Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire Research Articles

Development and psychometric evaluation of the sexual satisfaction questionnaire for postmenopausal women (PWSSQ): an exploratory mixed method study protocol

BackgroundThe concept of sexual satisfaction in menopausal women is very different from that in premenopausal women, and this difference is due to aging and physical, hormonal, cultural, and psychological changes. Therefore, the first step in discovering methods for assessing sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women is to develop a measurement instrument. This study was conducted to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of a sexual satisfaction instrument for postmenopausal women.MethodsThe current study is an exploratory-sequential mixed-methods research project that will be divided into two parts: qualitative and quantitative. Aligned with the primary objective of the research, which is to elucidate the concept of sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women, the hybrid concept analysis model developed by Schwartz and Kim will be employed. This model comprises three key phases: the theoretical phase, the fieldwork phase, and the final analytical phase. Those who met the inclusion criteria and exhibited maximum variance in terms of age, educational level, employment status, and menopausal duration were recruited. The conventional content analysis will be carried out following the steps proposed by Graneheim and Lundman. Second, in the quantitative phase, the psychometric properties of the instrument were evaluated, including the content, face and construct validity and reliability via internal consistency and stability. The psychometric properties described in the COSMIN checklist will be utilized for designing the instrument.DiscussionA valid and reliable scale for evaluating the sexual satisfaction of postmenopausal women should be developed, and educational content should be designed to improve the sexual satisfaction of this group of women.

The impact of positive psychology counseling on sexual and marital satisfaction and anxiety among reproductive-aged women during the COVID-19 pandemic: a randomized controlled clinical trial

BackgroundSexual and marital satisfaction is considered one of the important factors in happiness and life satisfaction of couples. COVID-19 pandemic results in psychological effects, such as increased anxiety levels which can affect sexual and marital satisfaction. This study aimed to investigate the impact of positive psychology on women’s sexual and marital satisfaction.MethodsA randomized controlled trial was conducted on 72 married women of reproductive age in Tabriz, Iran between February 2021 and May 2022. The participants were randomly divided into the intervention and control groups. There was no significant difference between the control and intervention groups in terms of the socio-demographic characteristics (p < 0.05). The mean age of the participants in the intervention and control groups was 31.8 ± 6.92 and 30.97 ± 5.09 years, respectively. The intervention group attended seven 60–90 min counseling sessions at weekly intervals. The Spielberger anxiety, sexual satisfaction and marital satisfaction questionnaires were completed before and four weeks after the intervention.ResultsThe results of this study indicated that after counseling, the average overall score of marital satisfaction [MD: 15.46, 95% CI: 7.47 to 23.41, p = 0.034] and sexual satisfaction [MD: 7.83, 95% CI: 6.25 to 9.41, p = 0.001] significantly increased in the intervention group compared to the control group. Also, the mean score of state anxiety [MD: -2.50, 95% CI: -4.19 to -0.80, p = 0.001] and trait anxiety [MD: -1.03, 95% CI: -2.46 to -0.09, p = 0.032] significantly decreased after counseling in the intervention group compared to the control group.ConclusionsUsing counseling based on a positive psychology approach can improve anxiety, sexual and marital satisfaction, and anxiety of women of reproductive age during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, further randomized clinical trials are needed before making a definitive conclusion.Trial registrationIranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT): IRCT20171007036615N8. Date of registration: 11/28/21. Date of first registration: 11/28/21. URL: https://www.irct.ir/user/trial/58680/view; Date of recruitment start date: 12/01/21.

Sexual satisfaction and oversexualization among adults. The moderating role of self-esteem

BackgroundIn the contemporary world, there is excessive creation and exposure of one’s own sexuality among adults. Taking this into account, the determinants of sexualization are being sought. The aim of this research was to assess the significance of se-lected demographic variables and the number of sexual partners, as well as psychological variables (self-esteem and sexual satisfaction) for revealing behaviours related to over-sexualization. We also investigated whether self-esteem can moderate the relationship between sexual satisfaction and over-sexualization.Participants and procedureSeven hundred persons, including 403 women (298 heterosexual and 105 gay) and 297 men (199 heterosexual and 98 gay) were surveyed. The respondents were aged from 18 to 45 years (M = 22.90, SD = 4.62). In the study the following tools were used: the Oversexualization Questionnaire, the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire and the Self-Esteem Scale.ResultsIt was found that sexualized appearance was more important for homosexual persons than heterosexual ones and seduction differentiated women and men and was correlated with the age and the number of sexual partners. Oversexualization demonstrated in appearance and message contents was correlated with low self-esteem and low sexual satisfaction. Low self-esteem was found to be a significant moderator in the relationship between sexual satisfaction and sexualized appearance.ConclusionsThe present study indicates the importance of self-esteem and sexual satisfaction for sexualized appearance. Low self-esteem moderates the relationship between sexual satisfaction and sexualized appearance.

Modeling the relationship between depression in people with cancer and perceived stress, with the mediating role of eating problems, sexual satisfaction, emotion regulation and self-compassion.

With the rising prevalence of cancer and the adverse physical and psychological experiences endured by affected individuals, this study aims to establish a model illustrating the relationship between depression in people with cancer and perceived stress. Additionally, it examines the mediating influence of eating problems, sexual satisfaction, emotional regulation, and self-compassion. This study employs a descriptive-correlational research method, utilizing structural equation analysis (modeling) to explore the role of mediators. The research sample comprised 200 individuals diagnosed with cancer, selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Participants completed Beck's 13-item depression questionnaire, a 10-item perceived stress questionnaire, an 8-item appetite measurement questionnaire, a 25-item sexual satisfaction questionnaire, a 10-item emotion regulation questionnaire, and a 12-item compassion questionnaire. The data were subsequently analyzed using SPSS-24 and Lisrel 80/8 software. The research findings indicate a significant positive relationship between perceived stress and depression in people with cancer. Furthermore, eating problems exhibited a mediating role in the relationship between perceived stress and depression, with a direct effect coefficient of (t = 0.28, ß = 0.02). However, the path from perceived stress to depression, mediated by sexual satisfaction, was found to be statistically insignificant, with a standard coefficient of 0.01 at the p < 0.05 level. Emotion regulation demonstrated a direct effect coefficient of (t = -3.52, ß = -0.33) on depression. Likewise, self-compassion exhibited a direct effect coefficient of (t = -3.08, ß = -0.28) on depression, while the path from perceived stress to depression was mediated by self-compassion, with a standard coefficient of 0.12 at the p < 0.05 level. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the interplay between depression and perceived stress in individuals with cancer, revealing a significant positive association. Eating problems emerged as a mediating factor, directly influencing the manifestation of depressive symptoms. However, the mediation pathway through sexual satisfaction was found to be statistically insignificant. Emotion regulation and self-compassion were identified as influential factors, with direct effects on depression and self-compassion also serving as a mediator in the relationship between perceived stress and depression. The findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions addressing eating problems, enhancing emotion regulation, and fostering self-compassion to alleviate the impact of depression and perceived stress in individuals facing cancer-related challenges. Further research is encouraged to refine and expand upon these insights, advancing holistic care for this population.

Adjuvant administration of probiotic effects on sexual function in depressant women undergoing SSRIs treatment: a double-blinded randomized controlled trial

BackgroundAccording to the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation’s Global Health Data Exchange (2023) it is estimated that 5% of all adults will experience depressive disorder. Amongst the general loss of pleasure and interest in everyday activities that are symptoms of low mood, reduced sexual desire and sexual dysfunction can be particularly overlooked. Human sexuality is complex, but finding solutions based on scientific evidence to limit the symptoms of depressive disorder and the iatrogenic impact of antidepressant treatment to improve this outcome is an important step in promoting psychological health and general wellbeing.ObjectiveThe present study aimed is to provide scientific evidence to assess the effect of oral probiotic on sexual function in women with depressive disorder treated with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in an Iranian population.DesignThis study was a double-blind randomized clinical trial. Eligible women were assigned to lactofem plus SSRIs (n = 58) or SSRIs alone (n = 54). In group A, SSRI antidepressants were prescribed together with Lactofem, and in group B, SSRI antidepressants were prescribed alone. Lactofem including Lactobacillus acidophilus 2 × 109 cfu/g, Bifidobacterium bifidus 2 × 109 cfu/g, Lactobacillus rutri 2 × 109 cfu/g, Lactobacillus fermentum 2 × 109 cfu/g; capsule weight of 500 mg bio-capsule administered orally and daily. The duration of intervention in two groups was two months. All questionnaires were completed by the patients before and after the intervention. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Larson's Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire were used to evaluate sexual function, severity of depressive disorder and sexual satisfaction, respectively.ResultsBased on the results of the present study, there was a statistically significant difference in sexual satisfaction and severity of depressive disorder between the groups before and after the intervention (P < 0.05). Also, our findings showed that after eight weeks, the Lactofem plus SSRIs group showed significant improvement in FSFI domains and total scores compared to SSRIs alone group (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe results of the present study show that taking probiotics for eight weeks may improve the severity of depressive disorder, sexual function and sexual satisfaction in depressed women treated with SSRIs.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.govidentifier: IRCT20160524028038N14 (19/12/2022)

Sexual Rewards and Costs in Heterosexual and Gay Hispanic Adults.

The Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction proposes that sexual satisfaction can be explained by the balance of sexual rewards or costs exchange. The Interpersonal Exchange Model of Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (IEMSSQ) was developed from this model. The IEMSSQ includes the Reward/Costs Checklist (RCC). The RCC assesses different sexual exchanges that are categorized into sexual rewards and/or costs. Analyses and comparisons of sexual rewards and costs in the Hispanic cisgender population based on gender (man or woman) and sexual orientation (heterosexual and homosexual) with this measure have not been conducted. The main goal was to analyze and rank the sexual rewards, costs, and both, indicated by a sample of 1996 Hispanic partnered participants (heterosexual men, gay men, heterosexual women, and lesbians). The predominant sexual exchanges that were reported involved emotional aspects, both as rewards and costs. When participants indicated that the exchange was both a reward and a cost, they were referring to aspects specifically related to the sexual relationship itself. Heterosexual men and women had greater rewards and higher costs, respectively. Gay men obtained a greater number of items reported as rewards and costs. The results provide further insight into sexual satisfaction related to gender and sexual orientation.

Structural Equation Modeling Modeling of the Tendency Toward Marital Infidelity Based on Significant Five Personality Factors Mediated by Attachment Styles and Sexual Satisfaction

Background: The evaluation of the tendency to marital infidelity is essential based on the influential personality factor mediated by attachment styles and sexual satisfaction. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the structural relationships of the tendency to commit marital infidelity based on the orientation of dialogue and listening and conformity with the mediation of attachment styles and sexual satisfaction. Methods: This study was conducted on all men and women referred to counseling centers in Mashhad, among whom 220 people were selected using the multi-stage cluster sampling method. The data collection tools included the tendency towards extramarital relationships, the Big 5-factor questionnaire, the Hazen and Shaver adult attachment style questionnaire, and the Hudson-Harris and Crosscup sexual satisfaction questionnaire. Results: The five personality factors of neuroticism, extroversion, openness, conscientiousness, and agreeableness could predict the tendency to marital infidelity both directly and through three secure and avoidant attachment styles. Conclusions: Based on the results, personality factors influenced extramarital relationships directly and indirectly, which can be used in premarital therapy to educate couples.

Effects of stress management and relationship-enrichment counseling on sexual and marital satisfaction of working women with high occupational stress.

Industrialization of societies has placed considerable stress on employees influencing marital and sexual satisfaction. This study investigated the effects of stress management (SM) and relationship enrichment (RE) counseling on marital and sexual satisfaction in stressed women working at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences hospitals, Iran. In this quasi-experimental study, 75 nurses and midwives experiencing moderate-to-severe occupational stress after obtaining written informed consent were assigned to SM and RE counseling and control groups randomly. The SM and RE attended six-related counseling sessions, and control group received no intervention. The participants completed Osipow's Revised Occupational Stress Inventory (OSI-R), ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale, and Larson's Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire before and 2 weeks after the intervention. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and ANCOVA. SM counseling led to relatively good increase in sexual satisfaction. In addition, there was no significant difference between the three groups in the mean occupational stress scores and marital satisfaction scores. SM counseling increased the level of sexual satisfaction. The approaches had no significant effect on occupational stress and marital satisfaction. Further studies are required to identify the best counseling approaches.

Sexual Satisfaction among Lebanese Adults: Scale Validation in Arabic and Correlates Following Two Cross-Sectional Studies

(1) Background: Sexual satisfaction (SS) is an essential component of quality of life. There is a scarcity of research about sexual satisfaction in Lebanon, a country where discussing sexual issues is still considered a taboo. The present study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of responses to the items in the Arabic version of the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (SSQ), as well as the correlates of sexual satisfaction, among a sample of Lebanese adults. (2) Methods: Two cross-sectional studies were conducted between June and September 2022 with 270 and 359 participants, respectively. (3) Results: The results showed that the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire is adequate to be used in Lebanon (McDonald’s ω = 0.90 and 0.86, respectively). Multivariate analysis showed that higher waterpipe dependence (Beta = −0.17) was substantially linked to lower sexual satisfaction, while better emotional intelligence (EI) (Beta = 0.27) and physical activity (Beta = 0.17) were significantly associated with greater sexual satisfaction. (4) Conclusions: The reliability and validity of the responses to the Arabic version of the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire were supported by our findings. Also, practical implications for sexual satisfaction enhancement strategies in the Lebanese population might be beneficial since many associated factors are considered to be modifiable.

The relationship between depression and sexual satisfaction: An equation model analysis

BACKGROUND: The relationship between depression and sexual satisfaction in middle-aged women has been reported previously. However, there is insufficient evidence that depression is related to sexual satisfaction or that sexual satisfaction is related to depression. This study evaluated the relationship between depression and sexual satisfaction in middle-aged women by evaluating the equation model analysis of the two models. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 190 middle-aged women in Isfahan, Iran, in 2021. Sexual satisfaction dimensions were evaluated using self-report women's sexual satisfaction questionnaire. Also, the depression scale of the general health questionnaire was used to measure of the depression level. Research data were analyzed using a multivariate linear regression test. Also, the fit of the model was evaluated using Amos software. RESULTS: The results showed that depression score had an inverse relationship with sexual satisfaction in the relational concern dimension (Beta = −0.27, P = 0.006, CI: −0.11 to − 0.86). Model fit evaluation showed that the sexual satisfaction-depression model had a better fit than the depression-sexual satisfaction model (CMIN/DF = 1.123, P = 0.64). CONCLUSION: The results showed that depression in middle-aged women is related to the relational concern. It is necessary to consider counseling programs to solve sexual relationship concerns in middle-aged women's mental health promotion programs.

Effect of Salvia officinalis scent on postmenopausal women’s sexual function and satisfaction: a randomized controlled trial

IntroductionSexual function is one of the important aspects of quality of life which is often impaired after menopause. Given the side effects of hormone therapy on postmenopausal women, alternative treatments such as aromatherapy have won popularity. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis on the sexual function and satisfaction of postmenopausal women.MethodsThis was a double-blind randomized controlled trial conducted on postmenopausal women referring to health centers in Kermanshah, Iran, in 2018. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: Salvia officinalis (n = 32) and control (n = 32). Women in the intervention group received 2 drops of Salvia officinalis essential oil by inhalation twice a day for 5 consecutive days of a week continued for 6 weeks. The control group received almond oil in the same dosage and frequency. Sexual function and satisfaction were evaluated using the Lindberg sexual satisfaction questionnaire and the female sexual function index, respectively before the intervention and 6 weeks after it.ResultsAfter 6 weeks of intervention, the total mean scores of sexual function (28.8 ± 2.13 vs.17.9 ± 1.59 P < 0.001) and sexual satisfaction (71.53 ± 5.86 vs. 50.44 ± 10.41) were significantly higher in the Salvia officinalis group compared with the control group, respectively.ConclusionThe findings showed that aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis has a significant effect on improving sexual function and satisfaction in postmenopausal women. Therefore, given the prevalence of sexual disorders in postmenopausal women, aromatherapy using Salvia officinalis is recommended to be used for improving these disorders.Clinical trial registrationIranian Registry of Clinical Trials; https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/50212/view (IRCT20160427027633N6), registered (12/08/2020).

Polish adaptation of The Love Attitudes Scale: Short Form

The present study was conducted to determine the psychometric properties of the Polish version of The Love Attitudes Scale: Short Form (Hendrick et al., 1998). The scale is used to measure the love styles Eros, Ludus, Storge, Pragma, Mania, Agape based on John Lee's theory. The mean age of the subjects was 23 years (SD = 4.09). To determine the psychometric properties of the scale, an exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (RMSEA = 0.0425; CFI = 0.938; TLI = 0.928) was performed. The reliability of the Polish version of The Love Attitudes Scale: Short Form was measured using Cronbach's Alpha (0.67 for the total tool, for subscales 0.61 to 0.81) and McDonald's Omega (0.69 for the total tool, for subscales 0.66 to 0.82). An external validity analysis was also conducted using the Attachment Styles Questionnaire, the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire, Rosenberg self-esteem scale and the Well-being Questionnaire. Based on the results, the Polish version of The Love Attitudes Scale: Short Form can be considered a tool with good psychometric properties recommended for use in scientific research.

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

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

(027) Quality of Life, Including Sexual Life of Transgender People in Poland

Abstract Introduction The shaping of human identity in the relationship between the mind and the body and the importance of this relationship for becoming a sexual being are elements of everyone's life, but in the case of transgender people this path is particularly complicated. Objective The main aim of the study was to analyze the relationship between the quality of life and sexual life in relation to the process of diagnosis and treatment of transgender people. Methods 104 transgender people were enrolled in the study, including 66 transgender men and 38 transgender women. The study was conducted in two medical centers. The research tool used in the study was the original questionnaire and the Life Satisfaction Scale (SWLS), the Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (KSS). Results In the study, all transsexual persons had complete medical and psychological diagnostics necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The average duration of the diagnostic process was 6 to 12 months among the surveyed people (N = 42; 40,4%). Transgender persons also defined the duration and time of implementation of the "real life" test. The analysis of the research material shows that the vast majority of respondents started the "real life" test before starting the diagnostic process and its average duration during the diagnostic process was from 3 to 6 months. All medical services in the field of diagnostic and laboratory tests as well as medical procedures related to surgical gender correction cover from own resources. Medical procedures in the field of intramuscular injections are not carried out as part of primary health care, but are carried out in their own scope, usually independently after the previous instruction by persons unprofessional prepared for that. Studies have also shown that health-related aspects including reproductive health are not addressed in the transgender group by the attending physicians. The vast majority of information about transgender is searched on the Internet, and not by doctors as a professional source of information. Half of the transgender examined had suicidal ideation (N=58%) and 11% of those attempted suicide. The mean value of life satisfaction (SWLS) in the study group was 25,4 (SD=4,3; min.=12, max.=33). The Mann-Whitney U test showed that the examined transgender people differ in the average result obtained in the SWLS scale (U = 723,5; p = 0,.000270). The average raw result obtained in the KSS scale for the whole examined group is 32.88 (SD=3.28; min.=20, max.=39). Conclusions The diagnosis and treatment process determines the quality of life, sexual satisfaction of transgender people. Support for the transgender family determines their assessment of life satisfaction. In Poland, there is no standard of care for transgender people and there is no discussion of reproductive health. Disclosure Any of the authors act as a consultant, employee or shareholder of an industry for: Medical University of Silesia

(440) Quality of Life, Including Sexual Life of Orthodontic Appliance Users

Abstract Introduction Orthodontic treatment is closely related to the quality of life, including sexual life. Oral health obliges us to take a holistic approach to sexual health. Regarding the sexuality of orthodontic appliance users, no such studies have been conducted so far. Objective The main goal of the study was to analyze the quality of life, including sexual life of orthodontic appliance users. Methods 922 people over 18 years old who were undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances or aligners were selected for the study. Data for the study were obtained using two standardized questionnaires: The Satisfaction With Life Scale and The Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire, a metric and an author’s questionnaire. Results The study group consisted of 922 people, including 718 women and 204 men, aged 20 to 56 years. All subjects were undergoing orthodontic treatment. Among the respondents, both men and women, the treatment process with the use of classic fixed appliances with metal brackets (n = 544) was dominating. Another group of orthodontic appliance users were patients with fixed appliances with aesthetic brackets (ceramic, porcelain, crystal) (n = 194). The patients treated with aligners were found only in the women's group (n = 145). The average orthodontic treatment time ranged from 1 to 1.5 years, however, there were individuals treated for more than 2 years. The mean score of satisfaction with life in the study group was 20.85. The study showed that men achieve statistically significantly higher results than women on the Satisfaction With Life Scale (p &amp;lt;0.00). The mean score of sexual satisfaction in the study group was 31.10. Regarding the selfassessment of sexual satisfaction, a statistically significant difference was noticed between women and men (p &amp;lt;0.001) – men assessed their sexual life higher than women. The relationship between sexual satisfaction and self-esteem in sexual life proved to be closely related. The self-esteem of the respondents was consistent with the results obtained in a standardized questionnaire and the high self-esteem rate was accompanied by high, objectively assessed sexual satisfaction scores. Sexual satisfaction was also strongly correlated with the respondents' attitude to the orthodontic appliances, the level of satisfaction with the relationship, and the frequency of sexual intercourse. The study demonstrated positive correlations of the sexual satisfaction score with the overall quality of life. Conclusions The attitude of the respondents to the orthodontic appliances has an impact on their quality of life, including sexual life. The orthodontic appliances may generate difficulties (the reduction of frequency or discontinuation) in subjects' sexual behavior, such as kissing and oral sex. Orthodontic appliances may also cause injury during sexual intercourse. The lack of reliable information on the relationship between orthodontic treatment and sexuality forces a need to raise awareness among dentists and orthodontic appliance users about the topics related to orthodontic treatment and sexual health. Disclosure No

How does multiple sclerosis affect sexual satisfaction in patients' spouses?

Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common complaint among multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with a significant impact on the quality of life (QoL) of afflicted couples. The purpose of this study was to determine sexual satisfaction (SS) in the spouses of MS patients and its impact on the QoL. A total of 214 spouses of MS patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. They completed the Larson Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire and SF-8 Health Survey. The mean ± SD age of the spouses was 39.8 ± 9.7 years, and the duration of MS was 5 years or less in most of their partners. The mean ± SD score of QoL was 71.0 ± 20.3 (out of 100), and the mean SS score was 89.2 ± 18.6 (out of 125), showing moderate satisfaction. The highest score was among male spouses younger than 40 years old. The SS scores were also lower among female spouses. In the final model, it was found that SD, psychiatric symptoms, cognitive impairment, and the level of disability of patients were independent explanatory factors for the SS of their spouses. The findings supported the role of SS in the QoL of spouses of MS patients. Therefore, the attention of physicians to this hidden aspect of the life of MS patients is crucial.

The level of sexual satisfaction and life satisfaction during second the wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland.

The COVID-19 pandemic has unquestionably changed the lives of Polish people, creating anxiety and uncertainty. Life satisfaction and sexual satisfaction are subjective evaluations of life and the sexual sphere. Previous research indicates a relationship between sexual satisfaction and life satisfaction. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate what level of sexual satisfaction was present during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, taking into account gender, sexual orientation, and relational status, and to examine the relationship between sexual satisfaction and life satisfaction. There were 440 participants, aged between 18 and 40 (M = 24.31, SD = 4.90). The study was conducted online. The Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire developed by Dolińskia-Zygmunt and Nomejko was used to measure sexual satisfaction, while the Satisfaction with Life Scale developed by Diner et al. was used to measure subjective aspect of life satisfaction. Most of the respondents are satisfied with their life (33%) and sexual sphere (42%). Relationship status is important for the sense of both sexual and life satisfaction, while gender and sexual identity were not associated with any other variable. There is a positive correlation between life satisfaction and sexual satisfaction (r = 0.438, p <0.001). Regression analysis showed that significant predictors of life satisfaction are: sexual satisfaction (p <0.001) and relationship status. (p <0.001). During the COVID-19 pandemic, respondents self-rated their life satisfaction and sexual satisfaction highly, although being single can lower both types of satisfaction.

Complex factors related to marital and sexual satisfaction among couples undergoing infertility treatment: A cross-sectional study

ObjectivesThis study assesses complex factors related to marital and sexual satisfaction among couples undergoing infertility treatment. MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted with 140 couples who visited fertility centers in Iran, between September 2015 and July 2016. Data collection was done by Marital and Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaires and were analyzed by the IBM SPSS 26 software. ResultsThere was a significant difference between wives and husbands in the MSQ total scores (p = 0.027). However, there was no significant difference between wives and husbands in the SSQ total scores (p = 0.398). Sexual satisfaction and decision-maker in life among wives and husbands were significant predictors of MSQ. The kind of treatment, cause of infertility and BMI among wives and kinds of treatment, cause of infertility, and decision-maker among husbands were also significant predictors of SSQ. ConclusionThe findings of this study showed that there is a difference between the understanding of marital and sexual satisfaction in wives and their husbands. Healthcare providers need to pay more attention to these differences.

The effect of cognitive-behavioral therapy and sexual health education on sexual assertiveness of newly married women

BackgroundThe present study aimed at investigating the effect of sexual health education and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on sexual assertiveness (primary outcome) and sexual satisfaction (secondary outcome) of newly married women.MethodThis RCT was conducted on 66 newly married women with cases in pre-marriage counseling centers in Tabriz, Iran. Participants were assigned into three groups using block randomization. Eight group sessions of CBT were held for one of the intervention groups (n = 22) and 5–7 sessions of sexual health education for other intervention group (n = 22). The control group (n = 22) received neither education nor counseling during the research. The data were collected using the demographic and obstetric characteristics, Hulbert sexual assertiveness index, and Larson sexual satisfaction questionnaires, and analyzed using ANOVA and ANCOVA tests.ResultsThe mean (standard deviation: SD) score of the sexual assertiveness and sexual satisfaction in the CBT group enhanced from 48.77 (13.94) and 73.13 (13.53) before the intervention to 69.37 (7.28) and 86.57 (7.5) after the intervention, respectively. The mean (SD) score of the sexual assertiveness and sexual satisfaction in the sexual health education group increased from 48.9(11.39) and 74.95 (8.30) before the intervention to 66. 94 (7.42) and 84.93 (6.34) after the intervention, respectively. The mean (SD) score of the sexual assertiveness and sexual satisfaction in the control group changed from 45.04 (15.87) and 69.04 (10.75) before the intervention to 42.74 (14.11) and 66.44 (10.11) after the intervention, respectively. Eight weeks after the intervention, the mean scores of sexual assertiveness and sexual satisfaction in two intervention groups were more than that in the control group (P < 0.001), However, there was no significant difference between the two intervention groups (P > 0.05).ConclusionThe results of this research indicated that CBT and sexual health education are effective in improving women’s sexual assertiveness and sexual satisfaction. Considering that sexual health education, does not require complex counseling skills compared to CBT, it can be used as a preferred intervention in promoting sexual assertiveness and satisfaction of newly married women.Trial registrationIranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20170506033834N8. Date of registration: 11.09.2021. URL: http://en.irct.ir.

The efficacy and safety of temperature controlled dual-mode radiofrequency in women with vaginal laxity

ObjectiveVaginal laxity could negatively influence women’s sexual function. This study aimed to explore the efficacy and safety of temperature controlled dual-mode (monopolar and bipolar) radiofrequency (RF) in women with vaginal laxity.MethodsA total of 102 patients with vaginal laxity were treated with temperature-controlled RF. The present study implemented Vaginal Laxity Questionnaire (VLQ), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire and Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire (SSQ) on all patients at baseline and after treatment. Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System (POP-Q) system was applied to physical examination, and vaginal manometer to examine the strength of voluntary contractions of the pelvic floor muscles.ResultsThe VLQ score was gradually increased after RF treatment at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months, accompanying by the significant improvement in total FSFI scores and the six domains (sexual desire, sexual arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, pain). The increased sexual satisfaction based on the SSQ score was found after temperature-controlled RF. The result of POP-Q stage showed significant difference in women after treatment, with the women having Stage I of 45.10% at baseline, 36.27% at 1 month, 28.43% at 3 months, 19.61% at 6 months and 10.78% at 12 months. The mean pressure and mean duration of pelvic contractions were increased gradually at the 1-, 3-, 6- and 12- month follow-up.ConclusionTemperature controlled dual-mode (monopolar and bipolar) radiofrequency may be associated with improvement of vaginal laxity, and contribute to enhancement to female sexual function and pelvic floor muscles.