Costs of pleasure and the benefits of pain: self-perceived genital sensation, anatomy and sexual dysfunction

Sexual Health ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 13 (1) ◽  
pp. 63
Author(s):  
Nina Callens ◽  
Guy Bronselaer ◽  
Petra De Sutter ◽  
Griet De Cuypere ◽  
Guy T'Sjoen ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Sexual Experience ◽  
Sexual Pleasure ◽  
P Value ◽  
Self Assessment ◽  
Web Based ◽  
Sexual Distress ◽  
Distress Scale ◽  
Genital Sensation

Background Research has highlighted the complex association between female sexual dysfunction (FSD) and distress regarding sexual activity, with decreased physical pleasure being an important mediator. The current study aims to elucidate the association between pleasurable and painful genital sensitivity and FSD, and to further investigate whether FSD may be distressing because it prevents the experience of sexual pleasure, induces pain or both. Methods: Sexually active women (n = 256; median, 22 years; range, 18–49 years) completed web-based questionnaires, including the Self-Assessment of Genital Anatomy and Sexual Function, the Female Sexual Function Index and the Female Sexual Distress Scale. Results: Women reported their clitoris to be more sensitive than their vagina in terms of having more pleasurable responses (P < 0.001), but not more painful responses (P = 0.49). In women with FSD (n = 36), impaired self-perceived genital sensation was found: they reported significantly less sexual pleasure and orgasm intensity, and more orgasm effort and discomfort within the clitoral and vaginal area than women without FSD (n = 220) (P-value < 0.05). The odds of having FSD were significantly greater in women with perceived increased discomfort in the vaginal area during stimulation (odds ratio = 5.59, P = 0.009, 95% confidence interval: 1.53–20.39), but not in the clitoral area. Conclusions: The data provide evidence of the relevance of self-perceived genital sensitivity to sexual pleasure and overall sexual experience. Enhancing the pleasurableness of genital sensations, especially during partnered sex, could decrease the likelihood of experiencing pain and concomitant FSD.

scholarly journals Impact of an Educational Program on Sexual Issues among Cervical Cancer Survivors' Women in Northern Upper Egypt

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (1) ◽  
pp. 01-15
Author(s):  
Hanan Elzeblawy Hassan ◽  
Ragaa Mohammed ◽  
Soad Ramadan ◽  
Hagar Masaud
Keyword(s):  
Cervical Cancer ◽  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Cancer Survivors ◽  
Educational Program ◽  
Gynecological Cancer ◽  
Upper Egypt ◽  
Sexual Distress ◽  
Distress Scale ◽  
The Impact

Background: Sexuality is an important part of normal human functioning. Gynecological cancer and its treatments can affect one or more phases of the sexual response cycle, through alterations of sexual function. Sexual dysfunction is one of the most distressful symptoms among cervical cancer survivors. Sexual distress is a broad term encompassing any sexual discomfort and dysfunction. Sexual difficulties following cervical cancer can be stressful for couples as it can feel like a core part of the relationship has disappeared. Aim: The study is conducted to evaluate the impact of an educational program on sexual issues (sexual dysfunction & sexual distress) among cervical cancer survivors' women in Northern Upper Egypt. Methods; Design: A quasi-experimental design. Setting: out-patient clinic in the oncology unit at Beni-Suef University Hospital. Subjects: A purposive sample of 70 women. Tools: structured interviewing questionnaire sheet, female sexual function index, and female sexual distress scale. Results: The results of the study revealed regression of all items of women’s sexual distress scores, and progression of all items of women’s sexual items post-program compared to pre-one. Conclusion: The teaching program was very effective in improving sexuality among cervical cancer survivors' women. Recommendations: Disseminate the educational booklet at health centers and oncology outpatients. Integrate psychologist, psychosexual specialist, and social worker in treatment and counseling program for women with cervical cancer in the early stage of their treatment.

scholarly journals The evolution of the female sexual response concept: Treatment implications

2013 ◽  
Vol 141 (3-4) ◽  
pp. 268-274 ◽  
Author(s):  
Aleksandar Damjanovic ◽  
Dragana Duisin ◽  
Jasmina Barisic
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Sexual Experience ◽  
Sexual Response ◽  
Sexual Disorders ◽  
Critical Question ◽  
Circular Model ◽  
Sexual Distress ◽  
Female Sexual Response ◽  
The Relationship

Sexual dysfunctions have been the most prevalent group of sexual disorders and include a large number of populations of both sexes. The research of sexual behavior and treatment of women with sexual distress arises many questions related to differences in sexual response of men and women. The conceptualization of this response in modern sexology has changed over time. The objective of our paper was to present the changes and evolution of the female?s sexual response concept in a summarized and integrated way, to analyze the expanded and revised definitions of the female sexual response as well as implications and recommendations of new approaches to diagnostics and treatment according to the established changes. The lack of adequate empirical basis of the female sexual response model is a critical question in the literature dealing with this issue. Some articles report that linear models demonstrate more correctly and precisely the sexual response of women with normal sexual functions in relation to women with sexual dysfunction. Modification of this model later resulted in a circular model which more adequately presented the sexual response of women with sexual function disorder than of women with normal sexual function. The nonlinear model of female sexual response constructed by Basson incorporates the value of emotional intimacy, sexual stimulus and satisfaction with the relationship. Female functioning is significantly affected by multiple psychosocial factors such as satisfaction with the relationship, self-image, earlier negative sexual experience, etc. Newly revised, expanded definitions of female sexual dysfunction try to contribute to new knowledge about a highly contextual nature of woman?s sexuality so as to enhance clinical treatment of dysfunctions. The definitions emphasize the evaluation of the context of women?s problematic sexual experiences.

scholarly journals Female Sexual Dysfunction in Primary Adrenal Insufficiency

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (13) ◽  
pp. 2767
Author(s):  
Virginia Zamponi ◽  
Pina Lardo ◽  
Roberta Maggio ◽  
Chiara Simonini ◽  
Rossella Mazzilli ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Adrenal Insufficiency ◽  
Replacement Therapy ◽  
Female Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Primary Adrenal Insufficiency ◽  
Healthy Women ◽  
Sexual Distress ◽  
Cortisol Levels ◽  
Distress Scale

Purpose. No data are currently available on female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in primary adrenal insufficiency (PAI) and the possible impact of replacement therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of FSD and sexual distress (SD), and to evaluate the possible impact of replacement therapy on sexuality in women with PAI. Methods. Female Sexual Function Index-6 (FSFI-6) and Sexual Distress Scale (SDS) questionnaires were administered to 22 women with PAI and 23 healthy women matched for age as controls. Results. The prevalence of sexual symptoms measured by FSFI-6 (total score < 19) was significantly higher in women with PAI (15/22; 68.2%) compared to the controls (2/23; 8.7%; p = 0.001). Regarding the questionnaire items, significantly different scores were found for desire (p < 0.001), arousal (p = 0.0006), lubrication (p = 0.046) and overall sexual satisfaction (p < 0.0001) in women with PAI compared to the controls. The rate of FSD (FSFI < 19 with SDS >15) was 60% in patients with PAI. A significant inverse correlation was found between FSFI-6 total scores and SD (r = −0.65; p = 0.0011), while a significant direct correlation was found between FSFI-6 total scores and serum cortisol levels (r = 0.55; p = 0.035). Conclusions. A higher prevalence of FSD was found in women affected by PAI compared to healthy women. Desire seems to be the most impaired aspect of sexual function. Moreover, sexual dysfunction in this population seems to be related to sexual distress and cortisol levels.

scholarly journals The effect of PLISSIT based counseling model on sexual function, quality of life, and sexual distress in women surviving breast cancer: a single-group pretest–posttest trial

2021 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Zohreh Keshavarz ◽  
Elham Karimi ◽  
Samira Golezar ◽  
Giti Ozgoli ◽  
Maliheh Nasiri
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
World Health ◽  
Single Group ◽  
Sexual Distress ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Distress Scale

Abstract Background Diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer potentially leads to sexual dysfunction and sexual distress in women and negatively affects their quality of life (QoL). This study aimed at determining the effect of PLISSIT based counseling on sexual function, sexual distress, and QoL in women surviving breast cancer. Methods In this pre-test, post-test, single-group semi-experimental study, 65 women surviving breast cancer who were referred to the selected centers were included in the study via the available sampling method. Data gathering tools included a researcher-made demographic questionnaire, female sexual function index, beck depression inventory-II, State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, World Health Organization QoL-Brief, and Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised. The counseling program (7 sessions 60 min each) was designed based on the PLISSIT model. The sexual function, sexual distress, and QoL were evaluated before, and 2 and 4 weeks after the intervention. To compare the mean scores of variables before and after the intervention, repeated-measured ANOVA was used. Results The findings showed that PLISSIT based counseling significantly reduced sexual distress and increased the scores of QoL and all its domains, as well as sexual function and all its domains in women surviving breast cancer (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the mean scores of variables 2 and 4 weeks after the intervention. Conclusions It seems that PLISSIT based counseling reduces sexual dysfunction and sexual distress and improves the QoL of women surviving breast cancer. So, it is recommended that these counseling programs be integrated into the health care program of this group of women. Trial registration TCTR202103170010, 17 March 2021, Retrospectively registered, at https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/.

scholarly journals Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study

2015 ◽  
Vol 2015 ◽  
pp. 1-9 ◽  
Author(s):  
Swati Dongre ◽  
Deepak Langade ◽  
Sauvik Bhattacharyya
Keyword(s):  
Pilot Study ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Withania Somnifera ◽  
Treated Group ◽  
Root Extract ◽  
Efficacy And Safety ◽  
High Concentration ◽  
Sexual Distress ◽  
Sexual Encounters ◽  
Distress Scale

Background.Many women experience sexual dysfunction where there are orgasm disorders and sexual difficulties. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a herb known to improve the body’s physical and psychological condition.Objective.The purpose of the study was to determine the efficacy and safety of a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract (HCARE) supplementation for improving sexual function in healthy females.Methods.In this pilot study, 50 study subjects were randomized to either (i) HCARE-treated group or (ii) placebo- (starch-) treated group. The subjects consumed either HCARE or placebo capsules of 300mg twice daily for 8 weeks. Sexual function was assessed using two psychometric scales, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) Questionnaire and the Female Sexual Distress Scale (FSDS), and by the number of total and successful sexual encounters.Results.The analysis indicates that treatment with HCARE leads to significantly higher improvement, relative to placebo, in the FSFI Total score (p<0.001), FSFI domain score for “arousal” (p<0.001), “lubrication” (p<0.001), “orgasm” (p=0.004), and “satisfaction” (p<0.001), and also FSDS score (p<0.001) and the number of successful sexual encounters (p<0.001) at the end of the treatment.Conclusions.This study demonstrated that oral administration of HCARE may improve sexual function in healthy women. The present study is registered in the Clinical Trial Registry, Government of India, with a numberCTRI/2015/07/006045.

scholarly journals The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Depression and Sexual Function: Are Pregnant Women Affected More Adversely?

2021 ◽  
Vol 43 (10) ◽  
pp. 765-774
Author(s):  
Ramazan Denizli ◽  
Önder Sakin ◽  
Kazibe Koyuncu ◽  
Nayif Çiçekli ◽  
Nihat Farisoğulları ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Sexual Experience ◽  
Economic Status ◽  
Depression Score ◽  
Income Loss ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Objective To investigate depression and sexual function among pregnant and non-pregnant women throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A total of 188 women, 96 pregnant and 92 non-pregnant were included. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were applied to the participants after obtaining sociodemographic data. Results The depression scores of pregnant and non-pregnant women were similar (p = 0.846). We found that the depression scores were significantly higher among the group of participants who have lower economic status (p = 0.046). Moreover, the depression score was significantly higher among women who lost their income during the pandemic (p = 0.027). The score on the ASEX was significantly higher, and sexual dysfunction was more prevalent among women who have lower levels of schooling and income (p < 0.05). Likewise, the ASEX scores were significantly higher (p = 0.019) among the group who experienced greater income loss throughout the pandemic. Upon comparing the pregnant and non-pregnant groups, we detected that sexual dysfunction had a significantly higher rate among pregnant women (p < 0.001). Conclusion In times of global crisis, such as the current pandemic, low-income families have an increased risk of experiencing depression and sexual dysfunction. When we compared pregnant women with non-pregnant women, depression scores were similar, but pregnant women were at a 6.2 times higher risk of developing sexual dysfunction.

scholarly journals Gestational Diabetes as a Predictor of Sexual Dysfunction in Pregnant Women

2021 ◽  
Vol 31 (2) ◽  
pp. 114-123
Author(s):  
Ommolbanin Zare ◽  
◽  
Masoumeh Simbar ◽  
Giti Ozgoli ◽  
Adeleh Bahar ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Linear Regression ◽  
Gestational Diabetes ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Sampling Method ◽  
Low Risk ◽  
Sexual Distress

Introduction: Pregnancy is associated with changes in sexual function and perhaps many more sexual problems when accompanied by particular disorders such as gestational diabetes. Objective: The present study was conducted to investigate factors associated with sexual functions in women with gestational diabetes. Materials and Methods: The present analytical, cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 women with gestational diabetes (150) and low-risk pregnant women (150) attending clinics affiliated to Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences in the north of Iran in 2019. A multistage cluster random sampling method was used, and samples were selected by convenience sampling method. The study data were collected using a demographic and obstetrics questionnaire, female sexual distress scale-revised, prenatal distress questionnaire, world health organization quality of life questionnaire, depression, anxiety, stress questionnaire, and a female sexual function index. Data analysis was done by descriptive statistics indicators, the Chi-square test, t-test, and multivariate linear regression. Results: The frequency of sexual dysfunction was 87.3% in women with gestational diabetes and 34.67% in low-risk pregnant women. Compared to women with low-risk-pregnancy, women with gestational diabetes reported lower sexual function scores (P=0.001). Women with gestational diabetes experience lower quality of life (P<0.05) than low-risk pregnant women. Besides, women with gestational diabetes experience higher levels of stress (P=0.001), more prenatal concerns (P=0.014), and higher sexual distress (P<0.05). The linear regression test showed that gestational diabetes in pregnant women predicts a significant reduction in sexual desire (β=-0.599; P= 0.001). Conclusion: Gestational diabetes predicts a significant reduction in sexual function during pregnancy due to the physical and psychological effects of gestational diabetes. Thus, it is recommended that pregnant women with gestational diabetes should be trained and counseled about gestational diabetes control and sexual function.

scholarly journals Changes in the motivational component of sexual function in the offspring of rats after prenatal exposure to cholinotropic drugs

2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
pp. 29-36
Author(s):  
Elena V. Stashina ◽  
Artur O. Zelener ◽  
Alekber A. Bairamov ◽  
Petr D. Shabanov
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Dysfunction ◽  
Sexual Function ◽  
Sexual Activity ◽  
Prenatal Exposure ◽  
Sexual Experience ◽  
Male Rats ◽  
Dopaminergic Systems ◽  
The Brain ◽  
Sexually Mature

Prenatal exposure to N-cholinoblocker gangleron and in lesser degree to M-cholinoblocker metamisil leads to significant violations of the motivational component of sexual function in sexually mature offspring of males, expressed in low values of primary sexual activity, and increased latency of the approach and sexual dysfunction after the acquisition of sexual experience. Among the causes of sexual dysfunction in the offspring, it can be noted a change in the hormonal background in male rats, in the form of a significant decrease in the level of the main androgen testosterone, as well as damage in the dopaminergic systems of the brain, manifested by a decrease in dopamine levels.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document