The effectiveness of psycho-educational and cognitive-behavioral counseling on female sexual dysfunction

Abstract Introduction Sexual function is a multidimensional phenomenon that is affected by many biological and psychological factors. Cognitive-behavioral sex therapies are among themost common nonpharmacological approaches to psychosexual problems. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of psychoeducational and cognitive-behavioral counseling on female sexual dysfunction. Methods The present study was a clinical trial with intervention and control groups. The study population consisted of women referring to the general clinic of a governmental hospital in Iran. After completing the demographic questionnaire and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), those who obtained the cutoff score ≤ 28 were contacted and invited to participate in the study. Convenience sampling method was used and 35 subjects were randomly allocated for each group. Eight counseling sessions were held for the intervention group (two/week/1.5 hour). Post-test was taken from both groups after 1 month, and the results were statistically analyzed by PASW Statistics for Windows, Version 18 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Results The total mean scores of FSFI and the subscales of sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, and satisfaction were significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group after the intervention. In addition, postintervention pain mean scores in the intervention group were significantly lower than in the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion The results of the present study indicate that psychoeducational cognitive- behavioral counseling is effective in improving female sexual function. It is recommended to compare the effects of psychoeducational cognitive-behavioral counseling on sexual dysfunctions of couples and with a larger sample size in future research.

Construct and criterion validity of the postmenopause sexuality questionnaire - PMSQ / Validação de construto e critério do questionario para avaliação da sexualidade feminina após a menopausa - QSFM

Abstract Objective To assess the construct and criterion validity of the Postmenopause Sexuality Questionnaire (PMSQ). Methods The present methodological questionnaire validation study included postmenopausal women. The construct validity was tested by factor analysis and the criterion validity was performed using the correlation between the PMSQ and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The ROC curve was used to verify sensitivity, specificity and to determine the cutoff point of the PMSQ. Results A total of 181 women with amean age of 56.4 ± 5.7 years old were evaluated. The exploratory factor analysis showed that the PMSQ presented Kaiser test = 0.88 and χ2 = 3293.7 (p < 0.001), commonalities ≥ 0.5, and extraction of 9 factors with eigenvalue ≥ 1; explaining 66.3% of the total variance. The PMSQ presented factor loadings between 0.4 and 0.8. A strong correlation between the 2 questionnaires (r = 0.79; p = 0.000) was shown. The cutoff point of the PMSQ was ≤ 55.5, assuming 87.9% sensitivity and 78.9% specificity (p < 0.001). Conclusion Since the PMSQ showed a strong correlation with the FSFI questionnaire, it presented good psychometric properties to assess the sexuality in postmenopausal women. Based on these results, the PMSQ could be widely tested as a specific instrument to examine the sexual function in postmenopausal women. Future studies, designed to examine the PMSQ instrument in different populations, are needed.

Resumo Objetivos Validar o construto e o critério do Questionário para Avaliação da Sexualidade Feminina após a Menopausa (QSFM). Métodos Estudo metodológico de validação de questionário incluiu mulheres na pósmenopausa. A validade de construto foi testada pormeio da análise fatorial e a validade de critério foi realizada por meio da correlação entre o QSFM e o Índice de Função Sexual Feminina (FSFI). A Curva ROC foi utilizada para verificar sensibilidade, especificidade e determinar o ponto de corte do QSFM. Resultados Foram avaliadas 181 mulheres, com idade média de 56,4 ± 5,7 anos. A análise fatorial exploratória mostrou que o QSFM apresentou teste de Kaiser = 0,88 e χ2 = 3293,7 (p < 0,001), comunalidades ≥ 0,5 com extração de nove fatores com autovalor ≥ 1; explicando 66,3% da variância total. O QSFM apresentou cargas fatoriais entre 0,4 e 0,8. Uma forte correlação entre os dois questionários (r = 0,79; p = 0,000) foi demonstrada. O ponto de corte do QSFM foi ≤ 55,5, assumindo sensibilidade de 87,9% e especificidade de 78,9% (p < 0,001). Conclusão Como o QSFM demonstrou uma forte concordância com o questionário FSFI, ele apresentou boas propriedades psicométricas para avaliar a sexualidade em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Com base nesses resultados, o QSFM pode ser amplamente utilizado como um instrumento específico para examinar a função sexual em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Estudos futuros são necessários para examinar o instrumento QSFM em diferentes populações.

Evaluation of the occurrence of sexual dysfunction and general quality of life in female patients with psoriasis

Abstract: Background: Psoriasis has a significant impact on quality of life (QoL). Sexual life can also be affected, with sexual dysfunction being reported by 25-70% of patients. Objectives: To determine the occurrence of sexual dysfunction and evaluate QoL in women with psoriasis. Methods: This case-control study included women aged 18-69 years. The validated Brazilian Portuguese versions of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) were administered to all participants to assess sexual function and QoL, respectively. Patients with psoriasis underwent clinical evaluation for the presence of comorbidities, especially psoriatic arthritis and other rheumatic manifestations. Location of lesions and the extent of skin involvement were also assessed. Results: The sample consisted of 150 women, 75 with diagnosis of psoriasis and 75 healthy controls. Prevalence of sexual dysfunction was high in women with psoriasis (58.6% of the sample). Prevalence was statistically higher in women with psoriasis than in controls (P = 0.014). The SF-36 domain scores were also lower in women with psoriasis, with role limitations due to physical health, limitations due to emotional problems, and mental health being the most affected domains. Study limitations: Sample size was calculated to evaluate the association between the occurrence of sexual dysfunction and psoriasis, but it did not include the determination of the possible causes of this dysfunction. Conclusions: QoL and sexual function were altered in women with psoriasis and should be taken into consideration when assessing disease severity.

Personality traits of postmenopausal women with sexual dysfunction / Características de personalidade de mulheres na pós-menopausa com disfunção sexual

Abstract Objective The aim of the present study is to identify the association between personality traits of postmenopausal women and the occurrence of sexual dysfunction. Methods A total of 43 postmenopausal women were evaluated according to their self-perception of the quality of their sexual life. They answered the following questionnaires: Sociodemographic Profile Questionnaire, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Factorial Personality Inventory (FPI-II). Results Women with poorer sexual self-perception showed low affective need (p< 0.01) and low need for organization (p< 0.01). Based on the need for control and opposition, there was no difference between the groups. Groups separated by the scores obtained on the FSFI showed no significant differences. Conclusion Postmenopausal women with lower schooling and personality characteristics that demonstrate low affective and organizational needs are more likely to present sexual dysfunction.

Resumo Objetivo O objetivo do presente estudo foi identificar a associação entre características de personalidade de mulheres na pós-menopausa e ocorrência de disfunção sexual. Método No total, 43 mulheres na pós-menopausa foram avaliadas de acordo com suas percepções da qualidade de suas vidas sexuais. Elas responderam aos seguintes questionários: Perfil Sociodemográfico, Índice de Função Sexual Feminino (FSFI, na sigla em inglês), Inventário de Depressão Beck (BDI, na sigla em inglês) e Inventário Fatorial de Personalidade (IFP-II). Resultados Mulheres com pior percepção sexual demonstraram baixa necessidade afetiva (p< 0,01) e baixa necessidade de organização (p< 0,01). Com base na necessidade de controle e oposição, não houve diferença entre os grupos. Os grupos de mulheres separadas pelo FSFI não demonstraram diferenças significativas. Conclusão Mulheres na pós-menopausa com menor escolaridade e características de personalidade que demonstre baixa necessidade afetiva e de organização possuem maior chance de apresentar disfunção sexual.

Sexual function of undergraduate women: a comparative study between Brazil and Italy / La función sexual de universitarias: estudio comparativo entre Brasil e Italia / Função sexual de universitárias: estudo comparativo entre Brasil e Itália

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate the sexual function of Italian and Brazilian nursing students using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), to estimate the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions and related factors. Method: this is a cross-sectional study involving 84 Brazilian and 128 Italian undergraduate. For the evaluation of sexual function, the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire was used. Results: Italian women presented significantly higher sexual dysfunction index (n=78/60.9%) than the Brazilian women (n=32/38.1%) (p=0.00). Only the "desire" and "excitation" domains showed no difference between groups. Younger, single and without a steady relationship women had a higher rate of sexual dysfunction (p<0.05). Conclusion: the high rate of sexual dysfunction in a young public suggests the need for more research to increase knowledge about the influence of psychosocial and related factors on female sexual function, directing care towards the promotion of sexual and reproductive health.

RESUMEN Objetivo: evaluar la función sexual de académicas italianas y brasileñas de enfermería utilizando el Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), estimar el predominio de las disfunciones sexuales y los factores relacionados. Método: estudio transversal, de lo cual participaron 212 universitarias, siendo 84 brasileñas y 128 italianas. Para evaluar la función sexual, se utilizó el cuestionario Female Sexual Function Index(FSFI). Resultados: Las italianas presentaron índice de disfunción sexual significativamente superior (n=78/60,9%) en comparación con el de las brasileñas (n=32/38,1%) (p=0,00). Sólo los dominios "deseo" y "excitación" no presentaron diferencia entre los grupos. Las mujeres más jóvenes, solteras y sin relación estable presentaron un índice de disfunción sexual más alto (p<0,05). Conclusión: el elevado índice de disfunción sexual en un público tan joven sugiere la necesidad de realizar más investigaciones que incrementen el conocimiento sobre la influencia de los factores psicosociales y relacionales en la función sexual femenina, dirigiendo el cuidado para la promoción de la salud sexual y reproductiva.

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar a função sexual de acadêmicas de enfermagem italianas e brasileiras utilizando o Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), estimar a prevalência das disfunções sexuais e os fatores relacionados. Método: estudo transversal, o qual participaram 212 universitárias, sendo 84 brasileiras e 128 italianas. Para a avaliação da função sexual, empregou-se o questionário Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). Resultados: As italianas apresentaram índice de disfunção sexual significativamente superior (n=78/60,9%) do que as brasileiras (n=32/38,1%) (p=0,00). Apenas os domínios "desejo" e "excitação" não apresentaram diferença entre os grupos. As mulheres mais jovens, solteiras e sem relacionamento estável apresentaram índice de disfunção sexual maior (p<0,05). Conclusão: o elevado índice de disfunção sexual em um público tão jovem sugere a necessidade da realização de mais investigações que incrementem o conhecimento sobre a influência dos fatores psicossociais e relacionais na função sexual feminina, direcionando o cuidado para a promoção da saúde sexual e reprodutiva.

A fisioterapia pélvica melhora a dor genitopélvica/desordens da penetração? / Does the pelvic physical therapy improves genitopelvic pain/penetration disorder?

Muitas vezes, as Disfunções Sexuais Femininas (DSF) são subdiagnosticadas, têm causas multifatoriais e não recebem devida atenção para o tratamento. Estas disfunções podem se manifestar em qualquer idade, sobretudo em mulheres adultas e idosas, e de diferentes formas. Para ajudar essa mulher na resolução do seu problema, o ideal é que profissionais especializados em saúde sexual a aborde, cada um em sua área de atuação. Além de apoio médico e psicológico, a fisioterapia tem papel fundamental na reabilitação sexual da dor genitopélvica/desordens da penetração (vulvodínea, vestibulodínea, dispareunia e vaginismo). O fisioterapeuta utiliza recursos como terapia manual, cinesioterapia, eletroestimulação, biofeedback, eletromiografia, cones vaginais e dilatadores na conduta terapêutica para essas disfunções. A literatura ainda apresenta-se restrita neste tema, mas é possível afirmar que a fisioterapia pélvica, se bem conduzida, é resolutiva, proporcionando satisfação e melhora da qualidade de vida da mulher.(AU)

Often, Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) is underdiagnosed, have multifactorial causes and do not receive adequate attention for treatment. These dysfunctions may appear at any age, especially in adult and elderly women, and in different ways. To help this woman in the resolution of her problem, the ideal is that professionals specialized in sexual health address her, each one in its area of operation. In addition to medical and psychological support, physiotherapy plays a key role in sexual rehabilitation genito-p-elvic pain/penetration disorders (vulvodynea, vestibulodynea, dyspareunia and vaginismus). The physical therapist works with manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, electrical stimulation, biofeedback, electromyography, vaginal cones and dilators in the therapeutic approach. The literature also presents restricted in this area, but we can say that the pelvic physical therapy, if well conducted, is resolute, providing satisfaction and improving quality of life of women.(AU)

Analysis of sexual function of patients with dermatomyositis and polymyositis through self-administered questionnaires: a cross-sectional study / Análise da função sexual de pacientes com dermatomiosite e polimiosite através de questionários autoaplicados: um estudo transversal

Abstract Introduction: To date, there are no descriptions in the literature on gynecologic and sexual function evaluation in female patients with dermatomyositis (DM) and polymyositis (PM). Objective: To assess sexual function in female patients with DM/PM. Patients and methods: This is a monocentric, cross-sectional study in which 23 patients (16 DM and 7 PM), with ages between 18 and 40 years, were compared to 23 healthy women of the same age group. Characteristics on sexual function were obtained by applying the questionnaires Female Sexual Quotient (FSQ) and Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) validated for the Brazilian Portuguese language. Results: The mean age of patients was comparable to controls (32.7 ± 5.3 vs. 31.7 ± 6.7 years), as well as the distribution of ethnicity and socioeconomic class. As for gynecological characteristics, patients and healthy controls did not differ with respect to age at menarche and percentages of dysmenorrhea, menorrhagia, premenstrual syndrome, pain at mid-cycle, mucocervical secretion, and vaginal discharge. The FSQ score, as well as all domains of the FSFI questionnaire (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm and satisfaction), were significantly decreased in patients vs. controls, with 60.9% of patients showing some degree of sexual dysfunction. Conclusions: This was the first study to identify sexual dysfunction in patients with DM/PM. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach is essential for patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies, in order to provide prevention and care for their sexual life, providing a better quality of life, both for patients and their partners.

Resumo Introdução: Até o presente momento, não há descrições na literatura da avaliação ginecológica e da função sexual em pacientes do sexo feminino com dermatomiosite (DM) e polimiosite (PM). Objetivos: Avaliar a função sexual em pacientes do sexo feminino com DM/PM. Casuística e métodos: Estudo transversal unicêntrico em que 23 pacientes (16 DM e sete PM), entre 18 e 40 anos, foram comparadas com 23 mulheres saudáveis, com a mesma faixa etária. As características sobre a função sexual foram obtidas por meio da aplicação dos questionários Female Sexual Quotient (FSQ) e Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) validados para a língua portuguesa do Brasil. Resultados: A média de idade das pacientes foi comparável à dos controles (32,7 ± 5,3 vs. 31,7 ± 6,7 anos), assim como a distribuição de etnia e da classe socioeconômica. Quanto às características ginecológicas, pacientes e controles saudáveis não apresentaram diferenças em relação à idade na menarca e às porcentagens de dismenorreia, menorragia, síndrome pré-menstrual, dor no meio do ciclo, secreção mucocervical e corrimento vaginal. O escore de pontuação do FSQ, assim como todos os domínios do questionário do FSFI (desejo, excitação, lubrificação, orgasmo e satisfação), estavam significantemente diminuídos nas pacientes comparativamente com os controles, 60,9% das pacientes apresentavam algum grau de disfunção sexual. Conclusões: Este foi o primeiro estudo que identificou disfunção sexual nas pacientes com DM/PM. Assim, uma abordagem multidisciplinar é essencial para pacientes com miopatias inflamatórias idiopáticas para fornecer medidas de prevenção e cuidados para sua vida sexual e propiciar uma melhor qualidade de vida das pacientes e de seus parceiros.

Distribution pattern of psoriasis, anxiety and depression as possible causes of sexual dysfunction in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis

Abstract BACKGROUND: Psoriasis may significantly impair sexual function. Depression and organic factors appear to play a key role in this relation. However, beyond genital psoriasis, the importance of the disease's distribution patterns has not been considered. OBJECTIVES: To research sexual function in psoriasis patients and investigate the roles of anxiety, depression and psoriasis' distribution patterns in sexual dysfunction. METHODS: A comparative study matched for sex and age was performed. Eighty patients with moderate to severe psoriasis and 80 healthy controls were included. The participants completed the Massachusetts General Hospital-Sexual Functioning Questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Self-Administered Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. RESULTS: Psoriasis was associated with sexual dysfunction, odds ratio=5.5 (CI 95% 2.6-11.3; p<0.001). Certain distribution patterns of psoriasis, involving specific body regions, were associated with an increase in sexual dysfunction in the group presenting the disease, odds ratio 7.9 (CI 95% 2.3-33.4; p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified anxiety and depression, and the involvement of these specific areas, as possible independent risk factors for sexual dysfunction in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. CONCLUSION: This study identifies body areas potentially related to sexual dysfunction, independently of anxiety and depression, in psoriasis patients. The results suggest that the assessment of sexual dysfunction and the involvement of these body areas should be considered as disease severity criteria when choosing the treatment for psoriasis patients. .

Factores biopsicosociales asociados a la disfunción sexual femenina en una población mexicana / Biopsychosocial factors associated with female sexual dysfunction in a mexican population

Objetivo: Determinar los factores biopsicosociales asociados a la disfunción sexual femenina en una población mexicana. Métodos: Estudio comparativo en mujeres que acudieron como acompañantes a una Unidad de Medicina Familiar de Querétaro, México. Se aplicaron las encuestas de Laumman, Chávez y Velazco, Faces III, y Grajales para valorar sexualidad, funcionalidad conyugal, funcionalidad familiar y estado de la autoestima. Los resultados fueron analizados con Odds Ratios, Chi cuadrado y t de Student. Resultados: De 110 mujeres entrevistadas, 65 (59 por ciento) refirieron alguna disfunción sexual y 45 (41 por ciento) lo negaron. Se formaron aleatoriamente dos grupos de 44 mujeres: con y sin disfunción sexual. Los factores que se asociaron significativamente a las alteraciones sexuales fueron: edad mayor a 40 años, laborar fuera del hogar, presencia de obesidad y/o sobrepeso, hipertensión arterial, diabetes mellitus, histerectomía previa, maternidad, disfuncionalidad conyugal, autoestima alta, depresión leve a severa, familia disfuncional, estrato socioeconómico bajo. Las alteraciones sexuales más frecuentes fueron: disminución en el deseo sexual (34,1 por ciento), disfunción eréctil de la pareja (22,7 por ciento), dispareunia y falta de excitación (20,5 por ciento), sexo referido como desagradable e incapacidad para llegar al orgasmo (13,6 por ciento), ansiedad por el desempeño sexual (6,8 por ciento) y eyaculación precoz (4,5 por ciento). Conclusiones: Es importante identificar los factores que afectan la sexualidad femenina para ofrecer un manejo multidisciplinario y prevenir implicaciones a nivel del entorno familiar y conyugal.

Objective: To determine the biopsychosocial factors associated with female sexual dysfunction in a Mexican population. Methods: A comparative study in women who were attended at a Family Medicine Unit of Queretaro, Mexico. Surveys of Laumman, Chavez and Velazco, Faces III, and Grajales, were applied to assess sexuality, marital functionality, familiar functionality and state self-esteem. The results were analyzed with Odds Ratios, chi-square and Student t test. Results: Of 110 women interviewed, 65 (59 percent) reported sexual dysfunction and 45 (41 percent) denied. They formed two groups randomly from 44 women with and without sexual dysfunction. Factors that were significantly associated with sexual disorders were: age greater than 40 years, labor outside the home, presence of obesity and/or overweight, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, prior hysterectomy, maternity, marital dysfunction, high self-esteem, mild to severe depression, dysfunctional family, low socioeconomic status. The most common sexual dysfunction were: decrease in sexual desire (34.1 percent), erectile dysfunction couples (22.7 percent), dyspareunia and lack of arousal (20.5 percent), referred to as unpleasant sex and inability to reach orgasm 13.6 percent) sexual performance anxiety (6.8 percent) and premature ejaculation (4.5 percent). Conclusions: It is important to identify the factors affecting female sexuality to offer multidisciplinary management and prevention implications at the level of family and marital environment.

Correlates of psychosexual issues in the Jamaican population / Correlatos de problemas psicosexuales en la población Jamaicana

OBJECTIVE: To examine the relationship between the psychopathological correlates of psychosexual phenomena in post-colonial Jamaica. METHODS: A total of 1506 adult individuals were sampled from 2150 households using a stratified sampling method and assessed with the Jamaica Personality Disorder Inventory (JPDI). Responses to the seven questions on the psychological features of homosexual practices, sexual practices and dysfunction were tabulated and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 17. RESULTS: Of the sample, 79.38% denied having phenomenological symptoms of psychosexual phenomena while 20.33% of the population admitted to having some degree of heterosexual and homosexual phenomena, ranging from mild (5.13%), to moderate (11.40), or severe (3.80%). Sixteen (1.06%) responders described homosexual practices in their lives, and 53 (3.52%) described thinking frequently about homosexual experiences in their subjective psychic lives. Significantly more (p > 0.001) male responders (348, 23.11%) had difficulty being sexually faithful to one person at a time than females (122, 8.10%). The lower class cohort members (348, 23.11%) were more likely to have had multiple sexual relationships over the previous 12 months than socio-economic class (SEC) 1-3 responders (54, 3.58%) and were more likely (681, 45.21%) to fantasize about sexual relationships with persons other than their partners (p < 0.001) than SEC 1-3 responders (94, 6.24%). CONCLUSION: Significant levels of multiple sexual partnerships and feelings of infidelity in a swathe of Jamaican people reveal underlying psychosexual anxiety and guilt, poor impulse control and difficulties with partner intimacy. This psychopathology is correlated to concomitant high-risk public health sexual behaviour such as teenage pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and HIV/AIDS existing in the Jamaican society.

OBJETIVO: Examinar la relación entre los correlatos psicopatológicos de los fenómenos psicosexuales en la Jamaica postcolonial. MÉTODOS: Un total de 1506 individuos adultos fueron tomados como muestras a partir de 2150 hogares, usando un método de muestreo estratificado, y evaluados mediante el Inventario de Trastornos de la Personalidad de Jamaica (JPDI). Las respuestas a las siete preguntas sobre las características psicológicas de las prácticas homosexuales, las prácticas sexuales, y la disfunción, fueron tabuladas y analizadas mediante el Paquete Estadístico para las Ciencias Sociales (SPSS) versión 17. RESULTADOS: De la muestra, 79.38% negó tener síntomas fenomenológicos de fenómenos psicosexuales, mientras que el 20.33% de la población admitió haber tenido algún grado de fenómenos heterosexuales y homosexuales, desde leves (5.13%) a moderados (11.40) o severos (3.80%). Once encuestados (0.73%) reportaron prácticas homosexuales en sus vidas, y 53 (3.52%) reportaron pensar con frecuencia acerca de experiencias homosexuales en su vida psíquica subjetiva. Significativamente más encuestados varones (p > 0.001) (348, 23.11%) tuvieron dificultades para ser fieles sexualmente a una persona alguna vez, en comparación con las hembras (122, 8.10%). Los miembros de la cohorte de clase baja (348, 23.11%) eran más propensos a tener múltiples relaciones sexuales en los 12 meses anteriores (3.58%), y tuvieron una mayor probabilidad (681, 45.21%) de tener fantasías acerca de relaciones sexuales con personas que no eran sus parejas (p < 0.001) en comparación con los encuestados de SEC 1-3 (94, 6.24%). CONCLUSIÓN: Los niveles significativos de las relaciones sexuales múltiples y los sentimientos de la infidelidad en un sector del pueblo jamaicano, revelan ansiedad psicosexual subyacente y sentimientos de culpa, control de impulsos pobre, y dificultades con la intimidad de la pareja. Esta psicopatología está correlacionada con comportamientos sexuales concomitantes de alto riesgo en la salud pública, tales como el embarazo adolescente, las enfermedades de transmisión sexual (ETS), y el VIH/SIDA, existentes en la sociedad jamaicana.

Factores de vulnerabilidad y de protección del impacto emocional en mujeres adultas víctimas de agresiones sexuales / Risk and protective factors in the emotional impact of adult female victims of sexual aggression

El objetivo de este estudio fue describir las reacciones psicopatológicas de las víctimas según las circunstancias de la agresión sexual, la historia previa y el apoyo familiar/social. La muestra constó de 269 mujeres adultas víctimas de una agresión sexual en la infancia o en la vida adulta. Se evaluaron las reacciones postraumáticas, la sintomatología ansioso-depresiva, la autoestima, las conductas sexuales y el funcionamiento cotidiano. Los resultados mostraron una alta prevalencia de malestar emocional (63,6%), de baja autoestima (59,7%), de TEPT (44,5%), de sentimientos de culpa (48,3%) y de evitación sexual (38,9%), así como problemas de adaptación. La gravedad de la sintomatología estaba relacionada con las circunstancias de la agresión sexual, tales como la penetración vaginal/anal o las heridas provocadas, la historia de victimización, los sucesos estresantes recientes y la falta de apoyo socio-familiar. Sin embargo, las conductas de evitación sexual no estaban relacionadas con circunstancias específicas de la agresión sexual.

The aim of this paper was to describe the psychopathological reactions of the victims according to the circumstances surrounding sexual aggression, the previous clinical record, and the role of family/social support. The sample consisted of269 adult female victims who suffered any kind of sexual aggression either in childhood or in adult life. Participants were assessed with the PTSD Severity Scale, the STAI, the BDI, the Self-Esteem Scale and the Misadjustment Scale. The results showed a high prevalence of emotional trouble (63.6%), low self-esteem (59.7%), PTSD (44.5), guilt feelings (48.3%), sexual avoidance (38.9%), as well as a poor adaptation to daily life activities. The severity of emotional problems was related to the circumstances of sexual aggression, such as vaginal/anal penetration or physical injuries, the history of victimization, the recent stressful life events and the lack of family/social support. However sexual avoidance behaviors were not associated with circumstances of sexual aggression.

Tratamento psicoterápico para disfunção sexual feminina / Psychotherapeutic treatment for female sexual dysfunction

Disfunção sexual feminina refere-se à alteração do interesse pela atividade sexual, à dificuldade com a excitação subjetiva e/ou genital e em desencadear o desejo durante o envolvimento sexual, à disfunção do orgasmo e da dor à relação sexual, bem como à impossibilidade de relaxamento vaginal (para permitir a penetração). O conceito atual de função sexual valoriza o aspecto responsivo do desejo feminino, desencadeado por estímulo e contexto sexual adequados. O diagnóstico deve considerar história médica, psicossocial e sexual, contexto atual, passado e do início da dificuldade, resposta sexual atual e participação do parceiro. Medo de perder o controle, de resultados negativos,dificuldade em permanecer atenta ao momento presente e falta ou informação insuficiente sobre a resposta sexual feminina são frequentes. Para tratar as disfunções sexuais femininas, recomenda-se abordagem multidisciplinar, visto que apenas o tratamento medicamentoso é insuficiente. Inicia-se pela melhora do bem-estar emocional e físico. Segue-se a abordagem da resposta sexual, anatomia e fisiologia genital básicas, orientação sobre atividades e estimulação sexual diferentes do coito e técnicas que facilitem a excitação. Idade e expectativas realistas devem ser abordadas. Algumas intervenções aumentam a conscientização das sensações prazerosas e dos sinais sexuais emitidos pelo corpo,promovem a exploração do corpo e da genitália. Exercícios de autoconsciência têm apresentado bons resultados, assim como modalidades tradicionais de terapia sexual. Terapias de tempo limitado têm mostrado eficiência a custo menor do que processos terapêuticos prolongados. Muitas mulheres podem melhorar a atividade sexual apenas com a criação de um contexto apropriado para a aquisição de informações básicas sobre o funcionamento e a resposta sexual, enquanto outras precisam de intervenções psicoterapêuticas mais complexas.

Prevalence and related factors for anorgasmia among reproductive aged women in Hesarak, Iran

INTRODUCTION: Orgasmic dysfunction in women is characterized by persistent or recurrent delay in or absence of orgasm following a normal sexual excitement phase. Research has shown that almost two thirds of women have concerns about their sexual relationship. Sexual dysfunction has many problems for couples; some researchers found that up to 67 percent of divorces related to sexual disorders. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess the prevalence and related factors of anorgasmia among reproductive age Iranian women. METHODS: This study was conducted in 2006-7 in Hesarak, Karaj, Iran. A total of 1200 women were randomly recruited to the study. Sexual satisfaction questions were prepared according to the Enrich Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire. Orgasms were assessed according to the relevant questions in the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 11; Chi-square, Mann-Whitney and independent t-test were used for statistical purposes. RESULTS: This study showed that the prevalence of anorgasmia among Iranian women in Hesarak, Karaj, was 26.3 percent. There was a significant difference between the anorgasmic and normal orgasm groups regarding the women's age, age at marriage, duration of marriage and education during puberty (p<0.05). Some psychological factors, e.g. anxiety, fatigue, pain, feeling of guilt, anti-masculine feelings and embarrassment in sexual relationships were higher in the anorgasmic group (p<0.001). DISCUSSION: The results of this study showed that the prevalence of anorgasmia in Hesarak is high and most of the anorgasmic women were highly unsatisfied with their sexual relationship compared to the normal orgasm group. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of anorgasmia among Iranian women in Hesarak, Karaj, is high and some socio-demographic and psychological factors have a strong relationship with anorgasmia.

Cenários masculinos vulneráveis / Vulnerable masculine scenarios / Escenarios masculinos vulnerables

Este trabalho enfatiza os cenários vulneráveis na vida dos homens. Explora as desvantagens de gênero, a dependência, a submissão masculina e a dor de ser homem. Considera o pré-édipo nos homens e a inveja primária ao ventre gestante, o desejo de ser mulher e o temor à mulher. Ao examinar a inveja do pênis nos homens, o trabalho pormenoriza a complexidade da masculinidade. Descreve o espaço psíquico entre-homens e as defesas dos homens em suas relações amorosas, tais como a hipermasculinidade, o amor superficial (amores fóbicos e histéricos) e o papel que desempenha a aquisição e o cultivo de emblemas de poder.

This paper points out some vulnerable scenarios in men’s life. It explores gender disadvantages, dependence, masculine submission and painful aspects of manhood. The paper considers the pre-oedipus and the primal womb envy in men. It also describes their wish of being a woman and their fear of women. When examining penis’ envy in men, the paper goes deep into the complexities of masculinity. It describes the psychic space between men and men’s defense mechanisms in theIr erotic relationships, such as hipermasculinity, superficial love (phobic and hysterical love) and the roles played by the acquisition and cultivation of power emblems.

Este trabajo destaca escenarios vulnerables en la vida de los hombres. Explora las desventajas de género, la dependencia, la sumisión masculina y el dolor de ser hombre. Considera el preedipo en los hombres y la envidia primaria al vientre gestante, el deseo de ser mujer y el temor a la mujer. Al examinar la envidia al pene en los hombres, el trabajo se adentra en la complejidad de la masculinidad. Describe el espacio psíquico entre-hombres y las defensas de los hombres en sus relaciones amorosas, tales como la hipermasculinidad, el amor superficial (amores fóbicos e histéricos) y el rol que juega la adquisición y el cultivo de emblemas de poder.

As disfunções sexuais femininas no periódico Archives of Sexual Behavior / The female sexual dysfunctions in the Archives of Sexual Behavoir

Após o sucesso de vendas do Viagra, medicamento indicado para o tratamento da disfunção erétil, lançado em 1998, houve uma rápida proliferação de artigos, livros e encontros sobre as disfunções sexuais femininas. Desde 2000, um intenso debate sobre o envolvimento da indústria farmacêutica na produção biomédica sobre as disfunções sexuais femininas e a concomitante busca por um medicamento similar ao Viagra destinado às mulheres tem envolvido profissionais de diferentes disciplinas. Esta dissertação teve como objetivo investigar os discursos científicos sobre as disfunções sexuais femininas, através do exame dos artigos publicados no periódico Archives of Sexual Behavior, desde sua fundação, em 1971, até 2007. O periódico foi escolhido por sua legitimidade neste campo de saberes, por abranger um amplo período (36 anos) e seu caráter multidisciplinar. Pretendeu-se investigar quando, como e por quais grupos profissionais as disfunções sexuais femininas foram descritas e abordadas no periódico. No caso das chamadas disfunções sexuais, as descrições científicas, que vêm aumentando significativamente nos últimos anos, dão origem a prescrições de terapias, medicamentos, intervenções cirúrgicas, programas de educação sexual e políticas públicas. Ou seja, subjacente a esse discurso, que afirma ser empírico e imparcial, estão processos que se encontram muito além dos limites de um laboratório ou das atividades de um pesquisador. Buscou-se, assim, pensar a produção científica como produto de articulações e negociações que se desenrolam em esferas diversas, envolvendo processos culturais, sociais, econômicos e também cognitivos ou científicos, em contraposição às concepções que caracterizam a ciência como um projeto que apenas revela verdades...

After the sale success of Viagra, a medicament indicated for the treatment of erectile dysfunction, which was launched in 1998, there was a fast proliferation of articles, books and meetings on female sexual dysfunctions. Since 2000, an intense debate about the involvement of the pharmaceutical industry in the biomedical production related to female sexual dysfunctions and the simultaneous search for a medicament similar to Viagra aimed to women has been involving professional from different areas. The goal of this dissertation was to investigate scientificdiscourses on female sexual dysfunctions through the analysis of articles published in the periodical Archives of Sexual Behavior, since its foundation in 1971 until 2007. The periodical was chosen due to its legitimacy in this field of knowledge, for covering a vast period (36 years)and for its multidisciplinary nature. The intention was to locate when, how and by which professional groups female sexual dysfunctions were described and dealt with in the periodical. In the case of the so-called sexual dysfunctions, scientific descriptions, which have beensignificantly increasing in recent years, originate therapeutic prescriptions, medicaments, chirurgical interventions, sexual education programs and public policies. That is, subjacent to thisdiscourse, which poses as empirical and impartial processes were found that reach quite beyond the limits of a lab or the activities of a researcher. Therefore, the aim was to think of the scientificproduction as a product of articulations and negotiations unfolded in diversified domains and involving cultural, social and economical processes, as well as cognitive and scientific ones, in contrast to the conceptions that characterize science as a project that only brings about the truth. For this, the context in which a science of sexuality emerged throughout the 19th Century waspresented, followed by the context in...

Reflexões sobre o significado e a importância das queixas sexuais / Reflexions on meaning and importance of the sexual complains

Para a OMS, a saúde sexual significa a integração de aspectos somáticos, afetivos, intelectuais e sociais. Objetivamos trazer à tona uma problemática de relevante importância, tendo em vista que as queixas sexuais são muito freqüentes na população em geral e talvez ainda subestimadas. É necessária a procura de soluções aplicáveis, principalmente no que diz respeito à preparação do médico, para a adequada abordagem das mesmas. Estudos demonstram que a disfunção sexual é um problema de saúde pública, e que lamentavelmente, a queixa sexual apesar de bastante freqüente, não constuma ser pesquisada nem detalhada pelos profissionais da saúde. Inicialmente, a queixa de disfunção sexual é feita ao clínico geral ou ao ginecologista. Os pacientes esperam que os médicos tenham o treinamento necessário para prover informações e resoluções para suas queixas sexuais. É provável que o profissional da saúde não esteja adequadamente preparado na abordagem destas queixas, motivo pelo qual há uma preocupação com o ensino efetivo do tema durante o curso de graduação. Apesar de existente, ainda é deficiente o ensino do manejo das disfunções sexuais, para que o profissional sinta-se preparado e à vontade para ouvir e, se possível oferecer a ajuda necessária às queixas de seus pacientes