Sexual Function Research Articles

Effectiveness of the Continuous Care Model on Quality of Life, Sexual Satisfaction and Function in Bladder Cancer Patients Undergoing Tumor Resection Surgery: A Randomized Control Trial.

Effectiveness of the Continuous Care Model on Quality of Life, Sexual Satisfaction and Function in Bladder Cancer Patients Undergoing Tumor Resection Surgery: A Randomized Control Trial.

Sexuality and age: Functioning and quality of life (QoL) in prostate cancer (PC) patients after surgery.

e17131 Background: QoL after radical prostatectomy (RP) may impact sexual functioning, with possible differences among age groups. Care management and ability to recognize risks favor the understanding of subjective well-being and Value-based Healthcare (VBHC), measured through PROMs (patient reported outcome measures). Understanding sexual changes between age groups can raise evidence for better understanding functionality and promote rehabilitation approaches. Methods: Prospective, longitudinal, observational, descriptive, quali-quantitative study that evaluated QoL and sexual function associated changes between age groups, before and after RP for PC. The descriptive and functional results were analyzed using data at baseline, 180 (T180) and 365 (T365) days after treatment (ttm), utilizing questions from EPIC26 “quality of your erections”, EORTC QLQ PR25 “use of erection-inducing medications” and Utilization of Sexual Medications/Devices “to what extent were you interested in sex”. Statistical analysis was performed SPSS 2024 software as well as correlation with age and sexual function. Results: Of the 330 patients (pts) followed, 143 were selected for the sample after completing 1 year of surgical ttm. Pathological tumor (pT) classification was ≤T2 in 95 (66%) and ≥T3 in 48 (33%). Fourteen pts (9.8%) needed salvage ttm. The postoperative PSA nadir assessment was <0.2 ng/ml 129 (90.2%), >0.2 ng/ml 10 (7%) and 4 (2.8%) missing pts. According to D’Amico classification, 17 (11.9%) pts presented low, 76 (53.1%) intermediate and 50 (35%) high risk. In quality of erections analysis at baseline, statistically significant differences were observed between age groups: <65, 47 (61%) with erections firm enough for sexual intercourse: and ≥65 years: 14 (73.7%) with erections not firm enough for any sexual activity (p=0.00). Erection medications use was associated with stratification by low and intermediate risk at the time of T365 in the age groups <65 years [26 (57.8%), p=0.07] and ≥65 years [27 (69.2%), p=0.00]. Interest in sex was associated with stratification by low and intermediate risk levels between baseline (p=0.02), T180 (p=0.01) and T365 (p=0.02) in the age group ≥65 years. Among the age group ≥65 years, non-compliance with salvage ttm was statistically distributed between those who reported using medications to aid erections (p=0.0) and those who reported being interested in sex (p=0.0). Conclusions: Age is a determining factor in recovery of sexual function after RP for PC. After 1 year, quality of erections was lower among pts in age group ≥65 years when compared to <65. However, we observed that interest in sex and use of medications that aid erection were present in the age group ≥65 years of those who did not undergo salvage ttm. Investing in early rehabilitation strategies and encouraging the use of therapies can be beneficial in both age groups, aiming better sexuality results.

Add-on effect of curcumin to dienogest in patients with endometriosis: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial.

Add-on effect of curcumin to dienogest in patients with endometriosis: a randomized, double-blind, controlled trial.

Impact of laparoscopic pudendal nerve decompression on quality of life in patients suffering from pudendal neuralgia caused by entrapment syndrome.

Impact of laparoscopic pudendal nerve decompression on quality of life in patients suffering from pudendal neuralgia caused by entrapment syndrome.

The impact of hysterectomy for benign uterine tumors on subsequent ovarian reserve, lower urinary tract symptoms, and sexual function: A prospective multidirectional short-term analysis.

To evaluate the effects of hysterectomy for benign uterine tumors on subsequent ovarian reserve, sexual function, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The present study was a prospective longitudinal analysis that recruited patients aged 35-45 years who underwent simple hysterectomy without oophorectomy for symptomatic benign uterine tumors. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and serum sex hormone profiles, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, progesterone, and total testosterone, were measured at four timepoints: before hysterectomy, and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Participants completed the following questionnaires at these timepoints: Urinary Distress Inventory (UDI-6), Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7), and Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence and Sexual Function Questionnaire (PISQ-12) short form. A total of 36 patients completed the study. Serum AMH levels significantly declined post-hysterectomy compared with preoperative levels. Both UDI-6 and IIQ-7 scores significantly decreased post-hysterectomy compared with preoperative scores. No differences were observed in serum FSH, LH, estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone levels before and after hysterectomy. No significant differences were found in the short form of PISQ-12 before and after hysterectomy. The present study demonstrated that simple hysterectomy with ovarian preservation had detrimental effects on ovarian reserves, whereas LUTS showed improvement. Furthermore, sexual dysfunction was not likely to occur within the first postoperative year.

How do health concerns present in cancer survivors who require interpreters? Database analysis of a structured survivorship clinic for early-stage cancer.

1632 Background: Cancer survivors (CS) of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds face disparities in care. We aimed to compare demographics and health concerns of CALD CS with non-CALD CS following completion of primary treatment. Methods: The Sydney Cancer Survivorship Centre (SCSC) database was analyzed to compare baseline differences in demographics and health concerns between early-stage CS of solid tumor or hematologic cancers requiring interpreters (CALD CS) during initial consultations to those who did not (non-CALD CS). Descriptive statistics were used to illustrate distribution by age, gender and tumour type. Survivors completed questionnaires on symptoms, quality of life (QoL), distress, exercise time and were assessed by a psychologist for fear of cancer recurrence (FCR). Univariate analyses were used to determine differences at presentation to the survivorship clinic between CALD and non-CALD groups. Results: From September 2013 to April 2024, 939 initial consultations (median 10.9 months from diagnosis) with consenting CS were conducted at SCSC. 15% (n = 137) required interpreters in 21 different languages (Mandarin (n = 48, 35%), Korean (n = 26, 19%) and Cantonese (n = 19, 14%)): 83 (61%) used professional interpreters, 25 (18%) family/friends. CALD CS were more likely to be female (58%), aged 40-64 (51%) and have colorectal cancer (55%). Common symptoms in CALD CS of at least moderate severity included fatigue (39%), numbness (32%), and pain (31%), not significantly different to non-CALD CS. Significantly lower proportions of CALD CS reported trouble concentrating (19 vs 29%, p = 0.023), hot flashes (14 vs 23%, p = 0.017) and problems with sexual function (12 vs 20%, p = 0.032). CALD CS were significantly more likely than non-CALD CS to report less minutes/week doing vigorous (13.2 vs 32.8; p < 0.001), moderate (32.3 vs 73.0; p < 0.001) and resistance exercise (4.6 vs 18.7; p < 0.001), but more light exercise (219.6 vs 115.5; p = 0.041). Mean global FACT-G QoL score for CALD CS was 77.4 (SD 20), with physical (mean 21.4, SD 6) and emotional (mean 17.6, SD 5) domains most impacted; these were not significantly different from non-CALD CS scores. There were no significant differences between groups in mean distress thermometer scores (3.09 vs 3.39/10; p = 0.288), rates of moderate-to-severe distress (36 vs 41%; p = 0.952) or rates of psychologist-assessed moderate-to-severe FCR (19 vs 28%; p = 0.228). Conclusions: CALD CS experience similar physical and psychosocial health concerns to non-CALD CS at initial survivorship clinic consultations but are less likely to report issues with sexual function, concentration and hot flashes, and are more likely to exercise less. Future work should focus on longitudinal effects and comparisons over time, with particular focus on addressing cultural sensitivities and increasing exercise intensity.

Effects of a sexual health enhancement program for women with breast cancer: A quasi-experimental study.

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a culturally adapted Sexual Health Enhancement (SHE) program, grounded in the Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestions, Intensive Therapy (PLISSIT) model, in addressing sexual health challenges in women with breast cancer. It examined the program's impacts on sexual function, distress, body image, marital intimacy, and sexual knowledge. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design included 50 married women diagnosed with breast cancer within five years post-mastectomy without reconstruction. Participants were divided into intervention (n = 24) and control (n = 26) groups. The intervention consisted of four weekly group sessions and phone consultations. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, one week, and five weeks posttest using validated tools. The intervention group showed significant improvements in sexual distress (F = 24.852, p < 0.001), body image (F = 25.887, p < 0.001), and sexual knowledge (F = 60.876, p < 0.001). Marital intimacy improved over time (F = 7.050, p = 0.011), but no significant group-by-time interaction was found (F = 0.478, p = 0.493). Sexual function showed no significant differences (F = 0.748, p = 0.391). The SHE program effectively improved sexual distress, body image, and knowledge in breast cancer survivors. Tailored interventions for body image and marital intimacy remain essential, and future research should explore digital solutions and spousal involvement to enhance outcomes.

Sexual behavior characteristics in breast cancer patients: NHANES study analysis.

e24071 Background: Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among women, excluding skin cancer, with one in eight women diagnosed in their lifetime in the United States. Advances in early detection have improved survival rates, yet many patients experience distressing symptoms and a decline in quality of life. Sexual health is often affected by both the cancer diagnosis and its treatment but remains inadequately addressed during routine follow-up care. Factors influencing sexual health include health, relationships, communication, sexual history, self-esteem, medications, and menopausal status. Understanding sexual health in breast cancer patients helps healthcare providers assess needs and promote comprehensive care. Methods: Used National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data 1999–2016 to identify females who completed the sexual behavior questionnaire, separating them by breast cancer status. Descriptive analyses calculated proportions of categorical variables. T-tests and ANOVA compared continuous variables, and chi-square tests compared categorical variables. Survey-weighted regressions evaluated associations. Statistical significance was defined as p &lt; 0.05. Results: 16,631 females without breast cancer and 245 with breast cancer. Breast cancer patients were older (56.5 vs 40.7 years, p &lt; 0.05) and higher rates of diabetes (13.5% vs 8.3%), hypertension (46.5% vs 26.4%), and smoking (45.6% vs 36.8%, p &lt; 0.05), more likely to have had a hysterectomy (32.6% vs 19.1%, p &lt; 0.05), used hormones (27.7% vs 15.2%, p &lt; 0.05), and total oophorectomy (23% vs 11.7%, p &lt; 0.05). Sexually active status was similar in both groups (96% vs 98%, p &lt; 0.05). Homosexual identity slightly higher breast cancer patients (13% vs 16%, p = 0.6). Mean lifetime male sex partners was higher for non breast cancer patients (18 vs 8.3, p = 0.5). Mean last year male partners was lower for breast cancer patients (3.6 vs 2, p &lt; 0.05). Mean female partners was higher for non breast cancer patients (9 vs 4, p &gt; 0.05). Age at first sexual intercourse similar (17.7 vs 18.7, p = 0.99). Genital herpes (5.1% vs 6.7%, p &gt; 0.5), genital warts (5.4% vs 4.5%, p = 0.7), gonorrhea (0.39% vs 0%, p = 0.9), and chlamydia (1.46% vs 0.75%, p = 0.7) rates were similar between the groups. Menopausal status and hormone use did not significantly affect lifetime male partners (p = 0.34). Sexual activity was lower in postmenopausal breast cancer patients (p &lt; 0.05). Hysterectomy status was associated with fewer male partners (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusions: Study highlights differences in sexual behavior between breast cancer and non-breast cancer patients. Breast cancer status impacts behaviors such as recent sexual partnerships but does not significantly affect lifetime partners or STI prevalence. The potential impact of surgical interventions on sexual health was noted. These findings emphasize the need to explore causal pathways linking sexual behavior, comorbidities, and breast cancer to better understand the impact on sexual function and quality of life.

Bioactivity guided identification of sexual function restorative constituents of Carpolobia lutea G. Don roots in paroxetine-induced sexual dysfunction male rats.

Bioactivity guided identification of sexual function restorative constituents of Carpolobia lutea G. Don roots in paroxetine-induced sexual dysfunction male rats.

ACTIVATE: A pilot randomized activity coaching trial to increase vitality and energy during post-operative pelvic radiation therapy for endometrial cancer.

TPS12147 Background: The ASCO-Society for Integrative Oncology guidelines strongly recommend exercise as a therapeutic strategy for cancer-related fatigue (CRF), advising that exercise regimens be tailored to each patient’s capabilities. Despite this broad endorsement, at least two-thirds of cancer patients are unable to adhere to the recommendation of exercise due to symptoms and barriers, with women being more likely than men to report barriers to adherence to exercise. There is a lack of data on how to effectively integrate exercise into the treatment regimens of pelvic radiation therapy (RT). Most studies focus on other cancer types or male patients, leaving a significant gap in the literature regarding female patients with gynecological malignancies. Given the high prevalence of CRF and its impact on QoL, interventions reducing fatigue are vital. The primary objective of the ACTIVATE pilot trial(NCT06746428)is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of conducting a randomized trial with an exercise coaching program as the intervention in this patient population. Secondary objectives include estimating preliminary efficacy of exercise coaching on fatigue and health-related quality of life, quantifying baseline fatigue levels in our patient population, assessing eligibility criteria suitability, and exploring behavioral mechanisms and variables influencing intervention strength. Methods: The study methods include randomization of immediate versus delayed intervention with attention-control of 16 women treated with total or modified radical hysterectomy and surgical staging for Stage I-IVA endometrial cancer and are planned to complete pelvic RT as part of their adjuvant treatment. The intervention is an exercise coaching program which will consist of weekly check-ins for 10 weeks with a certified oncology exercise coach with a goal to address readiness for exercise, identify barriers, and develop an individualized plan for exercise for each week with a goal of increasing activity to 150 minutes of moderate activity per week. The immediate-start group begins with the start of RT; the delayed-start group starts at 6-8 weeks post-RT. Participants will be asked to wear an activity monitor to track steps and moderate activity minutes, complete assessments of patient-reported fatigue (FACIT-Fatigue), bowel/urinary toxicity (EPIC), sexual function and satisfaction (PROMIS), and quality of life (PROMIS-29+2 Profile v2.1), and participate in a six-minute walk test (6MWT) at predefined time points throughout the study. Feasibility will be evaluated on a prior goal of 50% provider acceptability, 50% patient acceptability, 50% appropriateness of screening criteria, and 70% adherence to the coaching session and physical activity monitor. Enrollment began in January 2025 and accrual is expected to be complete within 6 months. Clinical trial information: NCT06746428 .

A randomised clinical trial to improve healthy lifestyle adherence in prostate cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy (Microstyle study).

5105 Background: The standard non-surgical approach for localized Prostate Cancer (PCa) is radiotherapy (RT) but PCa patients may experience worsening of bowel disorders affecting quality of life and attributable to RT. The main aim of the study was to examine whether personalized dietary and physical activity counselling, provided at the start of RT, improves adherence to a healthy lifestyle, according to the standardised WCRF/AICR score 1 that assists clinicians in providing evidence-based recommendations to reduce risk of morbidity and improve quality of life in cancer patients. Methods: We designed a randomized controlled cross-over trial with two arms – MicroStyle 2 : an intervention (IG) and a control (CG) group, which were enrolled at the start of RT and followed for six months (T6) and 12 months (T12) respectively. Clinical data, questionnaires and circulating biomarkers were collected at two Italian Cancer Centres (Milan and Naples) on different time points. Linear regression models and logistic models were applied to estimate differences by arms in the WCRF/AICR score and its association with toxicity and circulating biomarkers. Results: Of the 308 patients enrolled, 299 completed the baseline evaluation, and 286 completed the six-month follow-up. The intervention showed at T6 a greater WCRF adherence compared to the CG: change from baseline 0.2 95%CI: 0.03, 0.36, p =0.02 IG vs CG) adjusting for baseline. The proportion of adherent subjects significantly increase at T6 with IG (26% vs 19%, P=0.04) and at T12 (28% vs 13%, P=0.01) more than CG. A high WCRF score at T6 was found to be associated with a significantly reduced rectal toxicity (P=0.03). IG at T12 was associated with lower Testosterone (P=0.04) and lower Estradiol (P=0.02) adjusting for hormonal therapy and baseline values. Patients with WCRF improvement were associated with lower IL6 and higher adiponectin Improvement of WCRF adherence is significantly associated with improvement in quality of life (P=0.04, IPSS) and prostate symptom (p=0.05, IPSS), sexual function (P=0.01, IIEF) and in particular erectile dysfunction (P=0.03, IIEF) and functional assessment of cancer therapy (P=0.01, FACT-P), adjusting for baseline values. Conclusions: This innovative trial showed that that a personalized dietary and physical activity counselling during RT significantly improves adherence to a healthy lifestyle, influencing rectal toxicity and circulating biomarkers. Future analyses will explore the toxicity associated with RT, changes in microbiome and its potential interactions with lifestyle factors. Funding: This study is funded by Italian Ministry of Health, Ricerca Finalizzata 2019 (RF-2019-12368771). ClincalTrial.gov registration number: NCT05155618. 1) https://epi.grants.cancer.gov/wcrf-aicr-score/details.html. 2) Gnagnarella, BMC Cancer (2022) doi s12885-022-09521-4 . Clinical trial information: NCT05155618 .

Management of Adverse Effects in Testosterone Replacement Therapy.

This narrative review aims to provide the most updated knowledge regarding the treatment of adverse effects secondary to testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), such as gynecomastia, cardiovascular and hematologic risks, prostate health risk, and liver dysfunction risks. An extensive literature review was conducted, incorporating guidelines from the American Urological Association and the Endocrine Society. The studies determined common adverse effects and their most common methods of management. TRT improves the quality of life, sexual function, and mood in hypogonadal men. Possible adverse effects associated with TRT include increased estrogen levels and gynecomastia, which are usually managed with aromatase inhibitors and tamoxifen. Cardiovascular risks from TRT include hypertension and erythrocytosis, which mandate periodic hematocrit and blood pressure monitoring; therapeutic phlebotomy is indicated if the hematocrit exceeds 52%. No significant concern regarding prostate cancer has been observed in the closely monitored patient. However, TRT should not be administered to individuals with active evidence of untreated prostate cancer, except under rare circumstances such as active surveillance for very low-risk disease. Older oral forms of TRT can affect liver function; therefore, transdermal, newer oral forms and injectables are generally favored in men with a history of liver disease. Monitoring and management of adverse effects are critical to maximize benefit and minimize the risks of TRT. Ongoing research will further elucidate the safety of TRT while advancing evidence-based practices in managing its associated adverse effects. Effective patient education and counseling are also essential to improve compliance and treatment outcomes.

Effects of nestorone, a progesterone receptor agonist, on neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury and reproductive functions in male and female rats.

Effects of nestorone, a progesterone receptor agonist, on neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury and reproductive functions in male and female rats.

Hyaluronic acid injection to treat symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: A 12-week randomised, placebo-controlled, multicentric study.

Hyaluronic acid injection to treat symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: A 12-week randomised, placebo-controlled, multicentric study.

Prevalence of sexual dysfunction among men with cancer before the initiation of systemic treatment.

12049 Background: Sexual health significantly impacts the quality of life, yet its relationship with systemic cancer treatments in men remains underexplored, particularly outside prostate cancer-focused studies. In Brazil, the prevalence of moderate to complete sexual dysfunction among men is approximately 14.5%. This prospective cohort study conducted at a Brazilian Cancer Center evaluated the prevalence of sexual dysfunction before the initiation of systemic therapy in men diagnosed with solid tumors using the Male Sexual Quotient (MSQ) tool. Methods: Sexually active, treatment-naïve male patients with solid tumors were enrolled, excluding those with prostate cancer, active brain metastases, spinal compression, or prior pelvic irradiation/extensive pelvic surgery for rectal or bladder cancer. Baseline sexual function was assessed using the MSQ, which evaluates five domains: premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, hypoactive sexual desire, orgasm frequency, and dissatisfaction with sexual activity. An MSQ global score ≤60 defined moderate to complete sexual dysfunction. Hormonal profiles, including testosterone, FSH, and LH, were measured. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to identify risks of anxiety or depression. All participants provided informed consent, and the local ethics committee approved the protocol. Results: Between October 2023 and December 2024, 73 male patients were recruited (median age 58 years, IQR 47.5–68.0); 78% were married, and 75% had an ECOG performance status of 0. At diagnosis, 34% presented with metastasis, including 19% with visceral involvement. Primary cancer sites included head and neck (25%), colorectal (19.1%), lung (15%), melanoma (8.2%), and kidney (8.2%). Treatment regimens comprised chemotherapy (76%), immunotherapy (31.5%), and targeted therapy (9.5%). Most patients (83%) had no risk of anxiety or depression per HADS, with one patient showing a high risk. Moderate to complete sexual dysfunction was observed in 22.2% of patients, higher than the general Brazilian male population. The most affected domains were hypoactive sexual desire, premature ejaculation, and erectile dysfunction. Despite these findings, median hormone levels were within the normal range: testosterone (356 ng/dL, IQR 300–468), FSH (64 mIU/mL, IQR 29–93), and LH (39 mIU/mL, IQR 28–52). Conclusions: The prevalence of moderate to complete sexual dysfunction was 22.2% in this cohort. This rate is higher than that observed in the general male population in Brazil. The evaluation of sexual quality of life in men with cancer undergoing systemic treatment is often overlooked. This data points to the need to develop new policies and studies to increase awareness about this critical issue.

Enhancing Sexual Health for Cancer Survivors.

Changes to sexual function after cancer treatment are extremely prevalent, affecting up to 90% of female patients with cancer and 40%-85% of male patients with cancer. Sexual health concerns include low libido, genitourinary syndrome of menopause, dyspareunia, erectile dysfunction (ED), hypogonadism, body image concerns, and impacts on intimate relationships. Given the significant impact of sexual dysfunction on quality of life, oncology professionals should integrate sexual health discussions into routine patient care, regardless of the patient's age, sex, or cancer type. Sexuality is best understood in a biopsychosocial framework and cancer treatments including chemotherapy, surgery, radiation, and endocrine therapy can affect all of these domains. Management of genitourinary syndrome of menopause includes nonhormonal and low-dose local hormonal options. Pelvic floor dysfunction and vaginal stenosis can be treated with pelvic floor physical therapy and use of vaginal dilator therapy. ED can be treated with phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and if needed, interventions such as intracavernosal injection of vasoactive agents, urethral suppositories, vacuum erection devices, and surgical implants are available. Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and androgen-deprivation therapy can lead to hypogonadism in men, which can be treated with testosterone therapy, unless contraindicated. Psychosocial counseling, sex therapy, and couples counseling are options for impact to sexual response, body image, and relationship concerns. A comprehensive, patient-centered approach to sexual health can help improve outcomes and overall well-being for cancer survivors.

Effect of attitudes towards sexuality on sexual function of pregnant women: A cross-sectional study

Effect of attitudes towards sexuality on sexual function of pregnant women: A cross-sectional study

A Prospective Study of the Impact of Persistent Nocturnal Enuresis on Female Sexual Function

A Prospective Study of the Impact of Persistent Nocturnal Enuresis on Female Sexual Function

Correction to: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) used to assess sexual functioning in prostate cancer patients: a systematic review of psychometric properties

Correction to: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) used to assess sexual functioning in prostate cancer patients: a systematic review of psychometric properties

Sexual problems among a representative sample of Australian men who have experienced physical and emotional intimate partner abuse

Abstract Background The experiences of being emotionally and physically abused by a romantic partner are associated with several deleterious outcomes including poor mental health, being sexually assaulted, and partner homicide. Aim To explore the roles of emotional and physical abuse in relation to men’s sexual functioning. Methods The sample comprised 5642 Australian men (Mage = 45.87 years, SD = 12.36) who completed Wave 4 (2022) of the Australian Longitudinal Study on Male Health: Ten to Men (T2M). As part of the T2M survey, participants completed questions relating to physical and emotional intimate partner abuse, and the National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles – Sexual Function subscale (Natsal-SF). Hierarchical binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to explore whether experiences of abuse in romantic relationships predicted the likelihood of sexual dysfunction in Australian men. Outcomes The variance in sexual dysfunction explained by men’s experiences of physical and emotional abuse over and above the variance explained by relevant covariates. Results The analyses showed that, after controlling for several covariates, physical abuse was not associated with any physio-psychological aspects of sexual dysfunction. However, emotional abuse was significantly associated with all aspects of physio-psychological functioning except for reaching climax more quickly than the man would have liked and experiencing pain as a result of sex. Clinical Implications The results have important implications for relationship therapy and intimacy counselling, with greater awareness of how emotional abuse impacts sexual functioning providing valuable insight for men and their partners. Strengths and Limitations The study used data from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Male Health, which sourced data from a nationally representative sample of Australian men. A potential limitation is that individual Natsal-SF items were used in lieu of the total score, and thus the same variance may be explained in multiple analyses. Conclusion The results suggest that emotional abuse is more damaging to male sexual functioning than physical abuse.