Changes in Intimacy and Sexuality During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Analysis of Data from a Survey on Partnered Individuals in Eight European Countries.

This qualitative study explores experiences of intimacy and sexuality during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic of 3357 participants from Croatia, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Portugal, Sweden, and Turkey. Data were collected through open-ended questions within a survey on sexuality during the pandemic. Based on a reflexive thematic analysis three themes occurred. The first theme No change was described by 41% when summarizing their sex life during the pandemic. The second theme Positive change was experienced by 25%, and the third theme Negative change by 21%. An overarching theme then emerged as: "Still the same trajectories, but the pandemic could be a catalyst for improved or worsened sex- life." For those intimate partnered individuals who already had problems with intimacy and sexuality before the COVID-19 pandemic it seemed to remain the same or deteriorated throughout the pandemic. For those with positive experiences of intimacy and sexuality before the COVID-19 pandemic it remained the same or improved throughout the pandemic. These findings are relevant for researchers and clinicians in developing preventive and supportive interventions in the context of crisis and social isolation.

Changes in Intimacy and Sexuality During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Analysis of Data from a Survey on Partnered Individuals in Eight European Countries

This qualitative study explores experiences of intimacy and sexuality during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic of 3357 participants from Croatia, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Portugal, Sweden, and Turkey. Data were collected through open-ended questions within a survey on sexuality during the pandemic. Based on a reflexive thematic analysis three themes occurred. The first theme No change was described by 41% when summarizing their sex life during the pandemic. The second theme Positive change was experienced by 25%, and the third theme Negative change by 21%. An overarching theme then emerged as: “Still the same trajectories, but the pandemic could be a catalyst for improved or worsened sex- life.” For those intimate partnered individuals who already had problems with intimacy and sexuality before the COVID-19 pandemic it seemed to remain the same or deteriorated throughout the pandemic. For those with positive experiences of intimacy and sexuality before the COVID-19 pandemic it remained the same or improved throughout the pandemic. These findings are relevant for researchers and clinicians in developing preventive and supportive interventions in the context of crisis and social isolation.

Perceived Changes in Sexual Interest and Distress About Discrepant Sexual Interest During the First Phase of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multi-Country Assessment in Cohabiting Partnered Individuals.

Due to COVID-19 pandemic, different restrictive measures in terms of physical distancing and lockdowns have been introduced in most European countries, affecting all facets of social life. Currently, little is known about how partnered individuals perceive changes in their sexual life during this complex emergency. This study explored retrospectively assessed changes in sexual interest for one's partner and levels of distress related to perceived sexual interest discrepancy during the first phase of the pandemic in a large-scale online sample of partnered individuals (n = 4813; Mage = 38.5 years, SD = 10.74) recruited between May and July 2020 in seven European Union countries and Turkey. We also examined the possible role of approach/avoidance motives for sex in reported changes in sexual interest and associated distress. Most participants (53%) reported no change in their sexual interest during the pandemic, followed by those who reported an increase (28.5%). The pattern was similar across the eight countries. Distress about discrepant sexual interest, which was only weakly related to changes in sexual interest, was significantly associated with relationship quality and emotional closeness with a partner, coping with and worrying about the pandemic, and specific motivation for sex. In contrast to avoidant and relationship-focused approach motivation, ego-focused approach motivation was related to stable sexual interest during the pandemic. The current study contributes to the understanding of the link between sexual interest and complex emergencies. Considering that the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the reported experiences and perceptions are prone to change.

Modifications des modes de vie et impact psychosocial du confinement lié à la COVID-19

Résumé La mesure sanitaire de confinement imposée par la pandémie à coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) a exposé la population générale française à une situation imprévue nécessitant des réaménagements sur un temps bref de ses modes de vie. Le confinement a constitué un danger pour certains segments de la population, notamment pour les personnes et familles déjà en situation de vulnérabilité et de précarité sociale et économique. Aux risques inhérents à l’état de confinement, s’ajoutent les conséquences psychologiques et les changements de mode de vie sur une période suffisamment longue pour ancrer certains comportements ou états. Les effets à long terme du confinement sont donc un double enjeu de santé globale, un enjeu à long terme dans la prévention et la prise en charge des conséquences sur l’état de santé des personnes, et un enjeu à moyen terme dans la préparation à la possibilité de nouvelle(s) période(s) de confinement. L’accompagnement psychosocial de la population devrait être pensé collectivement et singulièrement par, avec et pour la population, et engager les acteurs communautaires et sanitaires. La santé mentale doit faire partie intégrante de l’approche de santé globale et des stratégies de santé publique. Summary Unprecedented CoVid-19 pandemic led to unprecedented measures in France. The 8-week lockdown period led to both lifestyles changes and endangered some already socially and economically vulnerable individuals and families. To the direct risks related to lockdown situation, other deleterious consequences include psychological impact and potentially lasting health behaviour changes. Lockdown long-term effects are a twofold global health challenge. First with regards to the prevention and treatment of health consequences;second, in relation to the planning of support mechanisms should lockdown period be implemented again, locally or nationally. Both community and health sectors should work collaboratively to ensure psychosocial support as mental health is paramount in global health approach and public health strategies.