Sexual Activity Research Articles

The Impact of Communication on Sexual Response: A Summary of Findings

This paper examines how sexual communication impacts both sexual desire and sexual satisfaction. The purpose is to assist clinicians in understanding how these components of human sexuality interrelate so that they may use these findings to inform their clinical practice and improve outcomes for clients. Key dimensions of effective sexual communication are explored, and how those dimensions interact with experiences of sexual desire and sexual satisfaction. Consideration is given to the additional factors of relationship satisfaction and non-sexual communication and how these may mediate the relationship between sexual communication, desire, and satisfaction. The need for further research in this area outside of heterosexual and monogamous relationships is emphasized. Implications for practice highlight the importance of clinicians being able to screen for sexual communication skills in their clients, and upskill accordingly, particularly when issues of sexual desire and satisfaction are present, to enhance clinical outcomes.

Modern contraceptive utilization among street beggar women in the Sidama region of Ethiopia using bayesian model approach

IntroductionContraceptive methods are techniques used to prevent pregnancy during sexual intercourse. The primary goal of contraception is to inhibit the fertilization of an egg by sperm or to prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus. Unwanted pregnancy is a major challenge for street beggar women. Due to limited use of modern contraception, unwanted pregnancy and STDs are key issues faced by this population. This study aims to assess modern contraceptive utilization and explore factors influencing contraceptive choices among street beggar women in the Sidama region, Ethiopia by using Bayesian logistic approaches.MethodsA cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted on reproductive-aged (15–49) street beggar women in the Sidama Region. Data was collected using a pre-tested, structured interview questionnaire in the local language from each town in the Sidama region. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data using STATA version 17. A Bayesian logistic approach, with Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods, was used to model the association between modern contraceptive utilization and independent variables, allowing for estimation of model parameters and credible intervals.ResultThe study found that 38.9% of street women in the Sidama region used modern contraceptives, primarily implants and injections. Bayesian logistic regression identified key factors influencing contraceptive use including, women aged 25–34 (AOR: 2.69 (95% CI: 1.57, 4.26)), married women (AOR: 4.91 (95% CI: 2.67, 8.51)), Widowed women (AOR: 2.81 (95% CI: 1.49)) and educated women (AOR: 2.16 (95% CI: 1.48, 3.01)) were more likely to use contraceptives. In contrast, those living on the street (AOR: 0.12 (95% CI: 0.05, 0.27)), with no history of pregnancy (AOR: 0.07 (95% CI: 0.02, 0.16)), and no sexual activity in the last six months (AOR: 0.11 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.03)), had lower usage rates. Additionally, women whose only job was begging (AOR: 0.43 (95% CI: 0.13, 0.92)) and those lacking health advice (AOR: 0.25 (95% CI: 0.07, 0.59)) also showed reduced utilization. Lack of discussion about contraceptives with partners (AOR: 0.18 (95% CI: 0.08, 0.33)) and no women's approval (AOR: 0.18 (95% CI: 0.08, 0.33)) further contributed to lower usage. Conversely, good knowledge of modern contraceptives was positively associated with utilization (AOR: 2.33 (95% CI: 1.44, 3.64)).ConclusionThe findings of this study identified several factors significantly associated with modern contraceptive use among street beggar women in the Sidama region, including age, marital status, Education level, disability, Job in addition to begging, Current living situation, history of sexual assault/rape, History of pregnancy after street life, discussion of modern contraception with a sexual partner, Advice from a health professional, Sexual activity in the last six months, time taken to arrive at a health facility on foot, approval of modern contraception, and knowledge. The main barriers reported were fear of side effects and lack of knowledge about contraceptive methods. The study suggests that concerned stakeholders should intervene to address these factors and improve modern contraceptive uptake in this vulnerable population.

Intraminority Gay Community Stress and Coping Responses Among Gay and Bisexual Men in Taiwan

ABSTRACT A proportion of gay and bisexual men (GBM) experience worse mental health when they encounter stress from problems within the gay community. This qualitative study examined the dominant standards held in the gay community in Taiwan, the intraminority-community stress experienced by GBM, and the strategies that GBM adopt to cope with such stress. Data from open and in-depth interviews with 26 GBM were subject to reflexive thematic analysis. The results found that appearance, sexual satisfaction, wealth and social status, being a member of gay groups, and youth were valued in the gay community in Taiwan. These standards resulted in a variety of stress responses, including concerns about not fitting in, diminished self-confidence, feelings of frustration due to unattainable standards and challenges in interpersonal relationships. The strategies adopted to cope with such stress involved acceptance and adherence, passive acceptance, rational thinking and critique, mental resilience, mutual support, and efforts to question and challenge norms. Our findings can provide mental health professionals with key insights into the intraminority gay community stress and coping responses in GBM.

Exploring intimacy and family planning in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: a qualitative study

Background Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), comprising ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, have a profound impact on people’s lives. This study aims to investigate the perceived impact of IBD on sexual life and family planning to enhance understanding of the interplay between IBD, sexuality, intimacy and family planning to foster a better quality of life for those living with the condition. Materials and methods The study used the qualitative DIPEx method (Database of Personal Experiences of Health and Illness) developed by the Health Experiences Research Group at the University of Oxford, standardized for the Czech Republic. Semi-structured interviews with 36 participants (19 with Crohn’s disease, 17 with ulcerative colitis) were conducted, employing open coding and thematic analysis. The maximum variation sampling was utilized, considering various factors, such as disease stage, medications, treatments, age, age at diagnosis and sociodemographic characteristics. Results Five main topics emerged: sexual activity, body image and discomfort, partner relationships, family planning, and the role of gastroenterologists in family planning decisions. Participants’ perceptions of sexuality varied, with some experiencing reduced sexual activity during acute phases of the disease. IBD had contrasting effects on partner relationships, and family planning was an important concern, with women valuing support and collaboration with their gastroenterologists in making pregnancy decisions. Information dissemination and open communication from professionals are highly needed. Conclusions This is the first study concerning the sexuality and family planning of people with IBD in the Czech Republic. It highlights the need for information and open communication from professionals.

ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ ЭРЕКТИЛЬНОЙ ДИСФУНКЦИИ У МУЖЧИН С БЕСПЛОДИЕМ: РАСПРОСТРАНЕННОСТЬ И ФАКТОРЫ

The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED), psychoemotional disorders and sexual activity in men with primary and secondary infertility. Materials and methods. The study was conducted from May 2023 to March 2024 at the Republican Urology Center in Makhachkala and included 57 eligible men divided into primary (n = 38) and secondary (n = 19) infertility groups. Participants completed anonymous questionnaires that included a fertility score, the International Erectile Function Index (IIEF-5), the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7). Results. It was found that men with secondary infertility were more likely to show erectile dysfunction and had lower sexual satisfaction compared to men in the primary group, although no significant differences in the frequency of sexual acts were observed. The PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores also showed comparable results for both groups. Conclusions. The study identified a need for a comprehensive approach in the treatment of men with infertility that takes into account both physical and psychological aspects. This may include medication and emotional support to improve quality of life and successful conception in couples facing this problem.

Marriage under Muslim Law

Marriage under Islam is a matrimonial relation and an institution that legalises the sexual activities between a male and female for the object of procreation of kids, promotion of love, mutual support, and creation of families, which are considered essential units in a society.

New Non‐Invasive Approach for a Woman With Dyssynergic Defecation Associated With Dyspareunia: A Case Report

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe pelvic floor muscles are a complicated muscular structure with three major functions: defecation, urination, and sexual function. Constipated patients rarely have sexual or urinary complaints. The objective of this case is to provide a new and successful therapy strategy for a patient with dyssynergic defection and dyspareunia.Study DesignThe case study below discusses physical therapy rehabilitation and the consequences for both current and future physical therapy programs of constipation caused by PFM dyssynergia and dyspareunia.Case DescriptionA 22‐year‐old married nulliparous woman was referred by her urogynecologist for the management of PFM tightness, with the main complaints being pain during intercourse and chronic constipation. The diagnosis had been confirmed by MR defecography, which revealed puborectalis and external anal muscle tightness. Neuromuscular reeducation employing electromyography biofeedback, improved rectal sensation, intravagival massage, the application of an intermittent pneumatic compression belt on the abdominiopelvic region, and suprapubic water bag ultrasound therapy were among the pelvic floor rehabitation strategies.ConclusionThe intermittent pneumatic compression belt and water bag ultrasound approach, combined with standard program rehabitation, was successfully used in patients with defection dyssynergia and dyspareunia. After 3 weeks, stool frequency decreased from once every 10 days to one bowel movement per week; a condition reported less bloating and stomach pain, as well as a pain rating of 5/10 during sexual activity and 0/10 immediately afterward; and FSFI increased from 15.1 to 19.1. After 12 weeks, stool frequency is three bowel movements per week, a condition has less bloating and stomach discomfort and rates pain as 1/10 during sexual activity and 0/10 immediately, and FSFI has risen from 15.1 to 25.1.

Development and Validation of a Measure of the Resolution Phase of the Sexual Response Cycle: The Sexual Resolution Scale (SRS)

ABSTRACT We developed and validated a measure of the depth of the resolution experience – the Sexual Resolution Scale (SRS). Portuguese-speaking participants responded to an online survey including the SRS whose eight items were derived from the literature on post-sex states: 1) deeply relaxed, 2) with elevated heart rate, 3) with intensified emotions, 4) more aware of body, 5) in a profound peace, 6) more imaginative, 7) more predisposed to talk about emotionally charged topics, 8) more predisposed to listen to emotionally charged topics. They also reported the intensity of satisfaction, desire, arousal, and orgasm, during the last sexual activity, and completed the Perceived Relationship Quality Components Inventory, and the Female Sexual Function Index or the International Index of Erectile Function. Principal Component Analysis and Confirmatory Factor Analysis revealed two dimensions: Internal Experience (items 1 to 6) and Openness to Communication (items 7 and 8). The two dimensions had good reliability. Invariance was confirmed between women and men. Nomological validity evidence was demonstrated: the two dimensions correlated with better sexual function during the last sexual activity and over the past 4 weeks. The SRS appears to be usable to measure the enjoyable aspects of the resolution phase of sexual intercourse.

Sexual Functions in Men with Congenital Bilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Study with Fertile Men.

To examine the sexual and psychological conditions of men with Bilateral Congenital Bilateral Absence of the Vas Deferens (CBAVD), a rare condition that contributes to male infertility, and compare it with healthy fertile men. A total of 52 patients with CBAVD and 66 healthy, fertile men who attended our infertility and andrology clinic were included in the study. Patients with cognitive impairments, language barriers, significant comorbidities, or a history of urogenital surgery were excluded. Reproductive hormone levels and semen volumes were evaluated. In addition, sexual status was investigated with validated questionnaires such as the International Index of Erectile Function, Male Sexual Health Questionnaire, Arabic Index of Premature Ejaculation, Premature Ejaculation Diagnostic Tool, and Premature Ejaculation Profile. In the CBAVD group, median total testosterone, FSH, LH levels, and semen volume were 401 ng/dL, 3.9 mIU/ml, 3.9 mIU/ml, and 0.9 ml, respectively. These parameters were 376 (ng/dL), 4.8 mIU/ml, 5 mIU/ml, and 3 ml in the control group. Semen volume was significantly lower in CBAVD men (p< 0.001). Questionnaires assessing erectile and ejaculatory function have shown that there was no significant difference between the CBAVD and control groups in terms of erectile function, orgasmic function, and sexual relationship satisfaction. However, sexual desire (p=0.006) and overall satisfaction (p=0.028) were found to be higher in the CBAVD group. The study suggests that CBAVD may not be a direct etiological factor for erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.

IMPLANTES DENTÁRIOS INSTALADOS EM PACIENTES PORTADORES DO VIRUS DA IMUNODEFICIENCIA HUMANA (HIV)

The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) compromises the immune system and, as it progresses, causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), characterized by the emergence of opportunistic infections. Transmission occurs mainly through sexual contact or via blood and, in Brazil, between 1980 and 2022, more than 1 million cases of AIDS were recorded. Regarding implantology, patients with HIV face oral complications such as gingivitis and candidiasis, and although the impact of osseointegrated implants in these patients is not yet entirely clear, prior evaluation of bone health and conditions is essential. This research aims to describe the care in the osseointegration process in HIV-positive patients, investigating the possible complications and the importance of biosafety, in addition to highlighting the relevance of treatment to improve the quality of life of these patients. The methodology used was the bibliographic review, using articles published between 2012 and 2022 in Portuguese. Oral rehabilitation with dental implants in HIV-positive patients has gained importance due to the increase in life expectancy provided by antiretroviral therapy. These patients, with an improved quality of life, are looking for viable options to replace missing teeth, with dental implants being an attractive alternative. Although the literature on the topic is limited, the results indicate that the success rates of implants in patients with HIV are similar to those of healthy patients, as long as the treatment considers the immune status. However, specific care is needed, such as monitoring for possible complications resulting from the continuous use of antiretrovirals, which can cause liver and kidney problems. Additionally, strict biosafety protocols are essential to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare providers. Further research is recommended to clarify outstanding issues and improve pre- and postoperative care, providing more predictable outcomes and greater safety in treatment with osseointegrated implants.

INCIDÊNCIA DE PAPILOMAVÍRUS HUMANO EM MULHERES EM SÃO PAULO NO ANO DE 2018 A 2021

HPV is the acronym for the Human Papillom Virus, which is a virus that can cause cervical cancer, in addition to other diseases. It is transmitted by sexual contact and is very common among young and sexually active adults. There are more than 100 types of HPV, most infections without manifestations of symptoms and resolve spontaneously, while others can cause warts on the skin and mucous membranes. Some strains account for about 70% of cervical cancer cases. In addition, HPV may also increase the risk of cancer, such as cancer of the anus, penis, vulva, vagina and oropharynx. HPV affects many people in society, especially young people. Women discovering the disease late can lead to serious health complications. Therefore, it is crucial to invest in studies for diagnosis and treatment prevention for better quality of life. The media is the main factor of awareness of this disease. Identifying the places of higher incidence can contribute to care programs for prevention and treatment, so that in the long term the rates of the disease can become reduced.

Exploring friends with benefits: a review of research and insights from the Polish context

Introduction and Objective :"Friends with benefits" relationships (FWBR) are becoming increasingly common. Defined as friendships involving sexual activity without romantic commitment, FWBRs blur the boundaries between friendship and romance. The aim of this article is to gather the most up-to-date information on "friends with benefits" relationships.Review Methods: A review of studies available on the PubMed platform (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) was conducted, including articles with free full-text access that used the keywords: “friends with benefits relationship”, “friends with benefits,” "FWB," and "FWBR."Brief Description of the State of Knowledge: Many individuals involved in friends with benefits relationships establish their own rules, and one surprising trend is the frequent observance of sexual exclusivity. Research on the prevalence of FWBRs has focused largely on students in the USA, but there is limited data on FWBRs in Poland, where they appear to be rising in popularity, influenced by dating sites and population migrations. Studies indicate that men, residents of larger cities, and less religious individuals are more likely to participate in FWBRs.Summary: FWBRs offer a unique dynamic where individuals can avoid the emotional commitments and negative traits of traditional romantic relationships. However, these relationships also present challenges, such as differing expectations between the partners and the societal stigma that may be associated with them.

Stigma and Sexual Dissatisfaction in Middle-Aged and Older Sexual Minorities.

High sexual quality and activity predict psychological well-being in heterosexual middle-aged and older adults; however, these associations have not been documented in sexual minorities, who have faced lifelong stigma concerning their sexuality. This paper presents data from two secondary studies that explored the benefits of being sexually active and satisfied and the role of internalized homonegativity in a sample of middle-aged and older sexual minorities. Study 1 was a cross-sectional survey collected on 91 sexually active sexual minorities (ages 40-80) in same-sex relationships. Study 2 was a cross-sectional survey collected on 235 single and partnered sexual minorities (ages 40-90), which included sexually active (N = 101) and inactive (N = 134) participants. In Study 1, sexual satisfaction was associated with higher psychological well-being and dissatisfaction was more prominently associated with lower psychological well-being. In Study 2, we found that the sexually active participants had higher levels of psychological well-being, in addition to corroborating the Study 1 findings. Additionally, we also determined that sexual dissatisfaction was a mediator between internalized homonegativity and psychological well-being. These findings accentuate the benefits of retaining high sexual quality and activity for middle-aged and older sexual minorities. Although there are apparent advantages of being sexually satisfied, the relationship to psychological well-being is stronger and more of a concern for those who are dissatisfied, which is rooted in internalized homonegativity. These results can guide practitioners working with middle-aged and older sexual minorities to help them achieve successful aging trajectories by reducing their internalized homonegativity and promoting higher sexual quality.

The Effect of Big Five on Sexual Satisfaction - Gender Difference

Abstract: Satisfaction in intimate relationship is a significant area of interest for many adults in contemporary society. Some researchers have found that personality and sexual satisfaction determine marital satisfaction. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of recent studies elucidating how personality affects sexual satisfaction differently between genders among unmarried young Chinese adults. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the link between the Big Five personality and sexual satisfaction in this demographic. The researcher collected the data through quantitative research by distributing the questionnaire among young adults in China, with ages between 18-28 years old, and obtained 161 respondents. The data was statistically tested by using the SPSS v29. The findings showed Conscientiousness is the solely personality dimension in Big Five personality that significantly positively correlated with sexual satisfaction, and Conscientiousness does not significantly predict sexual satisfaction for both males and females. The present study provides evidences for the understanding of the relation between personality and sexual satisfaction.

Associations of vasectomy with sexual dysfunctions and the sex life of middle-aged men.

Vasectomy is a safe and effective form of contraception. However, fear of altered sexual function is still associated with vasectomy in many men. To assess the prevalence of vasectomy among middle-aged men in Germany and to investigate possible associations between a previous vasectomy and sexual dysfunctions. Data on lifestyle, sexual activity, satisfaction, and dysfunction from 5425 middle-aged, heterosexual men were collected. Differences between vasectomized (VM) and non-vasectomized men (NVM) were assessed. Multiple logistic regression analyses were calculated to determine variables associated with erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation (PE), and low libido. 5425 men with a mean age of 50.6±0.8 years were included in this analysis. Vasectomy was performed in 12.5% (679/5425) on average 8.6±5.8 years ago. 84.4% were sexually active in the last 3 months (93.0% in vasectomized men vs. 83.2% in non-vasectomized men; p<0.001), and 45.4% were satisfied with their sexual life (55.2% in vasectomized men vs. 44.0% in non-vasectomized men; p<0.001). The prevalence of erectile dysfunction was significantly lower in vasectomized men (12.1%vs. 20.1%; p<0.001), and a previous vasectomy was associated with a decreased risk for erectile dysfunction in multivariable regression analysis (OR: 0.65 [0.40-0.83]). The prevalence of low libido (4.7% in vasectomized men vs. 7.1% in non-vasectomized men; p=0.02) was marginally higher among non-vasectomized men. The prevalence of premature ejaculation (7.1% in vasectomized men vs. 6.1% in non-vasectomized men, p=0.5) did not differ significantly between vasectomized and non-vasectomized men. A previous vasectomy is not associated with an increased risk for sexual dysfunction, and vasectomized middle-aged men are more sexually active and satisfied compared to their non-vasectomized counterparts. The main limitations are the retrospective design and missing pre-vasectomy data. Men can be reassured that the fear of sexual dysfunctions and diminished sex life after a vasectomy is unwarranted.

Lived experience of male spouses of poly cystic ovarian syndrome diagnosed females: An exploratory study

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous clinical entity leading to development of metabolic, endocrine, and reproductive disorder. Obesity lowers the chances of successful conception and even lowers the success rate of assisted reproduction technique cycles, and this is a major concern for young couples and females in their prime reproductive age. But there are also studies also which shows reduces quality of life and sexual satisfaction and life satisfaction in females with PCOD. Hence, we should also consider the other partner in couples diagnosed with PCOD. Thus, when looking into the family dynamics of PCOD diagnosed females, psychological wellbeing of their husband should also be equally studied as their emotions are highly influenced by their wife’s mental wellbeing. Even after biological treatment of PCOD, their psychological distress persists, and can may hinder their future quality of life. The objective of the study was to explore the experience of male spouse of clinically PCOS diagnosed females. The study was a phenomenological qualitative research design, with researcher-developed guiding questions to help direct interviews. The data was collected using purposive sampling from hospitals based on the inclusion criteria of the study. 6 participants were finally selected based on these criteria and saturation point was attained for the study by then. The findings of the study was 3 major themes were discovered, which were Awareness about PCOS, perception of husbands on PCOS and perception of women. 9 subthemes were also discovered under these themes. Implications of the study was more awareness should be given to both male and female population about the disorder and also encouraging men to talk more about their mental health.

Uptake and acceptability of oral HIV self-testing in the context of assisted partner services in Western Kenya: A mixed-methods analysis.

Integrating HIV self-testing (HIVST) into assisted partner services (APS) has potential to increase identification of people with HIV in the community, but little is known about acceptability of HIVST among partners traced via APS. We assessed characteristics of APS partners testing with HIVST, and factors influencing HIVST uptake and acceptability in a cluster-randomized control trial on APS+HIVST. Using convergent parallel mixed-methods design, we evaluated socio-demographic and behavioral characteristics of APS partners who were offered HIVST or provider-delivered testing, and purposively selected a sub-set of partners for in-depth interviews (IDIs). Descriptive and log-binomial regression analyses were performed controlling for health facility clusters, while IDIs were thematically analyzed applying the theoretical framework of acceptability. Among 3312 partners who were offered HIVST or provider-administered testing through APS, 2724 (82.2%) used HIVST. There was no association between partner demographics and HIVST uptake. HIVST use was less likely than provider-delivered testing among those identified as a casual (adjusted relative risk (aRR) = 0.93; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.88-0.98) or transactional (aRR = 0.90; 95% CI 0.87-0.94) partner compared to those in a defined relationship. HIVST use was slightly lower among those offered the option of an additional kit when compared to those only offered one kit (aRR = 0.93; 95% CI 0.88-0.98). In the IDIs (N = 24), partners reported that HIVST was a viable option for individuals who do not find provider-delivered testing suitable or convenient. For the APS partners, 'intervention coherence', 'self-efficacy', and 'ethicality' presented as most significant theoretical framework of acceptability constructs. APS providers played a critical role in creating HIVST awareness and driving acceptability. Increasing HIVST awareness and providing tailored solutions will empower APS clients optimize their HIV testing decisions. Providers should consider context of the partner's sexual encounter and extend counselling support when recommending HIVST within APS.

Adolescents' Knowledge and Misconceptions About Sexually Transmitted Infections: A Cross-Sectional Study in Middle School Students in Portugal.

Background/Objectives: Adolescence represents a period of heightened vulnerability to risky sexual behaviours. In Portugal, adolescents are initiating sexual activity at increasingly younger ages, making it relevant to characterise their knowledge about sexually transmitted diseases and prevention methods at an earlier stage of their development. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted involving the application of a questionnaire to 750 ninth-grade students from Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto, Portugal. The questionnaire covered topics such as perceptions of sexuality, knowledge of sexuality and STIs, methods of transmission prevention, and sources of information. Results: The mean age was 14.4 years, with 19.9% reporting having already initiated sexual activity. Overall, the knowledge about sexually transmitted infections was low, with a score of 7.08 out of a maximum score of 18. Condoms and immunisation were well-recognised preventive measures, but many misconceptions persisted. Better knowledge is associated with better attitudes regarding the likelihood of having sexual intercourse. Conclusions: This study reveals adolescents' limited knowledge about sexually transmitted infections, misconceptions about prevention, and reliance on peers and the internet over trusted sources, highlighting the need for comprehensive sexual education in middle school.

Open relationships – challenges and dilemmas

Introduction and objective: Consensual non-monogamy (CNM) refers to various relationship types in which at least one partner, with the other’s consent, forms sexual and/or emotional connections with other people. In open relationships, partners are allowed to engage sexually with others, but emotional intimacy is reserved for the primary relationship, which takes precedence. The aim of this article is to gather the most up-to-date information on open relationships.Material and methods: A review of studies available on the PubMed platform (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/) was conducted, including articles with free full-text access that used the keywords: “open relationship”, “CNM” and "Consensual non-monogamy."Brief Description of the State of Knowledge: CNM includes open relationships, polyamory, polyfidelity, and swinging. Interest in open relationships has increased in recent years, with more people expressing curiosity about them than those actively participating. Men, individuals with high cognitive empathy, those less prone to jealousy, and those capable of experiencing compersion—the joy from a partner’s involvement with others—are particularly interested in open relationships. Summary: Research suggests potential benefits of CNM, including greater relationship and sexual satisfaction compared to monogamous arrangements. However, open relationships can also pose challenges such as social stigma, the potential breakdown of the primary relationship, or complications in parenting for those involved. Despite growing interest, CNM and phenomena like compersion remain under-researched, providing an open field for further investigation into their dynamics and impact on individual and relational well-being.

“Whenever I help her, I am also expecting her vagina in return”: a qualitative analysis to explore men’s and adolescent girls’ perceptions of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sexual behaviour and health of adolescent girls in rural western Kenya

IntroductionThe COVID-19 pandemic caused school closures, which intensified the negative sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of adolescent girls in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), including increases in transactional sexual partnerships, gender-based violence,...