Levels Of Sexual Desire Research Articles

Too much or not enough? Self-reported experiences of relational distress based on level of sexual desire

ABSTRACT The diagnostic of sexual desire disorders is based on not only physiological and psychological symptoms but also on the extent of distress about these symptoms. Using data from a 2022 national survey of 3,000 respondents in Austria, this paper explores the range of relational distress individuals experience about their level of sexual desire. Participants were asked, ‘Have you ever been ostracised or ridiculed in your life for feeling too much (not enough) sexual desire? If yes, in what way?’ Gender and sexual minorities were more likely than cisgender and heterosexual participants to report negative reactions to their level of desire. The paper presents the results of a thematic analysis of the 341 written answers to the latter question. The analysis identified three themes: a) harassment, such as mocking, bullying, or public humiliation; b) the pathologization of desire as a sexual disorder; and c) negative social classification with respect to gender, age, or sexual orientation. By investigating different types of negative social reactions that individuals experience with respect to their level of sexual desire, the paper critically questions an individualised notion of sexual distress that has often been the basis for biomedical and psychological interventions by highlighting social factors that produce distress in the first place.

Correlation of sexual desire with sexual hormone binding globulin and free androgen index in women using combined contraceptives

Purpose To correlate the sexual desire levels with sexual hormone binding globulin and free androgen index in women taking different types of hormonal contraceptives (HCs) containing ethinylestradiol (EE), oestradiol valerate (E2V), 17β-oestradiol (E2), or estetrol (E4), combined or in phasic formulation with different progestogens having antiandrogenic properties. Methods Three hundred and sixty-seven women (age range 18-46) participated in the study. SHBG and total testosterone (TT) were measured, and the Free Androgen Index (FAI) was calculated. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS) questionnaires were used to assess sexual function and distress, respectively. Results The highest SHBG values and the lowest FAIs were obtained of women on HCs containing EE than those of women on HCs containing E2V/17β E2 or E4 (p < 0.001). Desire scores and FSFI total scores were lower in women on HCs with EE than in those using HCs containing E2V, 17β E2, or E4 (p ≤ 0.001). The women who were on HCs containing EE reported FSDS levels higher than those containing all the other types of oestrogen. Finally, sexual desire and FSFI total scores had a negative correlation with the SHBG values and a positive correlation with FAI percentage (p ≤ 0.0001). Conclusions A minority of women using HCs with EE might experience a decreased sexual desire. This was not observed in women on HCs containing E2V, 17 E2, or E4. To avoid HC discontinuation, due to sexual desire reduction, HCs having minor antiandrogenic effects could be taken into consideration.

Attachment style and distress in couples experiencing sexual desire discrepancy

Intimate partners’ sexual desire for each other can fluctuate throughout the course of their relationship, and greater difference between partners’ habitual level of sexual desire (i.e., sexual desire discrepancy [SDD]) is linked to lower sexual and relationship satisfaction ( Mark, 2015 ). Although some couples view SDD as a natural and normal part of a sexual relationship, others experience significant distress and may seek therapy. Based on a prominent literature on attachment among couples ( Birnbaum &amp; Reis, 2019 ; Mark et al., 2018 ; Mikulincer &amp; Shaver, 2007 ), the current study incorporated an actor-partner interdependence model to examine the dyadic associations between insecure attachment style (i.e., anxious, avoidant) and sexual desire among couples experiencing distressing or non-distressing levels of SDD. Couples ( N = 202; 51% female, 48% male, 1% different gender; M = 28 years old, SD = 5.05) were recruited through social media (e.g., Instagram, Twitter) and completed a survey assessing sexual distress, adult attachment style, and sexual desire. Although anxious and avoidant attachment did not moderate an association between SDD and sexual distress, higher levels of avoidant attachment were associated with sexual distress for the individual, but not with their partner’s distress. Findings suggest attachment may be essential for understanding individuals’ experience of sexual distress when coping with discrepant levels of sexual desire in romantic relationships.

(096) Attachment Orientation Moderates the Sexual and Relational Implications of Sexual Desire Discrepancies

Abstract Introduction Discrepancies in partners’ levels of sexual desire (SDD) are common in long-term relationships and can be experienced as distressing. Because sexual compatibility is a strong prescriptive among Western couples, it is relevant to examine the sexual and relational implications of SDD in relationships that are marked by cultural restrictions and gender stereotypic norms. Objective We examined discrepancies in sexual desire between partners and assessed how such discrepancy relates to sexual and relational functioning, taking into account both partners’ attachment orientation Methods 100 couples of which more than half experienced sexual problems completed an Arabic version of questionnaires on sexual desire, sexual function, sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction and attachment orientation. Results Men and women reported better sexual function, sexual satisfaction, and relational satisfaction when they matched on higher levels compared to lower levels of sexual desire. In case there was a mismatch between partners, women reported higher sexual satisfaction when their partner’s level of sexual desire was higher than their own desire. Attachment orientation was found to moderate the associations between the degree and direction of SDD and the outcome variables. Male attachment avoidance moderated the association between SDD and both male and female sexual function. Male attachment anxiety moderated only the association with female sexual function, indicating that women with high anxious partners reported better sexual function when their partner’s level of desire was higher than their own desire. In addition, the female attachment dimensions moderated the association between SDD and female satisfaction outcomes, with attachment anxiety moderating the association with sexual satisfaction and attachment avoidance moderating the association with relational satisfaction. Conclusions We showed the importance of considering both the level and direction of SDD and the partners’ attachment history to understand its sexual and relational implications. Therapeutic interventions should be directed at understanding the attachment meaning of sexual desire, facilitators and barriers of sexual desire across time and context, and the reasons why some couples cope better with SDD than others. Disclosure No.

(166) Safety of Flibanserin in Men with Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

Abstract Introduction Flibanserin possesses unique properties and displays selective agonistic and antagonistic activity against serotonin receptors. Originally, its primary application was in the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in women, where it showed promising results in improving sexual desire. However, as our understanding of its mechanism of action has expanded, researchers have begun to explore its potential utility in treating HSDD in males. This emerging trend has led to an increased interest in the use of flibanserin as a potential therapeutic option for men experiencing a decline in sexual desire. Objective We aimed to elucidate the demographic profiles, clinical attributes, and comprehensive safety implications of men receiving off-label flibanserin at our institution. Methods A retrospective analysis encompassing a cohort of men who initiated flibanserin treatment between July 2022 and July 2023 was performed. Basic demographic information, levels of total and free testosterone, pertinent medical history, scores from the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and overall manifestation of side effects were collected. Descriptive statistics were performed. Results A total of 26 patients were identified, with a mean age of 57.9 years (range, 31–80 years). Among these patients, seven had a prior diagnosis of depression and had previously received treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The mean levels of total testosterone and free testosterone were found to be 611.3 ng/dL and 116.8 pg/mL, respectively. Notably, a significant majority of patients (22 of 26 [81.4 %]) were diagnosed with erectile dysfunction. Importantly, all patients exhibited euthyroid status. The mean baseline score on the PHQ-9 was 5.30 (ranging, 0–17), indicating mild depressive symptoms, whereas the mean IIEF total score was 40 (range, 6–67). Furthermore, the mean score on the IIEF-desire subdomain was 5.65 (ranging: 2–10), reflecting relatively diminished levels of sexual desire. Upon conducting a follow-up assessment at the 3-month mark, it was observed that seven patients discontinued flibanserin medication, with reasons such as ineffectiveness and high cost being cited as the primary factors. Notably, only one patient (3.8%) discontinued the medication because of side effects. Conclusions In summary, our study sheds light on the fundamental characteristics associated with off-label utilization of flibanserin in men with HSDD, underscoring the increasing interest in investigating its potential therapeutic advantages within this specific population. However, additional research is warranted to comprehensively elucidate the clinical benefits and potential risks of flibanserin administration in men. Such investigations will contribute to a more thorough understanding of its efficacy and safety profile. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Disclosures: Consultant for AbbVie, Marius, Tolmar, Endo, Petros, Boston Scientific, Coloplast Investor: Sprout.

Role of Body Gaze, Interpersonal Sexual Objectification and Sensation Seeking in Sexual Self-Concept in Heterosexual Young Adults in Pakistan

Past research has shown that body gaze behavior is marked for being a central feature of sexual objectification and that it may be associated with the sexual self-concept and tendency for sensation seeking among both men and women. The purpose of the present study was to assess the role of body gaze, interpersonal sexual objectification and sensation seeking in the sexual self-concept of heterosexual young adults in Pakistan. A cross-sectional research design was used to assess the aforementioned predictive associations with a sample of 455 individuals comprising 250 males and 205 females selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was done using Pearson product moment correlation, multiple regression using dummy coding and MANOVA. The findings showed that body gaze behavior toward the other gender significantly predicted interpersonal sexual objectification, higher levels of sexual desire and sexual anxiety along with a higher orientation toward sensation seeking. Moreover, men scored high on body gaze behavior, sexual desire, sexual anxiety and sensation seeking. These results resonate with the existing body of research on sexual objectification, sexual self-concept and sensation seeking and how cultural contexts may contribute toward the above associations.

Influence of Pregnancy on Sexual Desire in Pregnant Women and Their Partners: Systematic Review.

Objectives: Pregnancy is a stage in which different physical and psychological changes take place that can affect the sexuality of the couple. The aim of the study is to identify how the physical and psychological changes derived from pregnancy affect the sexual desire of women and men. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was carried out in five databases, from which a total of 16,126 documents were obtained. After applying the PRISMA selection criteria, a total of 19 documents were selected. Results: Levels of sexual desire fluctuate during pregnancy, being the second trimester of gestation the period in which desire is at its highest and in which physical limitations and emotional changes decrease. Women have lower levels of sexual desire in the first trimester, while men have the lowest levels of desire in the third trimester. Conclusion: Pregnancy is a stage marked by physiological and psychological changes that modify several areas, including sexuality. Healthcare professionals should promote a healthy sexuality, avoiding the appearance of fears or sexual dysfunctions caused by the changes that occur during pregnancy.

Characteristics of Young People Reporting a Low Sexual Desire in Switzerland

This study explores the characteristics of young female and male adults (mean age 26.3 years) reporting a low sexual desire. A 2017 Swiss national survey was carried out among young adults. Participants were divided into two groups based on their level of sexual desire: Low and High. Overall, 17.2% of females and 5.7% of males reported a low sexual desire. At the multivariate level, compared to females in the High group, females in the Low group had higher odds of being dissatisfied with their social life and with their sexual life in the past 4 weeks, having no current relationship and having accepted several times sexual intercourse without really wanting. Compared to males in the High group, males in the Low group had higher odds of reporting a non-heterosexual attraction (trend), having no current relationship and having accepted several times sexual intercourse without really wanting. The prevailing idea that young people, particularly males, always have high levels of sexual desire may not be accurate and warrants further consideration. These results show that sexual desire encompasses social aspects and underscore importance of addressing how stereotypes and social norms may influence our sexuality.

Prevalence and predictors of sexual distress in married reproductive-age women: A cross-sectional study from Iran.

Although various surveys have been conducted for sexual problems, there is a lack of population-based studies on sexual distress in Iran. Thus, we sought to determine the prevalence and predictive factors of sexual distress in this population. Overall, 1000 married women aged 16-49 years were enrolled in this study using the two-stage cluster sampling method. To identify sexual distress, the female sexual distress scale-revised (FSDS-R) was completed. The predictive factors were assessed using a checklist. A total of 318 women (31.8%) suffered from sexual distress. Among socio-demographic factors, satisfaction with marriage (p = 0.001), among personal factors history of infertility and fear of contracting sexually transmitted infections (p < 0.01), and among sexual and interpersonal factors satisfaction with the level of sexual desire (p = 0.01), pain during sexual intercourse (p < 0.01), premature ejaculation disorders in the partner (p < 0.05), and sexual satisfaction (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with sexual distress. Clinicians should evaluate sexual distress comprehensively and consider all the related dimensions. The high overall prevalence of sexual distress, with or without an identifiable dysfunction, signals the importance of health professionals being adequately prepared to discuss sexual health concerns.

Pengaruh Tindakan Histerektomi terhadap Kualitas Kepuasan Seksual pada Pasien Plasenta Akreta di Indonesia (Literature review)

Placenta accreta is a complication in pregnancy that can increase the risk of maternal morbidity and mortality. Placenta accreta is a condition in which the implanted placental villi go too deep into the uterine wall. In the past few decades, the prevalence of placental cases in Indonesia has increased along with the increase in cesarean deliveries. Patients with post-hysterectomy can have changes in self-image acceptance that can affect psychological conditions and sexual satisfaction to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study aims to determine how the effect of hysterectomy on the level of sexual satisfaction in placenta accreta patients in Indonesia. This study used a literature review study design. Research article searches were sourced from the PubMed, Google Scholar, and SCOPUS electronic databases. Search articles using keywords, namely hysterectomy, placenta accreta, sexual satisfaction. The results of a review of three journals that have been carried out show that the incidence of placenta accreta in placenta previa is quite worrying, namely as much as 25-50% and is a priority for cesarean section. The treatment that is often the choice is hysterectomy. The results showed that the effects of hysterectomy on women included orgasm problems, decreased libido, accelerated menopause, and nerve damage. This causes 10-20% of women to experience a decline in sexual function. The data that we reviewed can be concluded that although there are sexual dysfunction disorders in placenta accreta patients with hysterectomy therapy, there is no significant difference in the level of sexual desire between patients with hysterectomy and without hysterectomy in cases of placenta accreta.

Assessment of the effect of mindfulness monotherapy on sexual dysfunction symptoms and sex-related quality of life in women.

Mindfulness-based therapies (MBTs) are frequently used in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions. So far, there has not been sufficient evidence for the effectiveness of interventions based on mindfulness monotherapy. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of mindfulness monotherapy on the reduction of sexual dysfunction symptoms and sex-related quality of life. We conducted 4 weeks of MBT for 2 groups of heterosexual females: 1 with psychogenic sexual dysfunction (WSD) and 1 with no sexual dysfunction (NSD). Overall 93 women were recruited for the study. We collected data via an online survey regarding sexual satisfaction, sexual dysfunctions, and mindfulness-related features at baseline, 1 week after MBT, and follow-up 12weeks after MBT. Research tools included the Female Sexual Function Index, Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, and Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire. Participating in the mindfulness program had a positive effect on women with and without sexual dysfunction. The overall risk for sexual dysfunction decreased from 90.6% at baseline to 46.7% at follow-up in the WSD group and from 32.5% at baseline to 6.9% at follow-up in the NSD group. Participants in the WSD group reported a significant increase in levels of sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm between measurements, although not in the pain domain. Participants in the NSD group reported a significant increase in the level of sexual desire between measurements but not in levels of arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and pain. A significant increase in sex-related quality of life was observed in both groups. The results of the study have a chance to translate into an introduction of a new therapeutic program for specialists and more effective help offered to women experiencing sexual dysfunctions. This mindfulness monotherapy research project, which included assessment of meditation "homework," is the first to verify the potential of MBT in reducing symptoms of psychogenic sexual dysfunctions among heterosexual females. Major limitations include the lack of randomization, an adequate control group, and a validated measure of sexual distress. The applied training was beneficial in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions in terms of increasing desire and arousal as well as the ability to reach orgasm. However, this approach needs more investigation before it can be recommended in the treatment of sexual dysfunction. The study should be replicated under a more rigorous research design, including adequate control groups and random allocation of participants to study conditions.

(055) Sexual Boredom and Sexual Desire in Men and Women in Long-term Relationships: A Latent Profile Analysis

Abstract Introduction Research suggests a linkage between sexual boredom and sexual desire but without a detailed understanding how these are intertwined. Individuals in long-term monogamous relationships seem especially affected by low sexual desire and might present with varying degrees of sexual boredom. Objective This study aimed to identify different groups of women and men in long-term, monogamous, and cohabiting relationships based on their levels of sexual boredom and sexual desire and to verify if they differed in sexual orientation, relationship duration, sexual satisfaction, and relationship satisfaction. Methods A latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted using online self-reported data from a sample of 1223 Portuguese participants aged 18-66 years (M = 32.75, SD = 6.11) on sexual boredom, and sexual desire (partner related, attractive other related, and solitary). Regression analyses were conducted to explore predictors and correlates of the latent profile classification. Results LPA indicated three distinct profiles in women and two profiles in men. Two of the women’s profiles and one the men’s profile were characterized with above-average sexual boredom. Among women, above average sexual boredom was paired with below-average sexual desire for partner in two profiles. Women in the profile with the highest level of sexual boredom also presented the highest levels of solitary and of attractive-other sexual desire and had substantially lower odds of reporting been strictly heterosexual. In men with high sexual boredom, levels of attractive-other and solitary sexual desire were higher than among men who reported below-average sexual boredom. Both groups of men presented similar above average levels of sexual desire for their partners. Latent profiles characterized by below-average sexual boredom had higher sexual (both men and women) and relationship satisfaction (women only) compared to other participants. Relationship duration did not predict profile membership. Conclusions These results indicate that lower levels of sexual boredom are related with better sexual outcomes in long-term relationships and suggest and that higher levels of sexual boredom might be linked to low sexual desire and to high sexual desire. Women’s dyadic sexual desire seems to vary according to the level of sexual boredom, as in higher sexual boredom is linked to lower sexual desire for partner. Men’s level of sexual desire for partner does not differ between men with different levels of sexual boredom, but higher sexual boredom seems to be accounting for higher levels of the men’s solitary and attractive-other sexual desire. Results potentially mean that women prone to sexual boredom might require active implementation of novelty in their sexual relationships to manage low sexual desire for familiar partners and that autoeroticism and fantasizing about attractive others might contribute to higher overall sexual desire, but not necessarily to higher satisfaction. In addition, men highly prone to sexual boredom might be seeking solitary sexual activities and/or sexual activities with attractive others to manage problematic high sexual desire. This study adds evidence that sexual boredom and relationship characteristics are better predictors of sexual desire in long-term relationships than relationship length and that sexual boredom might be particularly relevant for the understanding of low sexual desire and of hypersexuality. Disclosure No

The associations of sexual desire, daily stress, and intimacy in gay men in long-term relationships.

We investigated the associations between daily stress, sexual desire and intimacy in gay men in long-term relationships. A daily diary method of data collection was used. Twenty-two adult participants completed brief questionnaires ten times per day during seven consecutive days. Multilevel regression analyses revealed significant negative associations of daily stress with sexual desire (p = 0.003); higher stress came with lower levels of sexual desire, and vice versa. The hypothesized moderation effect of the associations of stress with sexual desire by intimacy was found significant (p = 0.003). However, the effect was not as predicted: at higher levels of intimacy the negative effect of stress on sexual desire was shown to be stronger than at lower levels. Most temporal associations of stress and intimacy with sexual desire were not significant. Nevertheless, the present findings implicate that daily stress and intimacy are important factors in sexual functioning of gay men in long-term relationships.

Sexual Desire of Women With Fast and Slow Life History Throughout the Ovulatory Cycle.

Findings on female sexual motivation across the ovulatory cycle are mixed. Some studies have reported increased female sexual desire on fertile days or midway through the ovulatory cycle, whereas others have reported increased sexual desire on nonfertile days. We postulated and tested the hypothesis that the pattern of the cyclical change of female sexual desire is associated with women's life history. Female participants completed life-history measures and rated their levels of sexual desire on the survey day and reported the first day of their current and subsequent cycle, respectively (Study 1), or recorded their sexual desire throughout an entire cycle by submitting daily reports (Study 2). Results indicate that women with a fast life history experienced peak sexual desire midcycle, whereas women with a slow life history experienced two peaks of sexual desire midcycle and around their menses. These findings suggest that, consistent with the underlying life history, cyclically differential peaking of sexual desire may serve different reproductive functions.

The effects of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair on human sexual activity

Abstract Purpose To assess the effect of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair on sexual function, desire, and satisfaction, in addition to the shoulder function. Methods We did arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for 55 sexually active married individuals with rotator cuff tears. Shoulder and sexual function were assessed using: 1- the Constant-Murley score (CMS), 2- two visual analog scales (VAS) questionnaires, one to evaluate pain level during daily activities and the second to assess the pain level only during sexual activity, 3- Change in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ), 4- Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI) Questionnaire, 5- the Index of Sexual Satisfaction (ISS) Questionnaire, and 6- the study-specific short questionnaires. Assessment parameters were done before surgery and at 1 month (1M), 3 months (3M), 6 months (6M), 12 months (12M), 18 months (18M), and 24 months (24M) after surgery. Results Only 49 subjects were included in the final analysis (6 were excluded from the last follow-up). 77% of the study subjects found that their sexual life was affected by their shoulder condition, with 65% reporting that this was due to increased pain.75% needed to adjust their sexual position to accommodate their shoulder problem. 55% found that below the partner position is the most comfortable position during the sexual act. Additionally, we found a significant improvement over time in the CMS score, two VAS questionnaires, CSFQ, and ISS. Conclusion Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair improved shoulder function, pain level, sexual function, satisfaction, and mobility during sexual engagements. it did not affect the level of sexual desire.

Withdrawal and tolerance as related to compulsive sexual behavior disorder and problematic pornography use - Preregistered study based on a nationally representative sample in Poland.

The addiction model of compulsive sexual behavior disorder (CSBD) and problematic pornography use (PPU) predicts the presence of withdrawal symptoms and increased tolerance for sexual stimuli in the disorder phenotype. However, clear empirical evidence supporting this claim has largely been lacking. In the preregistered, nationally representative survey (n = 1,541, 51.2% women, age: M = 42.99, SD = 14.38), we investigated the role of self-reported withdrawal symptoms and tolerance with respect to CSBD and PPU severity. Bothwithdrawal and tolerance were significantly associated with the severities of CSBD (β = 0.34; P< 0.001 and β = 0.38; P < 0.001, respectively) and PPU (β = 0.24; P < 0.001 and β = 0.27; P<0.001, respectively). Of the 21 withdrawal symptom types investigated, the most often reported symptoms were frequent sexual thoughts that were difficult to stop (for participants with CSBD: 65.2% and with PPU: 43.3%), increased overall arousal (37.9%; 29.2%), difficult to control level of sexual desire (57.6%; 31.0%), irritability (37.9%; 25.4%), frequent mood changes (33.3%; 22.6%), and sleep problems (36.4%; 24.5%). Changes related to mood and general arousal noted inthe current study were similar to the cluster of symptoms in a withdrawal syndrome proposed forgambling disorder and internet gaming disorder in DSM-5. The study provides preliminary evidence on an understudied topic, and present findings can have significant implications for understanding the etiology and classification of CSBD and PPU. Simultaneously, drawing conclusions about clinical importance, diagnostic utility and detailed characteristics of withdrawal symptoms andtolerance as a part of CSBD and PPU, as well as other behavioral addictions, requires further research efforts.

Gebelik Sürecinin Evlilik Uyumuna ve Cinselliğe Etkisi

Objective: The study aimed to determine the relationship between the sexuality and marital adjustment of pregnant women and their husbands in pregnancy. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted with 120 pregnant women and their husbands. The data were collected using a participant information form, the Libido Scoring System (LSS) and Marital Adjustment Scale (MAS). Paired-samples t-test, and Spearman’s correlation analysis were used. Results: The mean LSS score in the men was found as 7.76±1.47 before pregnancy and 6.60±3.94 during pregnancy. While the same score was 9.85±1.41 before pregnancy among pregnant women, it decreased to 8.53±1.62 during pregnancy. LSS results proved good levels of sexual desire, and the decrease in the sexual desire levels during pregnancy was statistically significant for the pregnant women and their husbands (p=0.001; p=0.001). A positive relationship was found between the sexual desire levels of the pregnant women before and during pregnancy (p=0.000), and a negative one between their marital adjustment levels before and during pregnancy (p=0.003; p=0.013). The pregnant women were found significant and positive relationship between the marital adjustment levels before and during pregnancy (p=0.000). There was a positive relationship between the sexual desire levels of the husbands before and during pregnancy (p=0.001). Additionally, a strong positive relationship was found between the marital adjustment levels before and during pregnancy in the spouses (p=0.000). Conclusions: The case that the women and their husbands were healthy before pregnancy, in terms of sexual life and marital adjustment, had a positive effect on the pregnancy period.

Sexual Desire in the Time of COVID-19: How COVID-Related Stressors Are Associated with Sexual Desire in Romantic Relationships.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting social distancing measures have caused widespread social and economic disruptions, resulting in spikes in unemployment and financial instability, along with drastic changes to people's ability to feel socially connected. Many of the changes resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic are risk factors for depressive symptoms, which are associated with lower levels of sexual desire. The current research (N = 4,993) examined whether responses to external stressors brought on by COVID-19 (i.e., financial concern, worry, loneliness, stress) were associated with sexual desire among a multi-national sample of people in relationships (Studies 1–2), and whether this association was, in part, due to reports of depressive symptoms (Study 2). In the period immediately following the onset of the pandemic, more financial concern (Study 1) and worry (Study 2) were associated with higher sexual desire, while other factors, like stress (Studies 1–2), were associated with lower desire. We also followed a subset of participants every two weeks during the initial stages of the pandemic and at times when people reported greater stress, loneliness, financial strain, or worry than their average, they reported greater depressive symptoms, which was, in turn, associated with lower sexual desire. Results suggest that the social isolation and stress resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic have mixed associations with sexual desire at the onset of the pandemic. But over time, when people report heightened COVID-related stressors, they tend to report lower sexual desire for their partner, in part because these stressors are associated with more depressive symptoms.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10508-022-02365-w.

An empirical investigation of the roles of biological, relational, cognitive, and emotional factors in explaining sex differences in dyadic sexual desire

One challenge many marital couples face is that they experience discrepant levels of sexual desire for one another. Such discrepancies are particularly likely to arise in mixed-sex relationships because, at least in long-term relationships, men tend to have higher levels of sexual desire for their partner than do women. But what underlies this sex difference? We used a dyadic study of 100 mixed-sex community-based newlywed spouses to investigate the role of biological, relational, cognitive, and emotional factors in explaining sex differences in dyadic sexual desire for a long-term partner. Consistent with predictions, wives on average reported lower daily sexual desire for their spouse than did husbands. Moreover, individual differences in men’s and women’s levels of circulating testosterone explained this sex difference whereas relational (marital satisfaction, commitment), cognitive (sex-role identification, stress, self-esteem), and emotional (mood, depressive symptoms) factors did not. These findings advance our knowledge of factors that influence dyadic sexual desire and may have practical implications for treating relationship distress in mixed-sex marriages.

EFFECTS OF PREGNANCY ON FEMALE SEXUAL FUNCTION

Background/Aim: This study aimed to determine the effects of pregnancy on female sexual function. &#x0D; Material and Methods: This study was conducted in a descriptive manner. Data were collected through form developed by the researchers. The study was carried out in the prenatal polyclinic of a university hospital in Turkey. The sampling involved 179 women matching the study criteria according to power analysis. At the outset, ethics committee approval, written consent of the related institution and participating women were obtained.&#x0D; Results: It was determined that nearly half of the pregnant women had information about sex and that they received this information mostly from healthcare personnel (60.2%). A majority (58.7%) of the pregnant women stated that their pregnancies affected their sex life and that the first three factors influencing them were fear of miscarriage (59.1%), change in body image (36.2%), and hormonal change (30.5%). It was found that sexual desire level, the frequency of sexual intercourse, satisfaction, pain, stimulation level, orgasm, and vaginal lubrication were negatively affected compared to the period before pregnancy, and that the adverse conditions increased as the pregnancy progressed (p