Sexual Quality Of Life-Female Research Articles

Efficacy and Safety of Non-Ablative Dual Wavelength Diode Laser Therapy for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: A Single-Center Prospective Study.

This study evaluates the efficacy and safety of non-ablative diode laser therapy for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) in post-menopausal women unable to use hormonal therapies. A pilot prospective study was conducted from September 2023 to April 2024, involving 22 post-menopausal women aged 45-73years. Participants underwent three sessions of diode laser treatment with the Leonardo® dual-wavelength Diode laser. Assessments were made at baseline, 3months, and 6months post-treatment. Main outcome measures included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores for GSM symptoms, Vaginal Health Index Score (VHIS), and sexual function evaluated using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI-6), Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire (PISQ-12), and Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire. Significant improvements were observed in VHIS, increasing from 12 to 19.27 at 6months (p<0.001). GSM symptoms improved significantly: vaginal dryness scores decreased from 7.72±2.37 to 3.72±2.53, burning sensation scores dropped from 6.00±3.22 to 1.90±1.81, and dyspareunia scores reduced from 8.09±2.11 to 3.90±2.58 (all p<0.016). Sexual function improved, indicated by FSFI-6 scores increasing from 12.27±7.29 to 19.30±6.24 (p<0.016) and SQOL-F scores rising from 63.18±22.93 to 71.45±23.31. No adverse events were reported. Non-ablative diode laser therapy is effective and safe for managing GSM symptoms in post-menopausal women, offering significant symptom relief and enhancing sexual health without serious side effects. Further research with a larger cohort and extended follow-up is needed to confirm these findings. Clinical Trials ID NCT06503003.

Adenomyosis: A potential cause of surgical failure in treating dyspareunia in rectovaginal septum endometriosis.

Dyspareunia can severely impact the quality of life of patients with endometriosis. This symptom is often linked to a specific form of deep infiltrating endometriosis, such as rectovaginal septum endometriosis. Despite the radicality of surgery, persistence and recurrence of symptoms post-surgery are not uncommon. The aim of the present study was to determine whether adenomyosis contributes to the failure of surgical interventions for dyspareunia in these patients. A retrospective single-cohort study was conducted at the at tertiary care gynecologic center of the University Federico II of Naples, using medical records from January 2020 to July 2023. The study included patients who underwent surgery for dyspareunia associated with rectovaginal endometriosis and had a definitive histologic diagnosis. Pain and sexual quality of life were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) and the sexual quality of life-female (SQoL-F) questionnaire, both before and 6 months after surgery. Patients with isolated rectovaginal endometriosis were compared to those with concurrent adenomyosis. A total of 94 patients were included: thirty-five in group A (endometriosis with adenomyosis) and 59 in group B (isolated rectovaginal endometriosis). Histology confirmed deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) in all patients. Clinical characteristics such as age, BMI, abnormal uterine bleeding, and infertility, showed no significant differences between the groups. Multiparity was more common in group A (20%) compared to group B (5.1%) (P < 0.001). Pain VAS scores decreased significantly in both groups: from 7.11 to 5.40 in group A and from 7.34 to 3.31 in group B (both P < 0.001). Sexual quality of life (SQoL) scores improved significantly: from 42 to 57 in group A and from 41 to 66 in group B (both P < 0.001). Patients in group B showed a more significant improvement. Adjusted linear regression showed no significant association between parity and the severity of dyspareunia or sexual quality of life. Adenomyosis appears to reduce the effectiveness of surgical treatment for dyspareunia in patients with rectovaginal septum endometriosis. Comprehensive preoperative screening for adenomyosis is recommended to improve surgical outcomes and provide appropriate counseling. Future research should further explore the impact of adenomyosis on dyspareunia and the potential benefits of adjunctive medical therapies.

Sexual Function and Quality of Life in Iranian Women With Human Papillomavirus Infection.

Considering the prevalence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection and the lack of HPV vaccination program in Iran among young women and the importance of quality of life and sexual performance in women, we decided to conduct a study to examine the relationship between HPV infection and sexual dysfunction and quality of life in Iranian women. In this cohort study, 250 married women who infected with HPV were recruited via convinence sampling from colposcopy clinic of Arash women hospital (Tehran, Iran) from April 2020 to May 2022.They were evaluated concerning their sexual function in the domains of desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction and pain with the female sexual function index (FSFI) questionnaire (the total FSFI score is calculated by the sum of the nineteen items). Sexual quality of life-female (SQOL-F) items (Likert-type scale with a cut-off of 65 points) were organized into four sub-scales: psychosexual feelings, sexual and relationship satisfaction, self-worthlessness, and sexual repression. All patients filled out the female sexual function index (FSFI) and sexual quality of life (SQOL) questionnaires. Variables were analysed via correlation coefficient and linear regression tests. Mean age and mean marriage duration were 38.5±4.5 and 12.2±7.2, respectively. There was a weak correlation between FSFI and SQOL (r=0.15, p=0.001).Time of marriage and genital warts were the predictors on the FSFI and SQOL. The findings suggest that HPV infection can impair sexual function and quality of life. This research contributes valuable insights, especially considering the prevalence of HPV.

The Effects of Sexual Education on Function and Quality of Life of Women Who Underwent Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundThis study aimed to determine the effect of sexual education on sexual function and quality of activity after total hip arthroplasty (THA). MethodsThere were 31 patients who underwent THA who were randomly assigned to the education (n = 15) and the control (n = 16) groups in this randomized controlled trial. A sexual education session and an educational handout were provided to the study group after THA prior to discharge. Patients were evaluated 4 times throughout the study: preoperatively, at 1, 3, and 6 months after surgery. The data were collected by using the sociodemographic and medical data form, the Index of Female Sexual Function, the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQoL-F) Questionnaire, the visual analog scale (VAS) of the Fear of Sexual Activity, and the VAS of Satisfaction with Sexual Activity scales. ResultsThe mean sexual activity satisfaction score of the education group was higher in the second (95% confidence interval [Cl] [0.67 to 3.08]) and third follow-up (95% Cl [0.19 to 3.03]) (P < 0.05). Over time, the mean satisfaction scores of both groups increased (P < 0.05). The mean VAS fear of sexual activity scores at the first (95% CI [−2.81 to −0.48]), second (95% CI [−4.71 to −2.80]), and third (95% CI [−3.80 to −1.55]) follow-ups of the education group were significantly lower. Over time, the mean fear scores of both groups decreased (P < 0.05). The education group had higher mean SQoL-F scores at the first (95% CI [4.90 to 33.11], second (95% CI [7.62 to 34.31]), and third (95% CI [5.23 to 35.79]) follow-ups (P < 0.05). For the mean SQoL-F score, the difference between groups (F = 6.64), the change over time in both groups (F = 29.16), and the change over time between groups (F = 13.74) were statistically significant (P < 0.05). For the mean Index of Female Sexual Function score, it was found that the change over time was significantly different for both groups (F = 69.64, P < 0.05). ConclusionsSexual education after THA may improve satisfaction with sexual activity and quality of life.

The Fear of COVID-19 Pandemic Effects on Couples' Relationship and Sexual Quality of Life Female: A Study from Iran

Background: The enduring COVID-19 pandemic has implications for the sexual wellbeing of diverse populations, notably women. This worldwide emergency persists in affecting daily routines of individuals, as research indicates that alterations in lifestyle and imposed limitations are linked to mental health challenges. Aim: The objective of this research is to examine the interpersonal dynamics of couples and the sexual well-being of women in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This cross-sectional research involved 395 female participants who utilized Google Forms to complete online questionnaires in Iran from November 2022 to December 2022. The data collection instruments comprised the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire, Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS), Relationship Rating Scale (RAS), and Fear of COVID-19 Scale. Statistical analyses employed in the study included independent t-test, one-way ANOVA, Tukey post hoc test, and Univariate and Multiple linear regression. Results: The average age of female participants in the study was 31.97 years, with a standard deviation of 9.04. The mean scores for sexual quality of life among women were 64.82 with a standard deviation of 11.93, 18.28 with a standard deviation of 4.48 for DASS, 22.48 with a standard deviation of 4.30 for RAS, and 12.88 with a standard deviation of 3.93 for fear of COVID-19 scale. Univariate linear regression analysis indicated a significant association between the quality of sexual life and fear of COVID-19 (P = 0.001), DASS (P = 0.001), and RAS (P = 0.007). The study found a noteworthy and negative impact of fear related to COVID-19 and DASS on the sexual quality of life of women (P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The anxiety stemming from the COVID-19 outbreak seems to have repercussions on the dynamics of romantic partnerships and the sexual well-being of women. Furthermore, the pandemic is associated with heightened levels of anxiety, stress, and depression. It is recommended that further research be undertaken to explore the mental health of women and its implications on their sexual experiences in the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis.

The effect of sexual education based on the Sexual Health Model on sexual function among women living in the suburbs: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

IntroductionSuburban population is increasingly growing in Iran. People in the suburbs usually have limited sexual information and there are limited studies into their sexual issues. This study aims the effect of sexual education (SE) based on the Sexual Health Model (SHM) on sexual functioning among women living in the suburbs.MethodsThis is a randomized controlled trial with two parallel groups. Seventy-six women will be selected through simple random sampling from healthcare centers in suburban areas and will be allocated to a control group (n = 38) and an intervention group (n = 38) with a randomization ratio of 1:1. Participants in the intervention group will receive SHM-based SE in three120 min weekly sessions which will be held using the lecture, question-and-answer, group discussion, and educational booklet methods. Data will be collected through a demographic and midwifery characteristics questionnaire, the Female Sexual Function Index, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, and the Sexual Quality of Life-Female, and will be analyzed through the analysis of covariance as well as the independent-sample t, the paired-sample t, and the Chi-square tests.DiscussionWe hope this study provides a clear framework for decision-makers and healthcare providers to provide appropriate policies and interventions for SE and thereby improve the sexual health of women in the suburbs.Trial registration: This study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials on 2024.03.05 (code: IRCT20231121060133N1).

Effect of WhatsApp-based BETTER model sexual counselling on sexual function and sexual quality of life in breast cancer survivors: a randomized control trial

ObjectiveThe aim of the study was to determine the effect of WhatsApp-based BETTER sex counselling on sexual function and sexual quality of life in breast cancer survivors in a randomized control trial.MethodsThis is a randomized controlled trial in which a total of 90 breast cancer survivors were recruited using convenience sampling and then randomly assigned to two groups of WhatsApp-based BETTER model counselling and routine care. Data collection tools consisted of a demographic questionnaire, the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) and the Sexual Function Index (FSFI-BC). Participants in the intervention group were given access to the 6-week program. The program consisted of six consultation and assignment packages covering all six steps of the BETTER model. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Chi-square test, independent samples t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance were used. The significance level (p-value) was considered to be less than 0.05.ResultsIn the control group, the mean score of SQL scale changed from 35.16 ± 10.71 to 35.16 ± 12.97 (P > 0.05) and in the intervention group, it significantly increased from 34.76 ± 10.13 to 68.20 ± 20.48 (P < 0.001). Similarly, the comparison of mean of FSF in the control group showed a none-significant change from 58.13 ± 7.11 to 58.35 ± 6.11 (P > 0.05), and in the intervention group, it significantly improved from 59.49 ± 6.10 to 120.73 ± 25.54 (P < 0.001). The results of rANOVA indicated that there was a significant difference in the mean scores of the SQL and SFS between the two groups from pre- to post-intervention, and then over the 1-month follow-up period in the intervention group (p < 0.001). Considering partial eta squared, the effect of the intervention had the highest interaction effect on both variables of the sexual function index (η2 = 0.73) and sexual quality of life (η2 = 0.41).ConclusionsThe intervention program was a successful model for improving female sexual quality of life and female sexual function in breast cancer survivors.Trial registrationIRCT20210926052601N1, 7–11-2021.

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

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

Turkish Adaptation of the ADORE: A Study of Validity and Reliability.

It is obvious that current tools in literature that are used to measure female's sexual quality of life focus only on the objective dimension of sexual function, failing to examine quality of life on a multidimensional level. The aim of this research is to examine the validity and reliability of the ADORE for Turkish society. In the methodological research, 500 females were included. The research data was collected with "Descriptive Information Form" "ADORE" and "Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F)." ADORE is a five-Likert-type type and 36-item scale that was developed to assess female's sexual quality of life. It has six sub-dimensions. It is stated that ADORE can better evaluate female's sexual quality of life holistically and contextually. The validity of ADORE was analyzed as linguistic, content, and construct validities. In determining the reliability of the scale, item-total score correlation, Cronbach alpha (Cr α) coefficient, Pearson correlation, split-half analysis, test-retest, and parallel form were used. Content validity index was found to be 0.90. The confirmatory factor analysis was performed for construct validity. ADORE's Cr α reliability coefficient was determined to be .95. According to ADORE test-retest analyses, it was found that there is a positively strong and statistically high significant correlation among scores of the scale. It was determined that there is an acceptable correlation between ADORE and SQOL-F. In determining female's sexual quality of life in Turkish society, ADORE is a valid and reliable scale. It is a useful scale for health professionals working in the clinic to evaluate female's sexual quality of life.

The Effect of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-Based Psychoeducation on Body Image, Quality of Sexual Life, and Dyadic Adjustment of Women After Breast Cancer Surgery.

To determine the effect of acceptance and commitment therapy-based psychoeducation applied to women who have undergone breast cancer surgery on body image, quality of sexual life, and dyadic adjustment. Women who have undergone breast cancer surgery were included. The research had a single-group quasi-experimental design with pre-/post-test measurements and 31 participants. The research was carried out between February and July 2021. Data were collected using a personal information form, a body image perception scale, the Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and the Sexual Quality of Life-Female. The post-test mean scores of body image, quality of sexual life, and dyadic adjustment scales were significantly higher than pretest (p < 0.05). To improve the body image, quality of sexual life, and dyadic adjustment of women who have undergone breast cancer surgery, nurses are recommended to include psychoeducation based on acceptance and commitment therapy interventions in the nursing care process and to evaluate the effectiveness.

The impact of cell-based therapy on female sexual dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) is a complex issue affecting women of all ages; it involves several overlapping body systems and profoundly affects quality of life. The use of cell-based therapy, such as mesenchymal stem cells, has recently been investigated as a potential treatment for FSD. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to assess FSD outcomes following cell-based therapy. We evaluated peer-reviewed articles from multiple online databases through November 2022 to identify studies that used cell-based therapy and reported sexual function outcomes in women. We performed a meta-analysis using data pooled from 3 clinical trials at our institution: CRATUS (NCT02065245), ACESO (NCT02886884), and CERES (NCT03059355). All 3 trials collected data from the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire as an exploratory outcome. Existing literature on this topic is scarce. Five clinical studies and 1 animal study were included in the systematic review, and only 2 clinical studies were considered good quality: 1 reported significant SQOL-F improvement in women 6 months after cell therapy, and 1 reported posttherapy sexual satisfaction in all women. When individual patient data were pooled in a meta-analysis from 29 women across 3 trials at our institution, the SQOL-F was not significantly improved. Despite growing interest in cell-based therapy for women's sexual health, this important issue is understudied in the literature. The optimal route, source, and dose of cell therapy to produce clinically meaningful change have yet to be determined, and further research is needed in larger randomized placebo-controlled clinical trials.

Depression, sexual function and sexual quality of life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and healthy subjects

BackgroundWomen with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) suffer from a wide range of psychological problems. The goal of this study is to assess depression, sexual dysfunction and sexual quality of life in women with PCO compared with healthy subjects.MethodsOne hundred and six PCO cases and 106 healthy subjects enrolled. They were asked to fill out valid and reliable Persian versions of BDI (Beck depression inventory), FSFIS (Female Sexual Function Index), and sexual quality of life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaires.ResultsOne hundred and six PCO cases and 106 healthy subjects enrolled. Mean BDI was significantly higher while FSFI and its subscales as well as SQOL-F were significantly lower in PCO group than controls. There were significant negative correlation between FSFO and BDI (r=-0.43, p < 0.001) and also positive correlation between FSFI and SQOL-F (r = 0.438, p < 0.001) in whole population of the study. In PCO group, 77 (72.6%) had FSFI less than 26.55 and 29 (27.4%) had score more than 26.55. mean BDI was significantly higher in the group with FSFI < = 26.55 than the other group (33 ± 14.4 vs. 12 ± 11.6, p < 0.001) while SLQL-F was significantly lower in the first group (57 ± 16 vs. 74.9 ± 17.6, p < 0.001). Linear regression analysis by considering SQOL-F as dependent and FSFI, age and BDI as independent variables showed that BDI and FSFI are independent predictors.ConclusionWomen with PCO, suffer more from depression and sexual dysfunction than healthy subjects.

Sexual Quality of Life of Breast Cancer Survivors: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Sexual quality of life (SQL), one of the essential issues of sexual and reproductive health, negatively affects the overall quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the SQL of breast cancer survivors. In this cross-sectional study, 410 breast cancer survivors were recruited in a two-stage sampling process. The quota sampling method was employed in the first stage, and convenience sampling was used in the second stage between December 2020 and September 2021. The data were collected using the sexual Quality of Life-Female, Female Sexual Function Index, Revised Religious Attitude. The mean age of the participants and the time since the disease diagnosis were 42.64 ± 6.02 years and 13.9 ± 4.80 months, respectively. The mean score of SQL was 66.65 ± 10.23 (95% Confidence Interval: 66.63-67.62). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the SQL of breast cancer survivors was significantly correlated with their occupation (β=0.12, P<0.008), education (β=-0.23, P<0.001), their spouse's education (β=0.16, P<0.001), belief in the sex initiation by the spouse (β=0.23, P<0.001), fear of being hurt by sexual intercourse (β=0.21 P < 0.001), receiving training about sexual relations (β = 0.1, P < 0.049), lumpectomy (β = 0.11, P < 0.001), sexual function (β = 0.13 β = 0.001), and religious attitude (β = 0.27, P < 0.001). These factors explain 60% of the variance of the SQL score. Considering the various factors contributing to the SQL of breast cancer survivors can inform interventions targeted at improving the health status of these women.

Female genital lichen sclerosus is connected with a higher depression rate, decreased sexual quality of life and diminished work productivity.

Female genital lichen sclerosus is an underdiagnosed, distressing, chronic dermatosis affecting the well-being of women. The aim of this retrospective case-control study was to assess whether the disease is connected with work productivity and activity impairment, depression and decreased sexual quality of life. Fifty-one female patients with genital lichen sclerosus and forty-five healthy women were enrolled to the study and filled out an online survey including: Work Productivity and Activity Impairment: General Health (WPAI:GH), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and The Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaires. The results showed that women with genital lichen sclerosus are at risk of having a diminished work productivity, are more often screened for depression and have a decreased sexual quality of life. The study highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to treating female genital lichen sclerosus.

Evaluation of sexual function and sexual quality of life in women during the COVID-19 Pandemic: the Turkish case.

Sexual health is an important component of general health. To evaluate sexual function and sexual quality of life (SQOL) in women during the COVID-19 pandemic. This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in Turkey. Data were collected via a Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire. The mean FSFI score was 26.91±5.62, and 39.1% of the women had an FSFI score of 26.55 or lower. The mean SQOL-F score was 79.08±20.90. FSFI score was significantly associated with employment status (β=-0.661), partner education (β=1.698), sexual compatibility between partners (β=0.518), sexual satisfaction (β=0.230), fatigue level (β= -0.120), and frequency of sexual intercourse (β=0.160). In addition, SQOL-F score was significantly associated with sexual desire (β=2.625), satisfaction (β=1.338), pain or discomfort (β=1.274), age (β= -0.356), sexual compatibility between partners (β=1.984), and fatigue level (β=-0.981) (p<0.05). Less than half of the women participating in this study had sexual dysfunction, and overall SQOL was moderate to high. These results were associated with some descriptive characteristics of the women and were similar to those reported in pre-pandemic studies conducted in Turkey.

Predictive factors of Sexual Quality of Life in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a path analysis.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the common endocrine disorders. This study aimed to assess predictive factors of sexual quality of life among Iranian women with PCOS. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 women with PCOS in Hamadan, Iran, from July to October 2021. Data was collected using The Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) questionnaire, The Hurlbert Index of Sexual Compatibility, hirsutism, and a general health questionnaire (GHQ-28). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Bivariate Pearson correlations, and a path model by the SPSS, Version 16, and LISREL software version 8.5. The average age of participants was 32.80 years. The mean (SD) of the total SQOL-F, sexual compatibility, and GHQ were 69.36 (18.78), 55.44 (7.07), and 58.06 (12.87), respectively. Our results showed that hirsutism score, GHQ, and sexual compatibility were the main predictors of the SQOL-F. Sexual compatibility has an indirect effect on the SQOL-F through the GHQ. The findings of the present study suggest that women with PCOS should be routinely screened for sexual quality of life by qualified health professionals. In addition, the necessary medical interventions and counseling should be done for improving sexual compatibility, mental health, and clinical manifestation of these women.

The effectiveness of Pythagorean self-awareness intervention in improving the quality of sexual life of women with multiple sclerosis

Background and aims: The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of Pythagorean self-awareness intervention in improving the quality of sexual life of women with multiple sclerosis (MS). Methods: In this quasi-experimental study, among women with MS in Isfahan province who had medical records in Ayatollah Kashani Hospital and Isfahan MS Center, 150 female patients were enrolled by convenience sampling and screened by Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F). After screening, 46 patients, whose quality of sexual life score was lower than the mean score of 63, were randomly assigned to experimental and control groups, each comprising 23 patients. The experimental group received the Pythagorean self-awareness intervention, while the control group received no intervention. Both groups were assessed at pre-test, post-test, and two follow-up stages. The data were analyzed by multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA). Results: The results revealed that the quality of sexual life of the experimental group improved after the intervention (P&lt;0.001). Compared to the pre-test, a significant difference was observed in its components, namely, psychosexual feelings, sexual and relationship satisfaction, self-worthlessness, and sexual repression (P&lt;0.001). Conclusion: It seems that Pythagorean self-awareness intervention effectively improves the quality of sexual life of women with MS. In addition to the overall improvement in the quality of sexual life, a significant difference was observed in its components compared to the pre-test after the intervention. Therefore, it is essential to plan psychological interventions to improve these women’s quality of sexual life.

Effects of oral ginger capsule on sexual function and sexual quality of life in women: A double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Women's sexual dysfunction is a public health concern with a variety of physical and psychological consequences that influence couples’ quality of life. The present study is conducted to evaluate the effect of the oral ginger capsule on the sexual function and sexual quality of life of reproductive-age women. This randomized, double-blind clinical trial was performed on 190 women of reproductive age refereeing to health care centers of Alborz Province, Iran during July 2019- November 2020. The women's baseline sexual function and sexual quality of life were assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and sexual quality of life-female (SQOL-F) questionnaire. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group which received, 250 mg oral ginger capsules four times a day for four weeks, and the control group was received four placebos (250 mg) capsules every day for the same period of time. Women's sexual quality of life, and sexual function, were evaluated four weeks after the start of the intervention. The mean total score of sexual function four weeks after the start of the study in the intervention group was significantly improved compared to before the intervention (27.93 ± 4.97 vs30.94 ± 3.43 (p < 0.001). The sexual quality of life in the intervention group was significantly improved after four weeks of intervention, compared to before the intervention (93.74 ± 17.84 vs 100.9 ± 11.14, p < 0.001) and compared to the control group (100.9 vs 97.2). The findings of this study show that oral ginger capsule has the potential to improve the sexual function and sexual quality of life of reproductive-age women. Approval number from Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20191013045086N1 (Registration date: 2019-12-22).

Relationship between the symptoms of COPD and the quality of sexual life.

ObjectiveThis study was conducted to assess the relationship between the symptoms experienced by women with COPD and the quality of their sexual life.MethodThis study was designed as a descriptive cross-sectional study. The study was conducted at a hospital’s chest diseases clinic located in the western of Turkey. The sample comprises 62 female patients hospitalized with diagnosis of COPD. A questionnaire form, the Medical Research Council Scale (MRCS), the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and the Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F) applied to the women with COPD. Frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Kruskal Wallis test, Mann-Whitney U Test, correlation and regression analysis, were used for the data analysis process.FindingsThe decrease in the education level of the participants who have any accompanying chronic disease, and experience symptoms during sexual intercourse negatively affects their quality of sexual life. The quality of sexual life decreases as age, duration of marriage and duration of illness increase (p < 0.05). The results of the linear regression analysis carried out to predict the quality of sexual life of women with COPD shown that the increase in mMRC and CAT significantly decreased the quality of sexual life. These variables explain 58% of the variance.ConclusionsThe result of the study shown the sexual quality of life of women with COPD was impaired and COPD symptoms affect them.

Cross-cultural adaptation and validity of the Questionnaire on Sexual Quality of Life – Female (SQoL-F) in Brazil

RESUMO Objetivo A qualidade de vida sexual abarca a satisfação sexual e com a parceria, a expressão de desejos e valores sexuais, a boa imagem corporal, além de questões de ordem física, comportamentais, psicológicas e emocionais que afetam a sexualidade. Não há instrumentos confiáveis e válidos para avaliar a qualidade de vida sexual das mulheres brasileiras, portanto este estudo buscou traduzir o Questionnaire on Sexual Quality of Life – Female (SQoL-F) e apresentar evidências de validade do instrumento no contexto brasileiro. Métodos Foram realizados tradução, avaliação da validade de conteúdo, teste da versão pré-final e análise fatorial exploratória do instrumento. Resultados Identificou-se a presença de um único fator que explicou 49% da variância, condizente com o proposto no questionário original. Esse modelo unifatorial apresentou cargas fatoriais adequadas (entre 0,36 e 0,85). Conclusão O questionário apresentou boa consistência interna e foram apresentadas evidências de validade satisfatórias para o uso com mulheres brasileiras.