Sexual health and intimacy

أَئِنَّكُمۡ لَتَأۡتُونَ ٱلرِّجَالَ شَهۡوَةࣰ مِّن دُونِ ٱلنِّسَآءِۚ بَلۡ أَنتُمۡ قَوۡمࣱ تَجۡهَلُونَ

How can you lust after men instead of women? What fools you are!’

إِنَّكُمۡ لَتَأۡتُونَ ٱلرِّجَالَ شَهۡوَةࣰ مِّن دُونِ ٱلنِّسَآءِۚ بَلۡ أَنتُمۡ قَوۡمࣱ مُّسۡرِفُونَ

You lust after men rather than women! You transgress all bounds!’

What! Do you read a-innakum pronouncing both hamzas or by not pronouncing the second and inserting an alif between the two in both cases come unto men in lust instead of women? Nay but you are truly a people in ignorance’ of the consequence of your action.

Do you read a-innakum pronouncing both hamzas or by not pronouncing the second one but in both cases inserting an alif between the two; a variant reading has innakum ‘indeed you … ’ come lustfully to men instead of women? Nay you are a wanton folk’ transgressing the bounds going from what is lawful to what is unlawful.

And (remember) Lut! When he said to his people: "Do you commit immoral sins while you see? (54)"Do you practice your lusts on men instead of women? Nay, but you are a people who behave senselessly. (55)There was no other answer given by his people except that they said: "Drive out the family of Lut from your city. Verily, these are men who want to be clean and pure! (56)So, We saved him and his family, except his wife. We destined her to be of those who remained behind (57)And We rained down on them a rain. So, evil was the rain of those who were warned (58) Lut and His People Allah tells us about His servant and Messenger Lut, peace be upon him, and how he warned his people of Allah's punishment for committing an act of immorality which no human ever committed before them – intercourse with males instead of females. This is a major sin, whereby men are satisfied with men and women are

And (remember) Lut, when he said to his people: "Do you commit lewdness such as none preceding you has committed in all of the nations (80)"Verily, you practice your lusts on men instead of women. Nay, but you are a people transgressing beyond bounds. (81) Allah said, We sent, وَ (And) لُوطًا إِذْ قَالَ لِقَوْمِهِ (Lut, when he said to his people..) Lut (Lot) is the son of Haran the son of Azar (Terah), and he was the nephew of Ibrahim, peace be upon them both. Lut had believed in Ibrahim and migrated with him to the Sham area. Allah then sent Lut to the people of Sadum (Sodom) and the surrounding villages, to call them to Allah, enjoin righteousness and forbid them from their evil practices, their sin, and wickedness. It this area, they did things that none of the children of Adam or any other creatures ever did before them. They used to have sexual intercourse with males instead o

حَدَّثَنَا أَحْمَدُ بْنُ مَنِيعٍ، حَدَّثَنَا إِسْمَاعِيلُ بْنُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، حَدَّثَنَا عَلِيُّ بْنُ زَيْدٍ، عَنْ سَعِيدِ بْنِ الْمُسَيَّبِ، عَنْ عَلِيِّ بْنِ أَبِي طَالِبٍ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ إِنَّ اللَّهَ حَرَّمَ مِنَ الرَّضَاعِ مَا حَرَّمَ مِنَ النَّسَبِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ وَفِي الْبَابِ عَنْ عَائِشَةَ وَابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ وَأُمِّ حَبِيبَةَ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو عِيسَى حَدِيثُ عَلِيٍّ حَسَنٌ صَحِيحٌ ‏.‏

Ali (bin Abi Talib) narrated that The Messenger of Allah said:“Indeed Allah has made unlawful through suckling whatever He made unlawful through lineage.”

حَدَّثَنَا بُنْدَارٌ، حَدَّثَنَا يَحْيَى بْنُ سَعِيدٍ الْقَطَّانُ، حَدَّثَنَا مَالِكٌ، ح وَحَدَّثَنَا إِسْحَاقُ بْنُ مُوسَى الأَنْصَارِيُّ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا مَعْنٌ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا مَالِكٌ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ دِينَارٍ، عَنْ سُلَيْمَانَ بْنِ يَسَارٍ، عَنْ عُرْوَةَ بْنِ الزُّبَيْرِ، عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، قَالَتْ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ إِنَّ اللَّهَ حَرَّمَ مِنَ الرَّضَاعَةِ مَا حَرَّمَ مِنَ الْوِلاَدَةِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو عِيسَى هَذَا حَدِيثٌ حَسَنٌ صَحِيحٌ ‏.‏ وَالْعَمَلُ عَلَى هَذَا عِنْدَ أَهْلِ الْعِلْمِ مِنْ أَصْحَابِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَغَيْرِهِمْ لاَ نَعْلَمُ بَيْنَهُمْ فِي ذَلِكَ اخْتِلاَفًا ‏.‏

Aishah narrated that the Messenger of Allah said:“Indeed Allah has made unlawful through suckling whatever He made unlawful through birth.”

حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ يُوسُفَ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا مَالِكٌ، عَنْ هِشَامِ بْنِ عُرْوَةَ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، قَالَتْ كُنْتُ أُرَجِّلُ رَأْسَ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَأَنَا حَائِضٌ‏.‏

Narrated `Aisha:While in menses, I used to comb the hair of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)

حَدَّثَنَا إِبْرَاهِيمُ بْنُ مُوسَى، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنَا هِشَامُ بْنُ يُوسُفَ، أَنَّ ابْنَ جُرَيْجٍ، أَخْبَرَهُمْ قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي هِشَامٌ، عَنْ عُرْوَةَ، أَنَّهُ سُئِلَ أَتَخْدُمُنِي الْحَائِضُ أَوْ تَدْنُو مِنِّي الْمَرْأَةُ وَهْىَ جُنُبٌ فَقَالَ عُرْوَةُ كُلُّ ذَلِكَ عَلَىَّ هَيِّنٌ، وَكُلُّ ذَلِكَ تَخْدُمُنِي، وَلَيْسَ عَلَى أَحَدٍ فِي ذَلِكَ بَأْسٌ، أَخْبَرَتْنِي عَائِشَةُ أَنَّهَا كَانَتْ تُرَجِّلُ ـ تَعْنِي ـ رَأْسَ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَهِيَ حَائِضٌ، وَرَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم حِينَئِذٍ مُجَاوِرٌ فِي الْمَسْجِدِ، يُدْنِي لَهَا رَأْسَهُ وَهْىَ فِي حُجْرَتِهَا، فَتُرَجِّلُهُ وَهْىَ حَائِضٌ‏.‏

Narrated `Urwa:A person asked me, "Can a woman in menses serve me? And can a Junub woman come close to me?" I replied, "All this is easy for me. All of them can serve me, and there is no harm for any other person to do the same. `Aisha told me that she used to comb the hair of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) while she was in her menses, and he was in I`tikaf (in the mosque). He would bring his head near her in her room and she would comb his hair, while she used to be in her menses

أَخْبَرَنَا إِسْحَاقُ بْنُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، قَالَ أَنْبَأَنَا سُفْيَانُ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنِ الْقَاسِمِ بْنِ مُحَمَّدِ بْنِ أَبِي بَكْرٍ الصِّدِّيقِ، - رضى الله عنه - عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، قَالَتْ خَرَجْنَا مَعَ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم لاَ نُرَى إِلاَّ الْحَجَّ فَلَمَّا كُنَّا بِسَرِفَ حِضْتُ فَدَخَلَ عَلَىَّ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم وَأَنَا أَبْكِي فَقَالَ ‏"‏ مَا لَكِ أَنَفِسْتِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قُلْتُ نَعَمْ ‏.‏ قَالَ ‏"‏ هَذَا أَمْرٌ كَتَبَهُ اللَّهُ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ عَلَى بَنَاتِ آدَمَ فَاقْضِي مَا يَقْضِي الْحَاجُّ غَيْرَ أَنْ لاَ تَطُوفِي بِالْبَيْتِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

It was narrated that 'Aishah said:"We went out with the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) with no intention other than Hajj. When he was in Sarif I began menstruating. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) entered upon me and I was weeping. He said: 'What is the matter with you? Has you Nifas begun?' I said: 'Yes.' He said: 'This is something that Allah the Mighty and Sublime has decreed for the daughters of Adam. Do what the pilgrims do but do not perform Tawaf around the House

أَخْبَرَنَا عِمْرَانُ بْنُ يَزِيدَ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا إِسْمَاعِيلُ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، - وَهُوَ ابْنُ سَمَاعَةَ - قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا الأَوْزَاعِيُّ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا يَحْيَى بْنُ سَعِيدٍ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي هِشَامُ بْنُ عُرْوَةَ، عَنْ عُرْوَةَ، أَنَّ فَاطِمَةَ بِنْتَ قَيْسٍ، مِنْ بَنِي أَسَدِ قُرَيْشٍ أَنَّهَا أَتَتْ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم فَذَكَرَتْ أَنَّهَا تُسْتَحَاضُ فَزَعَمَتْ أَنَّهُ قَالَ لَهَا ‏ "‏ إِنَّمَا ذَلِكِ عِرْقٌ فَإِذَا أَقْبَلَتِ الْحَيْضَةُ فَدَعِي الصَّلاَةَ وَإِذَا أَدْبَرَتْ فَاغْتَسِلِي وَاغْسِلِي عَنْكِ الدَّمَ ثُمَّ صَلِّي ‏"‏ ‏.‏

It was narrated from Fatimah bint Qais from Banu Asad Quraish that she came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and mentioned that she suffered from Istihadah. She said that he said to her:"That is a vein, so when the time of menstruation comes, stop praying, and when it goes, take your bath and wash the blood from yourself then pray

ونضرب لك مثالا، فنقول: إذا افتقر الإنسان إلى الصبر عن شهوة الجماع، وقد غلبت عليه بحيث لا يملك فرجه ولا عينه ولا قلبه، فعلاج ذلك بثلاثة أشياء:

وقصر بقوم في خلطة الناس حتى اعتزلوهم في الطاعات كالجمعة والجماعات والجهاد وتعلم العلم وتجاوز بقوم حتى خالطوهم في الظلم والمعاصي والآثام

وقال أيضا : من ترك قراءة القرآن ولزوم الجماعات وحضور الجنائز وعيادة المرضى وادعى بهذا الشأن فهو مدع

قال وربما شغله بوسواسه حتى تفوته الجماعة وربما فاته الوقت ويشغله بوسوسته في النية حتى تفوته التكبيرة الأولى وربما فوت عليه ركعة أو أكثر ومنهم من يحلف أنه لا يزيد على هذا ثم يكذب

وكذلك عزمه على تحريق المتخلفين عن الصلاة معه في الجماعة ولم يقل لو قضى لهم الصلاة لكانت

وأعمال الجوارح كالصلاة والجهاد ونقل الأقدام إلى الجمعة والجماعات ومساعدة العاجز والإحسان إلى الخلق ونحو ذلك

Gender differences in pornography use and sexual health outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.: Background: Pornography consumption is increasingly prevalent worldwide, yet its gender-specific associations with sexual health outcomes remain poorly understood. Aim: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate gender differences in pornography use and its associations with sexual function, sexual satisfaction, masturbation frequency, and psychological parameters among adult men and women. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 statement, systematic searches were conducted across PubMed

Couple-Based Psychosexual Support Following Prostate Cancer Surgery: Results of a Feasibility Pilot Randomized Control Trial.: Introduction: Surgery for prostate cancer can result in distressing side effects such as sexual difficulties, which are associated with lower levels of dyadic functioning. The study developed and tested an intervention to address sexual, relational, and emotional aspects of the relationship after prostate cancer by incorporating elements of family systems theory and sex therapy. Aims: To develop and test the feasibility and acceptability of relational psychosexual treatment for couples with pros

INFERTILITY AND SEXUAL DYSFUNCTIONS: A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW.: This study aimed to investigate whether infertility and its treatment affect couple sexuality. A systematic literature review was performed, focusing on female and male sexual dysfunctions due to infertility. The method was descriptive, using a meta-synthesis of scientific research published between 2012 and 2017 in the English language. The search for suitable studies was carried out with the research databases Medline, CINAHL, PubMed and ScienceDirect using the following keywords: infertility,

Sexual dysfunction related to psychiatric disorders: a systematic review.: Background: Sexual dysfunction is thought to be highly prevalent in patients with psychiatric disorders. Factors such as the use of psychotropic substances (ie, psychopharmaceuticals and drugs), age, or somatic diseases may contribute to sexual problems, but the extent to which psychopathology itself affects sexual functioning is not well understood. Aim: The study sought to provide an overview of the literature on the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in psychotropic-free and somatic disease-fre

Psychological and Interpersonal Dimensions of Sexual Function and Dysfunction.: Introduction: Psychological, interpersonal, and sociocultural factors play a significant role in making one vulnerable to developing a sexual concern, in triggering the onset of a sexual difficulty, and in maintaining sexual dysfunction in the long term. Aim: To focus on psychological and interpersonal aspects of sexual functioning in women and men after a critical review of the literature from 2010 to the present. Methods: This report is part 1 of 2 of our collaborative work during the 2015 Int

Meta-analysis of Results of Testosterone Therapy on Sexual Function Based on International Index of Erectile Function Scores.: Context: The interpretation of available clinical evidence related to the effect of testosterone (T) treatment (TTh) on sexual function has been inconsistent, in part due to the use of different and self-reported measures to assess outcomes. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is the most frequently used validated tool to assess male sexual function. Objective: To perform a meta-analysis of available data evaluating the effect of TTh on male sexual function using IIEF as the prim

Psychological and Behavioral Treatment of Female Orgasmic Disorder.

Introduction: Female orgasmic disorder (FOD) is defined as the absence, delay, infrequency, or marked diminishment in intensity of orgasm in at least 75% of sexual experiences, persisting for at least 6 months and causing distress, has specified subtypes, and affects up to 28% of women in the United States and up to 46% in countries across Asia. Orgasmic difficulties are relatively common and create distress for a substantial number of women, though efficacious treatments exist. Objective: This article provides a review of psychological treatment of FOD. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PsycINFO to identify research reporting methods and outcomes of psychological treatment of FOD in peer-reviewed journals and textbooks. Search terms were female orgasmic disorder, anorgasmia, female sexual dysfunction, and orgasm. This search was supplemented with hand-searching references…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh), Coitus (mesh), Orgasm (mesh)

Perpetrator Risk Markers for Intimate Terrorism and Situational Couple Violence: A Meta-Analysis.

Johnson developed a typology of intimate partner violence (IPV) which includes two different categories of violence: situational couple violence (SCV) and intimate terrorism (IT). Johnson proposed that IT is more likely to be found in clinical samples (e.g., batterer intervention programs or domestic violence shelters) compared to nonclinical (general population) samples. This meta-analysis (n = 149 studies; k = 216 effect sizes) examines differences in the strengths of IPV risk markers in clinical and nonclinical samples of male perpetrators and female victims. All variables (communication and conflict resolution, demand-withdraw patterns, relationship dissatisfaction, controlling behaviors, jealousy, patriarchal beliefs, power in the relationship, and stalking) were expected to be significantly related to IPV for both clinical and nonclinical populations. However, specific variables in…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Partners (mesh)

Development and Validation of a Brief Measure of Sexual Wellbeing for Population Surveys: The Natsal Sexual Wellbeing Measure (Natsal-SW).

Sexual wellbeing is an important aspect of population health. Addressing and monitoring it as a distinct issue requires valid measures. Our previous conceptual work identified seven domains of sexual wellbeing: security; respect; self-esteem; resilience; forgiveness; self-determination; and comfort. Here, we describe the development and validation of a measure of sexual wellbeing reflecting these domains. Based on the analysis of 40 semi-structured interviews, we operationalized domains into items, and refined them via cognitive interviews, workshops, and expert review. We tested the items via two web-based surveys (n = 590; n = 814). Using data from the first survey, we carried out exploratory factor analysis to assess and eliminate poor performing items. Using data from the second survey, we carried out confirmatory factor analysis to examine model fit and associations between the item…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Health (mesh), sexual satisfaction (text)

Correlates of sexual satisfaction among sexually active postmenopausal women in the Women's Health Initiative-Observational Study.

Background: Satisfaction with sexual activity is important for health-related quality of life, but little is known about the sexual health of postmenopausal women. Objective: Describe factors associated with sexual satisfaction among sexually active postmenopausal women. Design: Cross-sectional analysis. Participants: All members of the Women's Health Initiative-Observational Study (WHI-OS), ages 50-79, excluding women who did not respond to the sexual satisfaction question or reported no partnered sexual activity in the past year (N = 46,525). Measurements: Primary outcome: dichotomous response to the question, "How satisfied are you with your sexual activity (satisfied versus unsatisfied)?" Covariates included sociodemographic factors, measures of physical and mental health, and gynecological variables, medications, and health behaviors related to female sexual health. Results: Of the …

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological (mesh), sexual satisfaction (text)

Hands-off: Study protocol of a two-armed randomized controlled trial of a web-based self-help tool to reduce problematic pornography use.

Background and aims: The past-year prevalence of problematic pornography use (PPU) was 1-6% in adult populations. As a result of treatment obstacles and barriers, such as unaffordable treatments, only a minority of problematic pornography users may seek treatment. Having a free, online, self-help program may overcome treatment barriers and may help those individuals who cannot receive traditional or offline treatment for PPU. Although the effectiveness of such online programs reducing substance use and problematic gambling have been reported, no prior study has examined the efficacy of an online self-help intervention aiming to reduce PPU. Methods: This two-armed randomized controlled trial (RCT) will examine the effectiveness of an online self-help program (Hands-off) to reduce PPU, while also considering psychopathological comorbidities. The six-week intervention condition includes six…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Erotica (mesh), sexual satisfaction (text)

What knowledge matters for women's sexual wellbeing? Validating a questionnaire measuring sexual knowledge using public and patient involvement.

Background: Sex education is a known protective factor for female sexual health. However, data on specific aspects of sexual knowledge linked to sexual wellbeing and validated measures are missing. Aim: This study aims to develop and validate a questionnaire measuring specific aspects of sexual knowledge and explore the interplay with sexual wellbeing. Methods: Public & Patient Involvement (PPI) was conducted to identify important aspects of sexual knowledge for sexual wellbeing resulting in a first item set, which was reviewed after a cross-sectional pilot study in cisgender women (N = 449). The respective items were subject to Exploratory Factor Analysis. For the main analysis, the resulting questionnaire was distributed in a cross-sectional survey alongside items on sources of sex education and validated questionnaires assessing aspects of sexual wellbeing. We performed Confirmatory F…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Health (mesh), sexual desire (text)

Changes in sexual functioning and sex hormone levels in women following bariatric surgery.

Importance: Obesity has been associated with impairments in sexual function and untoward changes in reproductive hormones in women. Relatively few studies have investigated changes in these domains following bariatric surgery. Objective: To investigate changes in sexual functioning, sex hormone levels, and relevant psychosocial constructs in women who underwent bariatric surgery. Design, setting, and participants: A prospective cohort study of 106 women from phase 2 of the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery who underwent bariatric surgery (median [interquartile range] body mass index, 44.5 [41.4-49.7]). Assessments were completed between 2006 and 2012. Interventions: Bariatric surgery was performed by a surgeon certified by the Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery (85 women underwent a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and 21 women underwent laparoscopic adjustable gastric band…

matched on Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological (mesh), Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh)

Identifying the needs of penile cancer sufferers: a systematic review of the quality of life, psychosexual and psychosocial literature in penile cancer.

Background: Penile cancer is an uncommon malignancy with an incidence of 1 per 100,000. Conservative and radical treatments can be disfiguring and may have an impact on sexual function, quality of life (QOL), social interactions, self-image and self-esteem. Knowledge of how this disease affects patients is paramount to developing a global, multi-disciplinary approach to treatment. Methods: A Medline/PubMed literature search was conducted using the terms "sexual function penis cancer"; "quality of life penis cancer" and "psychological effects penis cancer" from 1985 to 2008. Articles containing quantitative data on QOL, sexual function or psychological well-being were included. Results: 128 patients from 6 studies were included. 5 studies contained retrospective data whilst 1 study collected prospective data on erectile function. In the 6 studies 13 different quantitative tools were used …

matched on Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh), sexual satisfaction (text)

Female Sexual Dysfunction Among Muslim Women: Increasing Awareness to Improve Overall Evaluation and Treatment.

Introduction: Muslim women are an increasingly underserved population in the United States and worldwide. Diagnosis and treatment of female sexual dysfunction bring unique challenges because of the conservative nature of those practicing the religion. Several cultural and religious codes of conduct affect sexual behavior and the dysfunction that can ensue. Aim: To assess and describe the types of sexual dysfunction that have been found in Muslim women internationally and encourage a better understanding of their issues to enhance health care delivery. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature through Ovid and PubMed was performed in search of articles reviewing female sexual dysfunction, Muslim women, and Islam. Main outcome measures: A brief explanation and review of the interpretations of sexuality within Islam are discussed. The link is made between conservative sexual relatio…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological (mesh), Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh)

Sexual and reproductive issues and inflammatory bowel disease: a neglected topic in men.

There has been considerable literature on sexual issues in women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), but relatively little attention has been paid to these aspects in men. To review the available literature and to provide the best management of sexual and reproductive issues in male patients with IBD. The scientific literature on sexual and reproductive issues in men with IBD was reviewed. Several factors, including surgical and medication treatments, disease activity, lifestyle, and psychological factors, may play a role in the development of infertility and sexual dysfunction and may negatively impact pregnancy outcomes. Proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis increases the risk of erectile and ejaculatory dysfunction by up to 26%. A treatment with sildenafil can be effective. Sperm banking should be advised to young men with IBD before surgery. Both sulfasalazine and meth…

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A biopsychosocial approach to women's sexual function and dysfunction at midlife: A narrative review.

A satisfying sex life is an important component of overall well-being, but sexual dysfunction is common, especially in midlife women. The aim of this review is (a) to define sexual function and dysfunction, (b) to present theoretical models of female sexual response, (c) to examine longitudinal studies of how sexual function changes during midlife, and (d) to review treatment options. Four types of female sexual dysfunction are currently recognized: Female Orgasmic Disorder, Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder, Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder, and Substance/Medication-Induced Sexual Dysfunction. However, optimal sexual function transcends the simple absence of dysfunction. A biopsychosocial approach that simultaneously considers physical, psychological, sociocultural, and interpersonal factors is necessary to guide research and clinical care regarding women's sexual function.…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological (mesh), Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh)

Sex after childbirth: postpartum sexual function.

Pregnancy and childbirth bring many changes to the health and well-being of new mothers. Postpartum sexual health is a common concern that is often not discussed during prenatal or postpartum care and has received little attention from either clinicians or researchers. In this article, we review current theories of female sexual response, the epidemiology of postpartum sexual dysfunction, and the use of screening tools to identify women with sexual health concerns. Specifically, we present a review of published data regarding the effect of mode of delivery, perineal lacerations, postpartum depression, and breastfeeding on postpartum sexual activity and function. Finally, suggestions for how to screen for and approach the treatment of postpartum sexual problems are presented.

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological (mesh), Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh)

The epidemiology of sexual dysfunctions.

Introduction: Epidemiology can be defined as the population study of the occurrence of health and disease. The knowledge of the rates of occurrence of sexual dysfunctions and the primary risk factors for these conditions is very important to assist in assessing the risk and planning treatment and prevention programs in sexual medicine. Aim: Review modern studies of the prevalence and incidence of sexual dysfunction in an effort to establish a consensus concerning the frequency of occurrence of these conditions, and review the strengths and liabilities of design methodology in the field. Main outcome measure: Review of peer-reviewed literature. Results: The findings suggest that sexual dysfunctions are highly prevalent in our society worldwide, and that the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions increases directly with age for both men and women. There is also a strong support for the finding …

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological (mesh), Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh)

The health consequences of child marriage: a systematic review of the evidence.

Background: Child marriage, defined as marriage before 18 years of age, is a violation of human rights and a marker of gender inequality. Growing attention to this issue on the global development agenda also reflects concerns that it may negatively impact health. We conducted a systematic review to synthesize existing research on the consequences of child marriage on health and to assess the risk of bias in this body of literature. Methods and findings: We searched databases focused on biomedicine and global health for studies that estimated the effect of marrying before the age of 18 on any physical or mental health outcome or health behaviour. We identified 58 eligible articles, nearly all of which relied on cross-sectional data sources from sub-Saharan Africa or South Asia. The most studied health outcomes were indicators of fertility and fertility control, maternal health care, and i…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Contraception (mesh)

Women's Subjective Experiences of Living with Vulvodynia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Ethnography.

Vulvodynia, the experience of an idiopathic pain in the form of burning, soreness, or throbbing in the vulval area, affects around 4-16% of the population. The current review used systematic search strategies and meta-ethnography as a means of identifying, analyzing, and synthesizing the existing literature pertaining to women's subjective experiences of living with vulvodynia. Four key concepts were identified: (1) Social Constructions: Sex, Women, and Femininity: Women experienced negative consequences of social narratives around womanhood, sexuality, and femininity, including the prioritization of penetrative sex, the belief that it is the role of women to provide sex for men, and media portrayals of sex as easy and natural. (2) Seeking Help: Women experienced the healthcare system as dismissive, sometimes being prescribed treatments that exacerbated the experience of pain. (3) Psycho…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Heterosexuality (mesh)

A review of interventions with parents to promote the sexual health of their children.

Purpose: To assess the effectiveness of interventions involving parents or carers intended to improve the sexual health of their children. Methods: Eleven databases were searched for evaluations of interventions with some parental involvement and with outcomes related to the sexual health of the parents' children. Studies had to be experimental, quasi-experimental, or of the before-and-after type. Results were analyzed in a narrative systematic review, taking account of methodological quality. Results: We identified adequately robust evaluations of 44 programs, delivered in diverse settings. In nearly all cases, the parenting component focused on improving parent-child communication about sex. In general, where measured, parent-child interaction and adolescents' knowledge and attitudes improved, but sexual behavior outcomes only improved in approximately half the studies. Three programs …

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Reproductive Health (mesh)

Labor migration and HIV risk: a systematic review of the literature.

To inform the development of multilevel strategies for addressing HIV risk among labor migrants, 97 articles from the health and social science literatures were systematically reviewed. The study locations were Africa (23 %), the Americas (26 %), Europe (7 %), South East Asia (21 %), and Western Pacific (24 %). Among the studies meeting inclusion criteria, HIV risk was associated with multilevel determinants at the levels of policy, sociocultural context, health and mental health, and sexual practices. The policy determinants most often associated with HIV risk were: prolonged and/or frequent absence, financial status, and difficult working and housing conditions. The sociocultural context determinants most often associated with HIV risk were: cultural norms, family separation, and low social support. The health and mental health factors most often associated with HIV risk were: substanc…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Partners (mesh)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Problematic Internet Pornography Use: A Randomized Trial.

Problematic Internet pornography use is the inability to control the use of pornography, the experience of negative cognitions or emotions regarding pornography use, and the resulting negative effects on quality of life or general functioning. This study compared a 12-session individual protocol of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for problematic Internet pornography use to a waitlist control condition with 28 adult males, all but 1 of whom were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Measures of self-reported pornography viewing, standardized measures of compulsive sexual behavior and related cognitions, and quality of life occurred at pretreatment, posttreatment, and 3-month follow-up. Results demonstrate significant between-condition reductions in pornography viewing compared to the waitlist condition (93% reduction ACT vs. 21% waitlist). When combining all …

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Erotica (mesh)

Escitalopram administered in the luteal phase exerts a marked and dose-dependent effect in premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

This is the first placebo-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), escitalopram, in the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Women with PMDD (intention-to-treat population, n = 151) were treated intermittently for 3 months, during luteal phases only, with 10 mg/d escitalopram, 20 mg/d escitalopram, or placebo. Escitalopram was found to exert a marked and a dose-dependent symptom-reducing effect, 20 mg/d being clearly superior to 10 mg/d. Although the primary outcome parameter, that is, the sum of the symptoms irritability, depressed mood, tension, and affective lability, was decreased by 90% with 20 mg/d escitalopram, the effect of active treatment on breast tenderness, food craving, and lack of energy was more modest and not significantly different from that of placebo; this outcome supports our previous assumption th…

matched on Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh), Libido (mesh)

The acute effects of intranasal oxytocin administration on endocrine and sexual function in males.

The role of the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT) ranges from the modulation of neuroendocrine physiological effects to the establishment of complex social and bonding behaviours. Experimental studies in animals, as well as case reports in humans, suggest that OT affects different aspects of sexual behaviour and has predominantly facilitating properties for sexual appetence and performance. Using a previously established experimental paradigm of sexual arousal and masturbation-induced orgasm, this study investigated the acute effects of intranasal OT application (24I.U.) on endocrine parameters and measures of sexual appetence and function in healthy men (n=10). In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, balanced cross-over design, sexual arousal, and orgasm were induced by an erotic film and masturbation. In addition to the continuous recording of endocrine (OT, cortisol, prolactin, epinephrine, n…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Orgasm (mesh)

Assessment of sexual and emotional distress in infertile couple: validation of a new specific psychometric tool.

Background: The diagnosis of infertility strongly impacts on psychological and sexological couple health. In this regard, some feelings and psychological states were demonstrated in association with reproductive problems. Depression and anxiety are the most common psychopathologies associated with infertility, although also sexuality is strongly involved in infertility conditions. Objectives: The aim of this study is to develop a tool to probe and assess the emotional aspects, sexuality, and social relationships of the couple seeking medical care for infertility. Materials and methods: A self-reported questionnaire that we will refer to as SEIq (Sexuality and Emotions in Infertility questionnaire) was constructed and developed and, consequently, administered to 162 heterosexual couples (324 subjects) seeking help for reproductive problems. Hence, we performed a specific statistical analy…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh), Sexuality (keyword)

Tadalafil for prevention of erectile dysfunction after radiotherapy for prostate cancer: the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group [0831] randomized clinical trial.

Importance: Tadalafil is used to treat erectile dysfunction after prostate cancer treatment, but its role as a preventive agent is undefined. Objectives: To determine primarily whether tadalafil preserved erectile function in men treated with radiotherapy for prostate cancer, and secondarily to determine whether participant- or partner-reported overall sexual function and sexual and marital satisfaction were affected. Design, setting, and participants: Stratified, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study with 1:1 randomization at 76 community-based and tertiary medical sites in the United States and Canada. Two hundred forty-two participants with intact erectile function scheduled to receive radiotherapy for prostate cancer were recruited between November 2009 and February 2012 with follow-up through March 2013. Interventions: One hundred twenty-one participants were assign…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), sexual satisfaction (text)

A comparison of cognitive-behavioral couple therapy and lidocaine in the treatment of provoked vestibulodynia: study protocol for a randomized clinical trial.

Background: Provoked vestibulodynia (PVD), a frequent form of chronic genital pain, is associated with decreased sexual function for afflicted women, as well as impoverished sexual satisfaction for women and their partners. Pain and sexuality outcomes for couples with PVD are influenced by interpersonal factors, such as pain catastrophizing, partner responses to pain, ambivalence over emotional expression, attachment style and perceived relationship and sexual intimacy. Despite recommendations in the literature to include the partner in cognitive-behavioral therapy targeted at improving pain and sexuality outcomes, no randomized clinical trial has tested the efficacy of this type of intervention and compared it to a first-line medical intervention. Methods: This bi-center, randomized clinical trial is designed to examine the efficacy of cognitive-behavioral couple therapy compared to top…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), sexual satisfaction (text)

The State of Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health.

In the 25 years since the 1994 International Conference on Population and Development, significant progress has been made in adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights (ASRHR). Trend analysis of key ASRHR indicators at global, national, and subnational levels indicates that adolescent girls today are more likely to marry later, delay their first sexual experience, and delay their first childbirth, compared with 25 years ago; they are also more likely to use contraceptives. Despite overall progress, however, unequal progress in many ASRHR outcomes is evident both within and between countries, and in some locations, the state of adolescents' lives has worsened. Population growth in countries with some of the worst shortfalls in ASRHR mean that declining rates, of child marriage, for example, coexist with higher absolute numbers of girls affected, compared with 25 years ago. Emerg…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Health (mesh), Pregnancy in Adolescence (mesh), Reproductive Health (mesh)

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD): Prevalence and impact on quality of life (QoL).

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) and quality of life (QOL) are both multidimensional and have a bidirectional relationship across the reproductive life span and beyond. Methodological difficulties exist in estimating the real prevalence of FSD because it is hard to determine the level of distress associated with sexual symptoms in a large-scale survey. Approximately 40-50% of all women report at least one sexual symptom, and some conditions associated with hormonal changes at menopause, such as vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) and hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD), have a significant impact on sexual function and QOL. Sexual distress peaks at midlife, declines with age and is strongly partner-related. Many postmenopausal women are still sexually active, especially if they are in a stable partnership. Even though sexual functioning is impaired, a variety of psychosocial factors may mainta…

matched on Sexual Behavior (mesh), Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological (mesh), sexual satisfaction (text), sexual desire (text)