. We further examined the relationship between caregivers’ interpretation bias and congruency in the beliefs that patients and caregivers hold about the experience of pain. The sample comprised 32 married couples in a caregiving relationship and 28 married individuals who were neither patients nor caregivers, serving as control participants. Caregivers and controls completed a modified version of the interpretation bias task. Patients and caregivers filled out the Sexual Satisfaction Index and a Patient’s Pain-Related Disabilities Checklist. Results confirmed that a biased negative interpretation exists among caregivers when compared to partners of pain-free individuals. A noticeable gender effect was observed in the effect of interpretation bias on patients’ sexual satisfaction. Female partner-caregivers’ negative interpretation bias was associated with a lower level of sexual satisfaction among male patients. In contrast, the same bias was associated with higher levels of sexual satisfaction among female patients when observed among male partner-caregivers. Furthermore, a moderate but not symmetrical positive interpretation was associated with higher levels of congruence on the level of patients’ disability within couples. The findings are another step toward incorporating the social circuit of individuals with chronic pain conditions into intervention protocols.

Sexual Function in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Living in Stable Heterosexual Relationships: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background/Objective: The prevalence and character of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have not been precisely determined. The aim of this study was to assess FSD using the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ-14) in women with PCOS and their partners compared to a control group, as well as correlations between five subscales, the total score of the CSFQ, and seven questions of the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Methods: The study sample (N = 160) comprised two groups: (1) women with PCOS and their partners (n = 91) and (2) women without PCOS and their partners (control group; n = 69). Results: The total scores of the CSFQ did not reveal FSD in either group of women. Regarding all subscales and the total score, the analysis showed a statistically significant difference between women and their partners (in all cases: p < 0.001). The discrepancy in arousal between women and men in the PCOS group was large (the mean difference was -2.32; t = -11.29, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = -1.26). The importance (VAS1), the level (VAS7) of sexual satisfaction, and the intensity of sexual thoughts (VAS2) correlated with almost all domains of the CSFQ. Conclusions: In conclusion, normal sexual function in PCOS does not mean proper sexual functioning in a sexual relationship.

Dyadic associations and prediction of maternal and paternal sexual satisfaction in couples–Findings from an 18-year longitudinal study

Background: Sexual satisfaction is one of many crucial factors for the long-term success of romantic relationships. Longitudinal studies examining the dyadic associations between maternal and paternal factors in middle adulthood for predicting sexual satisfaction in later adulthood are scarce. MethodThe German longitudinal intervention study "Future Family” followed families with at least one child over 18-years (Pre: N = 477, mothers: M = 35.2 years, fathers: M = 38.8 years, children: M = 4.1 years). At the time of the 18-year follow-up, N = 150 mothers (M = 54.1 years) were still living together with the biological fathers (M = 56.1 years; mean relationship duration: 32 years). Dyadic associations between individual and dyadic factors at Pre were analyzed with Actor-Partner Interdependence models to predict sexual satisfaction 18 years later. ResultsHigher relationship quality was significantly associated with higher levels of one's own sexual satisfaction 18 years later. Higher levels of maternal and paternal mental health problems were linked to lower levels of sexual satisfaction in both the individual themselves and their partner. General life satisfaction of mothers and fathers only predicted their own sexual satisfaction. The model for dysfunctional parenting yielded no significant effects. ConclusionsThe results indicate that relationship quality, mental health problems, and general life satisfaction of both parents could be starting points for preventive and therapeutic interventions to achieve long-term effects in sexual satisfaction in married couples.