Gender-Related Differences in Associations Between Sexual Abuse and Hypersexuality

BackgroundIndividuals with histories of sexual abuse may be more likely to experience sexual-related problems including hypersexuality, but gender-related differences remain unclear.AimThis online study examined sexual abuse history and hypersexuality by gender among 16,823 Hungarian adults, adjusting for age, sexual orientation, relationship status, education, employment status, and residence.MethodsAn online questionnaire on one of the largest Hungarian news portals advertised this study examining sexual activities in January 2017. 3 categorizations of age-related sexual abuse were examined: child sexual abuse (CSA) occurring at age 13 and earlier (compared to no abuse), adolescent/adult sexual abuse (AASA; compared to no abuse), and CSA and AASA (CSA/AASA; compared to one age-related category of abuse or the other).OutcomesThe outcome variable, hypersexuality, was examined as a continuous variable due to the low prevalence of clinical hypersexuality in this sample. 3 multivariate linear regression analyses adjusting for covariates aimed to predict hypersexuality from each category of abuse, along with gender and its interaction with each category.ResultsIn all models, younger age, non-heterosexual sexual orientation, male gender, single relationship status, less than full-time work, and living in a capital city were associated with hypersexuality, and education was not a significant predictor. CSA, AASA, and CSA/AASA predicted hypersexuality in both men and women. There was a significant interaction between CSA/AASA and gender, such that the relationship between CSA/AASA and hypersexuality was stronger in men than in women.Clinical TranslationSexual abuse at each developmental time-point may influence hypersexuality among men and women, although the cumulative impact of CSA and AASA on hypersexuality may be particularly relevant among men.Strengths & LimitationsThis is one of the largest studies to examine gender-related differences in the relationship between sexual abuse and hypersexuality. Nevertheless, our study is cross-sectional, and longitudinal work is needed to determine how sexual abuse affects children, adolescents, and adults throughout their lives.ConclusionDevelopmental impacts of sexual abuse may be considered in a gender-informed fashion in order to develop and optimize effective prevention and treatment strategies for hypersexuality.Slavin MN, Blycker GR, Potenza MN, et al. Gender-Related Differences in Associations Between Sexual Abuse and Hypersexuality. J Sex Med 2020;17:2029–2038.     

Psychosexual Correlates of Unwanted Sexual Experiences in Women Consulting for Female Sexual Dysfunction According to Their Timing Across the Life Span

Background

Comparative data on the psychopathologic and sexual correlates of unwanted sexual experiences (USEs) occurring during childhood, adolescence, or adult life are lacking.

Medication Use and Sexual Function: A Population-Based Study in Middle Aged Women

IntroductionMedications used to treat chronic diseases have contributed to increasing longevity and improving quality of life. These medications are considered an indispensable resource in the management of most treatable diseases. However, they can affect sexual function through their effects on the central or the peripheral nervous system or due to hormonal effects.AimTo evaluate the association between the use of medication for chronic diseases and sexual dysfunction in Brazilian women 45–60 years of age.MethodsA secondary analysis of household survey data from a previous cross-sectional, population-based study conducted with a sample of 749 women of a population of 257,434 female urban residents in the age bracket of interest. Sexual function was evaluated using the Short Personal Experiences Questionnaire (SPEQ). Associations between the use of medication and sexual function were evaluated, as were correlations with other variables.Main Outcome MeasureWe found associations of the individual SPEQ domains with the use of some medications.ResultsMean age of participants was 52.5 ± 4.4 years. Mean age at menopause was 46.5 ± 5.8 years. The overall prevalence of medication use was 68.8%, with the drugs predominantly consisting of those used for cardiovascular diseases. In the Poisson regression analysis, sexual dysfunction, as based on the overall SPEQ score, was associated with sexual inactivity (prevalence ratio [PR] = 4.05; 95% CI 3.16–5.20; P < .001), a sedentary lifestyle (PR = 1.49; 95% CI 1.06–2.09; P = .021), and untreated anxiety (PR = 1.44; 95% CI 1.08–1.92; P = .014). Analysis of the individual SPEQ domains revealed that women who scored low in the desire domain were more likely to use antihypertensive agents (P = .019), whereas a lower score for the arousal domain was associated with the use of antidepressants, with treatment for osteoarticular diseases and with polypharmacy (P = .003). Women with lower scores in the satisfaction domain were more likely to use antidepressants, drugs for osteoarticular diseases, diabetes medication, and polypharmacy (P = .019). A lower score in the orgasm domain was associated with the use of antidepressants, the treatment of osteoarticular diseases, and diabetes (P < .001). Hormone therapy proved protective against loss of libido (P = .036).Clinical ImplicationsSome medications can interfere with sexual function negatively and, clinicians have to be aware of it to choose the treatment with fewer collateral effects.Strength & LimitationsThe strength of our study is the large, population-based sample of middle-aged women evaluated for sexual dysfunction with the SPEQ. However, it was a self-reported cross sectional study.ConclusionThis study found no association between the use of medication for chronic diseases and the overall SPEQ score, whereas untreated anxiety was 1 of the main factors associated with female sexual dysfunction. On the other hand, medical treatments were found to contribute to lower scores in the different sexual function domains. Common drug culprits included antihypertensives, antidepressants, treatment for osteoarticular disease, diabetes medications, and polypharmacy. Hormone therapy protected against loss of libido.Gueldini de Moraes AV, Ribeiro Valadares AL, Lui Filho JF, et al. Medication Use and Sexual Function: A Population-Based Study in Middle Aged Women. J Sex Med 2019;16:1371–1380.     

How Cannabis Alters Sexual Experience: A Survey of Men and Women

IntroductionCannabis is reported to enhance sexual function; yet, previous studies have shown that physiological and subjective indices of sexual arousal and motivation were associated with decreased availability of circulating endocannabinoid concentrations.AimTo explain this contradiction, we evaluated which aspects of sexual experience were enhanced or diminished by cannabis use.MethodsWe used an online questionnaire with a convenience sample of people who had experience with cannabis. We asked questions regarding various aspects of sexual experience and whether they are affected by cannabis. We also asked about sexual dysfunction.Main Outcome MeasureAspects of participant sexual experience enhanced by cannabis.ResultsWe analyzed results from 216 questionnaires completed by people with experience using cannabis with sex. Of these, 112 (52.3%) said they used cannabis to alter their sexual experience. Eighty-two participants (38.7%) said sex was better, 34 (16.0%) said it was better in some ways and worse in others, 52 (24.5%) said it was sometimes better, and only 10 (4.7%) said it was worse. Of 202 participants, 119 (58.9%) said cannabis increased their desire for sex, 149 of the 202 participants (73.8%) reported increased sexual satisfaction, 144 of 199 participants (74.3%) reported an increased sensitivity to touch, and 132 of 201 participants (65.7%) reported an increased intensity of orgasms. Out of 199 participants, 139 (69.8%) said they could relax more during sex, and 100 of 198 participants (50.5%) said they were better able to focus. Of the 28 participants who reported difficulty reaching orgasm, 14 said it was easier to reach orgasm while using cannabis, but only 10 said that sex was better.Clinical ImplicationsThe information in this study helps clarify which aspects of sexual function can be improved or interfered with by cannabis use.Strengths & LimitationsWe asked about specific sexual effects of cannabis and were therefore able to understand the paradox of how cannabis can both improve and detract from sexual experience. Limitations of this study include bias that may have been introduced because the sample included only people who responded to the advertisements; it may not represent the general population of people who use cannabis. Moreover, over one-third of our sample said they use cannabis daily and so represent heavier than average users.ConclusionMany participants in our study found that cannabis helped them relax, heightened their sensitivity to touch, and increased intensity of feelings, thus enhancing their sexual experience, while others found that cannabis interfered by making them sleepy and less focused or had no effect on their sexual experience.Wiebe E, Just A. How Cannabis Alters Sexual Experience: A Survey of Men and Women. J Sex Med 2019; 16:1758–1762.     

The Mediating Role of Sexual Behavior in Event-Level Associations Between Sexual Difficulties and Sexual Satisfaction in Newlywed Mixed-Sex Couples

Introduction

Many sexual difficulties encountered by couples in their day-to-day lives, although of insufficient intensity and persistence to warrant a clinical diagnosis of sexual disorder, are nevertheless frequent and a source of individual and relational distress.

Are Role and Gender Related to Sexual Function and Satisfaction in Men and Women Practicing BDSM?

Background

Published studies show good psychological health of people involved in bondage-discipline, dominance-submission, and sadism-masochism (BDSM) activities; nevertheless, there are few studies on characteristics related to gender, role in the BDSM scene, sexual functioning, and satisfaction among BDSM practitioners.

Health-Related Lifestyle Factors and Sexual Dysfunction: A Meta-Analysis of Population-Based Research

Background

Sexual dysfunction is a common problem among men and women and is associated with negative individual functioning, relationship difficulties, and lower quality of life.

Sexual Dysfunction in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction occurs in any phase of sexual performance or any period of the sexual response cycle, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects self-image with repercussions on sexuality.

The Association Between Female Sexual Dysfunction and Sexual Dysfunction in the Male Partner: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BackgroundThe field of study addressing the relationship between FSD and male sexual dysfunction (MSD) represents a pivotal worldwide health issue as interrelationship between FSD and MSD studies are still inconclusive.AimTo review the interrelationship between FSD and MSD and to conclude whether there is a definitive risk of men developing sexual dysfunction when his partner is suffering from FSD.MethodsThe investigation was conducted following the standard practice for conducting and reporting the findings of systematic reviews and meta-analyses comprising of 4 electronic databases, that is, Embase, PsycInfo, Cochrane Library and Ovid (Medline) from inception to December 2019. Search strategies were developed based on relevant keywords with appropriate truncation and Boolean operators’ approach. The quality of studies was employed using the McMaster Critical Review Form for Quantitative Studies and were assessed by independent reviewers. The levels of evidence of the included studies were also determined.OutcomesMSD who had been exposed to FSD.ResultsFrom more than 8,000 studies searched, 26 studies were finally included, and most included studies have reasonable quality. Meta-analysis found a significant sexual dysfunction in men who are partnered with women with FSD. It found a consistent correlation between FDS and sexual dysfunction in men with a significant 3-fold increase in MSD who are partnered with women with FSD (odds ratio = 3.011, 95% confidence interval: 1.856–4.885, P = <.001, I² = 42.26%). Among subtypes of MSD, likelihood increased 4-fold for erectile dysfunction and that of premature ejaculation doubled. The data for several other domains on their components were mixed.Clinical TranslationThese findings support the notion that clinicians should evaluate sexual function pertaining to both partners and encompassing several dimensions and needing an interdisciplinary approach.Strength & LimitationsThis review exhaustively examines data search from vast electronic databases and as the comparison of studies is extracted from English journal publications, not all regions worldwide are represented.ConclusionThis meta-analysis and systematic review found an association between sexual dysfunction in men partnered with women with FSD, especially in the domains of erectile and ejaculatory function.Chew PY, Choy CL, Sidi Hb, et al. The Association Between Female Sexual Dysfunction and Sexual Dysfunction in the Male Partner: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Sex Med 2021;18:99–112.     

Meeting Sexual Partners Online and Associations With Sexual Risk Behaviors in the Swedish Population

BackgroundOnline arenas may facilitate sexual encounters. However, to what extent finding sexual partners online is associated with sexual risk behavior and sexual health outcomes is still not fully explored.MethodsA stratified randomized population based study on sexual and reproductive health and rights of 50,000 Swedes was conducted in 2017. The final sample consisted of 14,537 women and men aged 16–84 years. We identified sexual health factors associated with finding sexual partners online and estimated prevalences thereof.ResultsHaving used the internet to meet sexual partners was reported by 11% (95% confidence interval: 10.1–12.3) of men and 7% (95% confidence interval: 6.0–7.4) of women and was most common among men aged 30–44 years (13.7%). After adjustment, those reporting a non-heterosexual identity were most likely to meet sexual partners online. Meeting sexual partners online was also associated with reporting several sexual risk behaviors: condomless sex with temporary partner during the past 12 months, adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 5.1 (3.8–6.8) for women and AOR: 6.0 (4.5–7.9) for men, and having had a test for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) generated a 4-fold AOR for both sexes, STI diagnosis showed a 2-fold AOR, ever having paid or given other compensation for sex AOR: 4.8 (2.7–8.8) for women and AOR: 4.2 (2.9–6.1) for men as well as ever having received money or other compensation for sex AOR: 4.0 (1.3–11.9) for women and AOR: 6.0 (2.4–15.1) for men.Clinical translationMeeting sexual partners online was associated with sexual risk behaviors, which is of importance in tailoring sexual health interventions and STI/HIV-control activities.Strengths and limitationsFew studies of online sexual behaviors are based on population-based surveys of the general population with results stratified by sexual identity. However, the use of lifetime prevalence of ever having used the internet, smartphone, or app to meet sexual partners has limitations.ConclusionMeeting sexual partners online was associated with sexual risk behaviors in a randomized sample of the Swedish population, which is of importance to tailoring sexual health interventions.Deogan C, Jacobsson E, Mannheimer L, et al. Meeting Sexual Partners Online and Associations With Sexual Risk Behaviors in the Swedish Population. J Sex Med 2020;17:2141–2147.     

A Population-Based Epidemiologic Study of Female Sexual Dysfunction Risk in Mainland China: Prevalence and Predictors

BackgroundEpidemiologic data on female sexual dysfunction in China are sparse.AimTo assess the prevalence of risk of female sexual dysfunction in mainland China and its regional and sociodemographic variations and physiologic, pathologic, and behavioral risk factors.MethodsA survey of the general female population was conducted in mainland China from February 2014 through January 2016. Women were randomly selected using multistage, stratified, cluster sampling. The prevalence rate of sexual dysfunction, as measured by the Female Sexual Function Index and a score lower than 23.45 as the cutoff threshold, was determined. Multivariate logistical regression models were used to examine the effects of sociodemographic, physiologic, pathologic, and behavioral factors on women’s risk of experiencing sexual dysfunction and domain-specific sexual problems.OutcomesThe questionnaire on sexual dysfunction was completed by 25,446 women 20 to 70 years old.ResultsThe prevalence of sexual dysfunction in women 20 to 70 years old in mainland China was estimated at 29.7% (99% CI = 28.9–30.4), with large regional variations. The prevalence rates of potential domain-specific sexual problems were 21.6% (99% CI = 20.9–22.2) for low desire, 21.5 (99% CI = 20.8–22.2) for arousal disorder, 18.9% (99% CI = 18.3–19.6) for lubrication disorder, 27.9% (99% CI = 27.2–28.7) for orgasm disorder, and 14.1% (99% CI = 13.6–14.7) for sexual pain. Higher educational attainment and urban residency were associated with a decreased risk of sexual dysfunction. Women of ethnic minorities (or non-Han ethnicity) had fewer reports of sexual dysfunction than women of Han ethnicity (odds ratio = 0.67, 99% CI = 0.47–0.97). Diabetes, cancers, pelvic inflammatory disease, and pelvic organ prolapse significantly increased the reports of sexual dysfunction.Clinical TranslationThis survey provided the prevalence and risk factors of female sexual dysfunction in China, information that could be useful for potential prevention and clinical treatment.Strengths and LimitationsThis is the first large-scale, nationally based epidemiologic study of female sexual dysfunction in mainland China. The limitations of the study design included an overpowered study caused by the large sample, the under-representation of younger and unmarried women, and no information on the women’s partners, their values and knowledge, and detailed medical conditions.ConclusionsThe prevalence rate of female sexual dysfunction in mainland China was modest overall, although variations existed across regions and social groups.Zhang C, Tong J, Zhu L, et al. A Population-Based Epidemiologic Study of Female Sexual Dysfunction Risk in Mainland China: Prevalence and Predictors. J Sex Med 2017;14:1348–1356.     

Sexual and Relationship Satisfaction in Young,Heterosexual Couples: The Role of Sexual Frequency and Sexual Communication

BackgroundAlthough their individual contributions to sexual and relational outcomes are well-established, there has been a lack of research on the importance of sexual frequency and sexual communication to sexual and relationship satisfaction.AimTo examine the contribution of sexual frequency and sexual communication to sexual and relationship satisfaction in the early stages of couple relationships.MethodsA sample of 126 young, heterosexual couples (mean age = 23.3 years, SD = 2.4; average relationship duration = 1.9 years, SD = 0.9) filled out questionnaires about sexual frequency, sexual communication, and sexual and relationship satisfaction. Analyses were guided by the actor-partner interdependence model.OutcomesMain outcome variables were sexual satisfaction and relationship satisfaction, measured by the Quality of Sex Inventory and the Couple Satisfaction Index, respectively.ResultsAnalyses revealed a significant actor effect of both sexual communication and sexual frequency for sexual satisfaction. Only sexual communication, not sexual frequency, predicted relationship satisfaction. No significant partner or gender effects were found.Clinical TranslationThese findings lend support to the notion that couples could benefit from focusing on non-behavioral processes (eg, sexual communication), rather than sexual behavior per se, when pursuing a fulfilling partnership.Strengths & LimitationsStrengths of the study include the dyadic nature of the data and analyses, allowing for the evaluation of both individual- and couple-level processes. Also, to our knowledge, this is the first study to specifically examine the importance of sexual frequency and sexual communication to both sexual and relationship satisfaction. Limitations include the reliance on self-report measures and a relatively homogeneous sample.ConclusionAlthough both sexual frequency and sexual communication were relevant to the prediction of sexual satisfaction, only sexual communication predicted relationship satisfaction in this sample of young, heterosexual couples.Roels R, Janssen E. Sexual and Relationship Satisfaction in Young, Heterosexual Couples: The Role of Sexual Frequency and Sexual Communication. J Sex Med 2020;17:1643–1652.     

Development and Initial Validation of the Beliefs About Sexual Functioning Scale: A Gender Invariant Measure

BackgroundPast research on cognitive models of sexual functioning has focused on sexual beliefs as an important vulnerability factor for sexual dysfunction. However, the existing measurements of sexual beliefs are lengthy and entangle beliefs about sexual functioning with moral beliefs and ideas about sexuality. Furthermore, they have female and male versions, which does not allow for sex comparisons or dyadic research with heterosexual couples.AimTo describe the development and validation of the Beliefs About Sexual Functioning Scale (BASEF), which assesses beliefs about sexual functioning in men and women.MethodsThis study included two cross-sectional online studies with adults in heterosexual dyadic committed and exclusive relationships. In study 1 (sample A, n = 274, mean age = 32.27 years; sample B, n = 114, mean age = 30.6 years), the factorial validity of the BASEF was analyzed through an exploratory factor analysis with an initial poll of 51 items, followed by a test of its structure in a confirmatory factor analysis. In study 2 (n = 426, mean age = 31.5 years), the factorial equivalence of the BASEF was tested across sexes and its association with total scores of sexual functioning was analyzed.OutcomeThe main outcome was a new instrument for measurement of beliefs about sexual functioning.ResultsIn study 1, 15 items indicating 5 factors were retained. The structure was confirmed by confirmatory factor analysis, establishing its factorial validity with the five factors aggregated in a second-order latent variable. In study 2, the equivalence of the BASEF was demonstrated across sexes and its association with theoretically related measurements, the International Index of Erectile Function and the Female Sexual Function Index, was supported.Clinical ImplicationsThis new measurement could be useful to evaluate clients and design interventions that take into account similarity and discrepancy in sexual beliefs in couples, such as those interventions framed in cognitive and systemic clinical models.Strengths and LimitationsThis study presents a new measurement of beliefs about sexual functioning suited to address an equivalent set of beliefs for men and women. In future studies, the scale will be useful to compare the unique role of these same beliefs in the sexual outcomes of men and women. One major limitation is the lack of examination of the BASEF criterion validity with a clinical sample.ConclusionsResults are indicative of a brief, valid, and reliable sex-invariant measurement of beliefs about sexual functioning that enables testing of cognitive models of sexual functioning in men and women in clinical and research settings.Pascoal PM, Alvarez M-J, Pereira CR, Nobre P. Development and Initial Validation of the Beliefs About Sexual Functioning Scale: A Gender Invariant Measure. J Sex Med 2017;14:613–623.     

Childhood Abuse Experiences and the COMT and MTHFR Genetic Variants Associated With Male Sexual Orientation in the Han Chinese Populations: A Case-Control Study

Background

Although it is widely acknowledged that genetic and environmental factors are involved in the development of male homosexuality, the causes are not fully understood.

Sexual Behavior,Desire, and Psychosexual Experience in Gynephilic and Androphilic Trans Women: A Cross-Sectional Multicenter Study

BackgroundOne of the most prominent etiological theories of gender incongruence in trans women proposes a paraphilic erotic target location error (ie, autogynephilia) as a causal factor in gynephilic (ie, exclusively gynephilic and bisexual) trans women. We hypothesized that a paraphilic erotic target location should manifest itself in various aspects of sexual behavior, solitary and dyadic sexual desire, and psychosexual experience.AimTo compare sexual behavior, sexual desire, and psychosexual experience of exclusively gynephilic and bisexual trans women with that of androphilic trans women to explore whether their sexuality differs substantially.MethodsTrans women diagnosed with gender dysphoria (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders–5) were recruited at 4 transgender healthcare centers in Germany. The present study analyzed items on sexual behavior, desire, and experience of a self-report questionnaire, collected as part of a cross-sectional multicenter study.Main OutcomesMultiple aspects of sexuality were examined using self-constructed items. Sexual desire was measured using the Sexual Desire Inventory and psychosexual experience using the Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire.ResultsSignificantly more exclusively gynephilic than androphilic trans women reported a history of sexual arousal in relation to cross-dressing. However, little evidence was found that gynephilic and androphilic sexual desire, behavior, and psychosexual experience differ profoundly. Interestingly, a statistically non-significant trend indicated that gynephilic trans women who had not yet undergone gender affirming surgery showed the highest levels of sexual desire (solitary and dyadic), whereas the opposite was the case for androphilic trans women.Clinical TranslationData of this study indicate that sexual orientation does not appear to be a good predicator for sexual behavior, desire, and psychosexual experience in trans women.Strengths and LimitationsWe investigated sexual desire and experience using standardized and evaluated measures such as the Sexual Desire Inventory and Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire. Future studies with a larger sample size should investigate how different gender affirming medical intervention might have diverging influences on sexual behavior, desire, and experience.ConclusionUltimately, this study found little evidence for the hypothesis that sexual behavior, sexual desire, and psychosexual experience differ substantially in gynephilic (exclusively gynephilic and bisexual) and androphilic trans women.Laube JS, Auer M, Biedermann SV, et al. Sexual Behavior, Desire, and Psychosexual Experience in Gynephilic and Androphilic Trans Women: A Cross-Sectional Multicenter Study. J Sex Med 2020;17:1182–1194.     

Association Between Body Mass Index and Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Cross-sectional Study from the Data Registry on Experiences of Aging,Menopause, and Sexuality

BackgroundObesity and female sexual dysfunction (FSD) are prevalent conditions, and both are associated with significant adverse effects on health and well-being.AimTo investigate the association between body mass index and FSD, as well as potential moderators.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was performed by analyzing medical records of 6,688 women seeking consultation for menopause-related or sexual health–related concerns at women’s health clinics at Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN, and Scottsdale, AZ, between May 1, 2015, and September 15, 2019.OutcomesFemale sexual function was assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index, and sexual distress was assessed by the Female Sexual Distress Scale-Revised.ResultsBeing overweight or obese was associated with a lack of sexual activity. Among sexually active women, those who were overweight or obese had lower Female Sexual Function Index total scores and sexual function domain scores (indicating worse sexual function), including sexual arousal, lubrication, satisfaction, orgasm, and pain, and higher levels of sexual distress than those with normal weight. However, on multivariable analysis, these associations were found to be mediated by other factors, including age, level of education, reproductive stage, medication use, and mood disturbances, which are known to impact body weight and sexual function in women.Clinical ImplicationsOverweight and obesity were associated with sexual inactivity and greater odds of having FSD, which should prompt proactive assessment of sexual function.Strengths and LimitationsThe strengths of this study include the large cohort size and assessment of sexual problems in addition to sexual distress, a key component of the definition of sexual dysfunction. This study also took into account multiple potential moderating factors. Limitations include the cross-sectional design, which precludes determination of causality as well as lack of diversity in the cohort, potentially limiting generalizability of results. In addition, sexual function was not assessed in women reporting no recent sexual activity, which may confound results.ConclusionOverweight/obesity and FSD are highly prevalent conditions, which appear to be indirectly associated. These results highlight the need to identify and address FSD in all overweight and obese women, with particular attention to potential contributing factors.Faubion SS, Fairbanks F, Kuhle CL, et al. Association Between Body Mass Index and Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Cross-sectional Study from the Data Registry on Experiences of Aging, Menopause, and Sexuality. J Sex Med 2020;17:1971–1980.     

Association Between Multiple Sclerosis and Risk of Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction

It has been reported that multiple sclerosis (MS) would increase the susceptibility to female sexual dysfunction (FSD).

Association Between Overt Hyperthyroidism and Risk of Sexual Dysfunction in Both Sexes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BackgroundNumerous studies have shown the detrimental effects of overt hyperthyroidism on sexual functioning but a quantitative result has not yet been synthesized.AimTo conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis that quantifies the association between overt hyperthyroidism and the risk of sexual dysfunction (SD).MethodsA meta-analysis of studies in the literature published prior to February 1, 2020, from 4 electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library databases, and PsychINFO) was conducted. All analyses were performed using the random-effects model comparing individuals with and without overt hyperthyroidism.OutcomesThe strength of the association between overt hyperthyroidism and risk of SD was quantified by calculating the relative risk (RR) and the standard mean difierences with 95% CI. The quality of evidence for the reported outcome was based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach.ResultsOf 571 publications, a total of 7 studies involving 323,257 individuals were included. Synthetic results from 7 eligible studies indicated that overt hyperthyroidism led to significant SD in both sexes (pooled RR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.3–5.17, P = .007; heterogeneity: I² = 98.8%, P < .001). When we analyzed the data of men and women independently, the pooled results consistently showed that men and women with overt hyperthyroidism were at over 2-fold higher risk of SD than the general populations (RR for males = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.03–6.52, P = .044; RR for females = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.47–4.28, P = .001). Combined standard mean diffierences from those studies providing the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) suggested that women with overt hyperthyroidism were associated with a significantly lower FSFI value in FSFI total scores, subscale sexual arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and satisfaction domain (all P < .05). The overall quality of evidence in our study was considered to be moderate.Clinical ImplicationsClinicians should know the detrimental effects of overt hyperthyroidism on sexual functioning in clinical practice. Measurement of thyroid hormones should be included in the assessment of patients presenting with SD when they show symptoms of clinical hyperthyroidism.Strengths & LimitationsThis is the first meta-analysis quantifying the relationship between overt hyperthyroidism and the risks of SD. However, the combined results were derived from limited retrospective studies along with substantial heterogeneities.ConclusionOur study has confirmed the potentially devastating sexual health consequences caused by overt hyperthyroidism. However, additional rigorous studies with sizable samples are still needed to better elucidate this evidence.Pan Y, Xie Q, Zhang Z, et al. Association Between Overt Hyperthyroidism and Risk of Sexual Dysfunction in Both Sexes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sex Med 2020;17:2198–2207.     

The Link Between Boredom and Hypersexuality: A Systematic Review

BackgroundSome conceptualizations of hypersexuality posit boredom as a possible trigger of hypersexual behavior.AimThis work aims to review published articles addressing the link between boredom and hypersexuality to investigate if this relationship can yet be established based on current empirical data.MethodsThis systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Studies, published until September 2019, were retrieved from EBSCO, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. A systematic search was conducted using an exhaustive list of key terms combining “boredom” with “hypersexuality,” “sexual impulsivity,” “sexual compulsivity,” and “sexual addiction.” Only articles presenting empirical results concerning the relationship between boredom and hypersexuality were considered.ResultsFrom the initial poll of 76 articles, only 19 articles were included in our final selection. Of the total studies, 16 were quantitative studies and 3 were qualitative studies. 4 studies were validation studies of hypersexuality-related measures, 11 studies concerned online sexual activity, and 3 reported sexual boredom. 7 studies with men used non-heterosexual samples. 5 studies used samples with both women and men, and 1 study used a sample of women only. Most studies indicate a positive association between boredom and hypersexuality, although 4 did not.ImplicationsFurther studies with diversified samples are still indispensable, as female samples are not portrayed and research is much focused on online sexual activity. Future research should explore the relationship between boredom and hypersexuality within specific behavioral specifiers including masturbation, pornography use, sexual behavior with consenting adults, cybersex, telephone sex, and strip clubs.Strengths and limitationsTo the authors’ knowledge, this is the first review looking at the possible link between boredom and hypersexuality. Investigation on the topic is scarce, and several of the studies included in this review correspond to anecdotal evidences of the phenomenon, as only few studies used appropriate measures of boredom.ConclusionAlthough current literature identifies a link between boredom and hypersexuality, further substantive research is still much needed to clarify the associations between the 2 constructs.de Oliveira L, Carvalho J. The Link Between Boredom and Hypersexuality: A Systematic Review. J Sex Med 2020;17:994–1004.