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Sneijders G, Reitz E, Endendijk JJ. Profiles of Sexual Double Standard Norms and Their Association with Sexual Pleasure in the Context of Sexual Intercourse among Dutch Adolescents: A Person-Centered Approach. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2025; 54:641-656. [PMID: 39690346 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-024-03057-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2024] [Revised: 11/26/2024] [Accepted: 11/26/2024] [Indexed: 12/19/2024]
Abstract
Amidst the predominantly risk-focused narrative of adolescent sexual health, sexual pleasure is often overlooked. This study examined the association between adolescents' experienced sexual pleasure and profiles of sexual double standard (SDS) norms, which prescribe divergent expectations of sexuality based on gender. The sample consisted of 209 Dutch adolescents aged 16-20 years (57% female) who have had sexual intercourse. A survey assessed adolescents' endorsement of SDS norms and perceived SDS norms of parents, peers, and the media, as well as adolescents' experienced sexual pleasure. Latent profile analysis identified four distinct profiles. Profile 1 involved adolescents who held traditional personal views (e.g., seeing men as sexually dominant, women as sexually passive), but perceived less traditional external norms. Profile 2 included adolescents with egalitarian personal views (e.g., expecting similar sexual behaviors of men and women) and perceptions of less traditional external norms. Adolescents in Profile 3 had traditional personal views and perceived more traditional external messages. Adolescents in Profile 4 had egalitarian personal views coexisting with perceptions of less traditional peer and parent norms, but more traditional media norms. These profiles differed significantly in reported sexual pleasure by adolescents, with the highest levels of sexual pleasure observed in Profiles 2 and 3 and the lowest in Profile 1. Adolescent gender did not significantly moderate these relationships, indicating similar relations between SDS norms and sexual pleasure across genders. The findings underscore the complex interplay between personal norms and perceived social norms about sexuality, emphasizing the need for tailored educational strategies that effectively support adolescents in navigating differing social norms about sexuality during their sexual development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guusje Sneijders
- Child and Adolescent Studies, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Reitz
- Child and Adolescent Studies, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joyce J Endendijk
- Child and Adolescent Studies, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Utrecht University, Heidelberglaan 1, P.O. Box 80140, 3508 TC, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Taha EA, El-Kassas M, Ibrahim AK, Elkhayat MR, Fathi A, Zaki S, Soliman M, Abbas AM, Hosny A. Sexual health and quality of life among healthcare workers during COVID-19 era: a cross-sectional study. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2025; 40:213-222. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2024.2312847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/03/2025]
Affiliation(s)
- Emad A. Taha
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
| | - Mohamed El-Kassas
- Department of Endemic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University
| | - Ahmed K. Ibrahim
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
| | - Mariam R. Elkhayat
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
| | - Atef Fathi
- Department of Urology, Qena Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University
| | - Shady Zaki
- Department of Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University
| | - Mohamed Soliman
- Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University
| | - Ahmed M. Abbas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University
| | - Ahmed Hosny
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University
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3
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Cavaillon JM, Chaudry IH. Facing stress and inflammation: From the cell to the planet. World J Exp Med 2024; 14:96422. [PMID: 39713080 PMCID: PMC11551703 DOI: 10.5493/wjem.v14.i4.96422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 09/19/2024] [Indexed: 10/31/2024] Open
Abstract
As identified in 1936 by Hans Selye, stress is shaping diseases through the induction of inflammation. But inflammation display some yin yang properties. On one hand inflammation is merging with the innate immune response aimed to fight infectious or sterile insults, on the other hand inflammation favors chronic physical or psychological disorders. Nature has equipped the cells, the organs, and the individuals with mediators and mechanisms that allow them to deal with stress, and even a good stress (eustress) has been associated with homeostasis. Likewise, societies and the planet are exposed to stressful settings, but wars and global warming suggest that the regulatory mechanisms are poorly efficient. In this review we list some inducers of the physiological stress, psychologic stress, societal stress, and planetary stress, and mention some of the great number of parameters which affect and modulate the response to stress and render it different from an individual to another, from the cellular level to the societal one. The cell, the organ, the individual, the society, and the planet share many stressors of which the consequences are extremely interconnected ending in the domino effect and the butterfly effect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irshad H Chaudry
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, United States
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Pakpahan C, Agustinus A, Sa'adi A, Hinting A, Hinting L, Parmanto CM, Rezano A. Sexual intercourse before embryo transfer in assisted reproductive technology might enhance probability of pregnancy: An observational study. Arch Ital Urol Androl 2024; 96:12620. [PMID: 39356021 DOI: 10.4081/aiua.2024.12620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 10/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Modifying the maternal immune system is necessary to facilitate embryo implantation. Modifying the immune system can occur in several ways, including maternal exposure to the partner's seminal plasma. Seminal plasma exposure can occur through sexual intercourse. To prove this theory, we investigate the effect of sexual intercourse on the chances of successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) in both fresh and frozen embryo transfer (ET) groups in terms of biochemical and clinical pregnancy. METHODS This is an observational analytical study with a retrospective cohort study design. This study compared biochemical and clinical pregnancy in patient groups who had sexual intercourse with those who did not have sexual intercourse during the IVF process. This study involved 132 participants. RESULTS The results of this study reported that there was no significant difference in pregnancy rates between patients who had sex before ET and those who did not have sex before ET. However, patients who experience orgasm during sex show significant rates of biochemical (p = 0.009) and clinical pregnancy (p = 0.027) rates. CONCLUSIONS Sexual intercourse did not show a significant difference between the groups who had sex before ET and those who did not have sex, but the experience of orgasm every time they had sex recently had a positive impact on reproductive health, especially pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cennikon Pakpahan
- Andrology Study Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya; Ferina Mother and Child Hospital, Surabaya.
| | - Agustinus Agustinus
- Andrology Study Program, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya; Ferina Mother and Child Hospital, Surabaya.
| | - Ashon Sa'adi
- Ferina Mother and Child Hospital, Surabaya; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya.
| | | | | | | | - Andri Rezano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Sumedang.
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Gül M, Fode M, Urkmez A, Capogrosso P, Falcone M, Sarikaya S, Sokolakis I, Morgado A, Morozov A, Albersen M, Russo GI, Serefoglu EC. A clinical guide to rare male sexual disorders. Nat Rev Urol 2024; 21:35-49. [PMID: 37670085 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-023-00803-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Conditions referred to as 'male sexual dysfunctions' usually include erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders and male hypogonadism. However, some less common male sexual disorders exist, which are under-recognized and under-treated, leading to considerable morbidity, with adverse effects on individuals' sexual health and relationships. Such conditions include post-finasteride syndrome, restless genital syndrome, post-orgasmic illness syndrome, post-selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) sexual dysfunction, hard-flaccid syndrome, sleep-related painful erections and post-retinoid sexual dysfunction. Information about these disorders usually originates from case-control trials or small case series; thus, the published literature is scarce. As the aetiology of these diseases has not been fully elucidated, the optimal investigational work-up and therapy are not well defined, and the available options cannot, therefore, adequately address patients' sexual problems and implement appropriate treatment. Thus, larger-scale studies - including prospective trials and comprehensive case registries - are crucial to better understand the aetiology, prevalence and clinical characteristics of these conditions. Furthermore, collaborative efforts among researchers, health-care professionals and patient advocacy groups will be essential in order to develop evidence-based guidelines and novel therapeutic approaches that can effectively address these disorders. By advancing our understanding and refining treatment strategies, we can strive towards improving the quality of life and fostering healthier sexual relationships for individuals suffering from these rare sexual disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Gül
- Department of Urology, Selcuk University School of Medicine, Urology, Konya, Turkey.
| | - Mikkel Fode
- Department of Urology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ahmet Urkmez
- Department of Urology, St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Paolo Capogrosso
- Department of Urology, ASST Sette Laghi, Circolo and Fondazione Macchi Hospital, Varese, Italy
| | - Marco Falcone
- Department of Urology, Molinette Hospital, Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Selcuk Sarikaya
- Department of Urology, Gulhane Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ioannis Sokolakis
- 2nd Department of Urology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School Thessaloniki,Greece, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Afonso Morgado
- Department of Urology, Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andrey Morozov
- Institute for Urology and Reproductive Health, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maarten Albersen
- Department of Urology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Giorgio Ivan Russo
- Urology section, Department of Surgery, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Ege Can Serefoglu
- Department of Urology, Biruni University, School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
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Reda M, Sehlo M, Youssef U, Elsayed M. Impact of "COVID-19" Lockdown on Male Sexual Behavior in Egyptian Sample. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2022; 34:366-376. [PMID: 38596282 PMCID: PMC10903560 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2022.2058144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objective To assess the changes in the sexual behavior of Egyptian married men during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Methods In a cross-sectional study, the sexual behavior of 164 Egyptian married men was examined through an online questionnaire, designed by the authors, and uploaded to strictly male social media groups using Google Forms. The questionnaire included demographic and clinical variables about age, stress level about COVID-19, fear of infection during sexual relations and also compared sexual behavior before the COVID-19 lockdown. Results 39.17% of the sample reported decrease in sexual desire, 28.05% reported decrease in sexual frequency, 17.68% reported decrease in sexual satisfaction and 22% reported fear of infection with COVID-19 during sexual relations. Severe stress about COVID-19, increased rate of marital conflicts and fear of infection with COVID-19 during sexual relations were significantly associated with decreased sexual desire, frequency and satisfaction. Conclusions This study demonstrated severe stress about COVID-19, increased rate of marital conflict and fear of infection with COVID-19 during sexual activity, all of which were significantly associated with decreased levels of sexual desire, frequency and satisfaction respectively among married Egyptian men during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Promoting education to manage stress, decreasing marital conflicts and the correction of the mistaken belief that COVID-19 is a sexually transmitted disease is highly important to promote healthy sexual relations during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Reda
- Department of Psychiatry, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohammad Sehlo
- Department of Psychiatry, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Usama Youssef
- Department of Psychiatry, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Mervat Elsayed
- Department of Psychiatry, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
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Clephane K, Wilson MC, Craig AN, Heiman JR, Lorenz TK. Inflammation predicts sexual arousability in healthy women. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2021; 8. [PMID: 35669911 PMCID: PMC9165647 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Though many women report sexual arousal difficulties, the mechanisms driving these difficulties are unclear. Sexual response relies on a host of psychophysiological processes that have bidirectional relationships with inflammation. Additionally, chronic inflammation may impair genital blood flow, which in turn may impact sexual arousal. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase marker of inflammation produced in response to cytokine signaling throughout the body, which makes it a useful marker of systemic inflammation. Aim The present study examined interactions between inflammation and women's sexual arousal. Methods CRP, self-reported frequency of partnered sexual activity, and subjective and vaginal arousal were assessed in 91 healthy, pre-menopausal women. Data were collected during a single laboratory session. Main outcome measures Subjective sexual arousal and vaginal pulse amplitude (a measure of vaginal arousal) were the main outcome measures. Results Change in subjective sexual arousal in response to a sexual film was unaffected by baseline CRP and sexual frequency. However, there were significant interactions between inflammation and sexual frequency in predicting vaginal arousal during the sexual film. Among women reporting more frequent sexual activity, higher CRP predicted lower magnitude arousal response and longer time to maximum vaginal arousal. Among women reporting less frequent sex, higher CRP predicted shorter time to maximum arousal and greater magnitude of arousal response. Controlling for cortisol strengthened the effects seen for time to maximum vaginal arousal but weakened those observed for percent change. Conclusions Among healthy young women, higher CRP may be associated with vaginal arousal, but not subjective sexual arousal. Specifically, our results suggest that higher baseline CRP is associated with lower genital sexual arousal for women who have sex frequently, which is consistent with clinical evidence that elevated inflammation can be detrimental to sexual function.
Among healthy young women, higher CRP may be associated with vaginal sexual arousal, but not subjective sexual arousal. Frequency of sexual activity interacts with CRP levels to contribute to vaginal arousal in healthy women. Higher CRP predicted lower genital sexual arousal in women who engage in sexual activity more than once a week. However, higher CRP predicted greater genital sexual arousal in women who engage in sexual activity less than once a week.
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8
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Gianotten WL, Alley JC, Diamond LM. The Health Benefits of Sexual Expression. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:478-493. [PMID: 38595776 PMCID: PMC10903655 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1966564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objective Sexual activity is a fundamental human function with short-term and long-term emotional, social, and physical benefits. Yet within healthcare, sexuality has been marginalized and many HCPs are unaware of its beneficial implications for immediate and long-term health. Methods To challenge this assumption we combined the data that already had been collected by the authors with an extensive search of articles on the various health benefits of sexual activity. The results of this process are displayed according to short-term, intermediate-term, and long-term benefits with some explanation about potential causal relationships. Results For the time being, it cannot yet be proved that "good sex promotes good health" since good health also favors good sex. Conclusions Despite lacking such convincing evidence, the article concludes with recommendations for the relevant professions. The balance of research supports that sexuality anyhow deserves greater attention among HCPs and that sexuality research needs better integration within health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woet L. Gianotten
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Zhang Q, Lu H, Li F, Li X, Wang T, Yang Q, Mi L. The impact of COVID-19 on sexual behaviors of young women and men: A protocol for systematic review and meta analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e24415. [PMID: 33663053 PMCID: PMC7909130 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000024415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The worldwide impact of COVID-19 has reached all spheres of human health. Individuals may also experience unique changes in their sexual behaviors during the COVID-19 self-isolation/social distancing period. Studies in many countries have assess the effects of the pandemic on sexual behavior, or quality of sexual life. However, no systematic review has comprehensively explored the association between COVID-19 and the sexual behaviors of young women and men to date. This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol aims to ascertain the association between COVID-19 and sexual behaviors of young women and men that may get targeted interventions to improve health and well-being of young people's sexual health. METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis will be reported following the PRISMA guidelines. Observational designs (including cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort) will be eligible. Studies eligible for inclusion must contain participants aged 15 to 45 in any country affected by the pandemic of COVID-19. The search will be conducted in the following databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, EBSCO, Ovid, WHO COVID-19 database, China National Knowledge Internet (CNKI), WanFang Data, Chinese Scientific and Technological Journal Database (VIP), and Chinese Biomedical Databases (CBM). A pre-designed search strategy of medical subject heading (MeSH) terms and free words for the concepts "COVID-19" and "sexual behaviors" will be used. Two authors will independently complete literature screening, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. Disagreements will be resolved by consensus with a third reviewer. The reviewer will follow the PECOS steps (population, exposure, comparator, outcomes, and study design) to obtain eligible extraction items. The risk of bias and quality of included studies will be assessed using RevMan 5.3. We will assess heterogeneity according to the I2 statistics. If there is substantial heterogeneity in the included trials, subgroup analysis will be carried out to seek the potential causes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION It is not necessary to obtain ethical approval as we will use data from published articles. The findings of this systematic review will be published in a peer- reviewed journal. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO 2020: CRD42020190867.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Zhang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road
| | - Hua Lu
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road
| | - Fangyuan Li
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road
| | - Xinyun Li
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road
| | - Tong Wang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road
| | - Qian Yang
- College of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.37 Shi-er-qiao Road
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.39 Shi-er-qiao Road
| | - Ling Mi
- Maternal and Child Reproductive Hospital affiliated to Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, NO.17, Section 4, South Renmin Road, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, PR China
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Cabello F, Sánchez F, Farré JM, Montejo AL. Consensus on Recommendations for Safe Sexual Activity during the COVID-19 Coronavirus Pandemic. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E2297. [PMID: 32698369 PMCID: PMC7408907 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9072297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Sexual activity offers numerous advantages for physical and mental health but maintains inherent risks in a pandemic situation, such as the current one caused by SARS-CoV-2. A group of experts from the Spanish Association of Sexuality and Mental Health (AESexSAME) has reached a consensus on recommendations to maintain lower-risk sexual activity, depending on one's clinical and partner situations, based on the current knowledge of SARS-CoV-2. Different situations are included in the recommendations: a sexual partner passing quarantine without any symptoms, a sexual partner that has not passed quarantine, a sexual partner with some suspicious symptoms of COVID-19, a positive sexual partner with COVID-19, a pregnant sexual partner, a health professional partner in contact with COVID-19 patients, and people without a sexual partner. The main recommendations include returning to engaging in safe sex after quarantine is over (28 days based on the duration one can carry SARS-CoV-2, or 33 days for those who are >60 years old) and all parties are asymptomatic. In all other cases (for those under quarantine, those with some clinical symptoms, health professionals in contact with COVID-19 patients, and during pregnancy), abstaining from coital/oral/anal sex, substituting it with masturbatory or virtual sexual activity to provide maximum protection from the contagion, and increasing the benefits inherent to sexual activity are recommended. For persons without a partner, not initiating sexual activity with a sporadic partner is strongly recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Cabello
- Instituto Andaluz de Sexología y Psicología, Alameda Principal 21, 5º, 29001 Malaga, Spain;
| | - Froilán Sánchez
- Centro de Salud de Xàtiva, Avenida de Ausìas March s/n. Xàtiva, 46800 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Josep M. Farré
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychology and Psychosomatics, Dexeus University Hospital, Carrer de Sabino Arana, 5, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | - Angel L. Montejo
- Hospital Universitario Psychiatry Department, University of Salamanca Nursing School, Institute of Biomedical Research (IBSAL). Av., Donantes de Sangre SN, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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11
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Lorenz TK. Interactions between inflammation and female sexual desire and arousal function. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2019; 11:287-299. [PMID: 33312080 PMCID: PMC7731354 DOI: 10.1007/s11930-019-00218-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe the current state of research on interactions between inflammation and female sexual function. RECENT FINDINGS Inflammation may interfere with female sexual desire and arousal via direct (neural) and indirect (endocrine, vascular, social/behavioral) pathways. There are significant sex differences in the effect of inflammation on sexual function, arising from different evolutionary selection pressures on regulation of reproduction. A variety of inflammation-related conditions are associated with risk of female sexual dysfunction, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and chronic pain. SUMMARY Clinical implications include the need for routine assessment for sexual dysfunction in patients with inflammation-related conditions, the potential for anti-inflammatory diets to improve sexual desire and arousal function, and consideration of chronic inflammation as moderator of sexual effects of hormonal treatments. Although the evidence points to a role for inflammation in the development and maintenance of female sexual dysfunction, the precise nature of these associations remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tierney K Lorenz
- Department of Psychology and Center for Brain, Biology and Behavior, University of Nebraska at Lincoln
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12
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Pyter LM, Bever SR, Khantsis S, Glasper ER. Sexual activity modulates neuroinflammatory responses in male rats. Physiol Behav 2018; 197:42-50. [PMID: 30248302 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2018.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Immune activity influences reproduction, however, the extent to which mating experience may inversely alter immune pathways is poorly understood. A few studies in humans suggest that mating triggers a circulating immune and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis response. In male rats, mating experience enhances neuroplasticity and improves cognitive function and affective-like behavior, independent of the physical activity component. Yet, the extent to which mating experience may influence immune responses in the brain remain unexplored. Here, we hypothesized that recent mating experience in male rats increases neuroinflammatory signaling (via lipopolysaccharide [LPS] stimulation, i.p.) and associated sickness behaviors (i.e., food intake, weight loss) relative to sexually-naïve controls. Virgin male rats were exposed to a sexually non-receptive (control) or sexually-receptive female for 30 min for six consecutive days. Immediately following the last mating experience, rats were administered a saline or LPS injection and euthanized four hours later. Mating increased Tnfα responses to LPS in the brain, which positively correlated with LPS-induced weight loss. Mating also increased peripheral corticosterone among saline-treated rats, but this corticosterone response was attenuated in the most proficient copulators (e.g., shortest latencies). Thus, recent mating experience may be a unique modulator of select stimulated inflammatory signals that are relevant to adaptive neuroimmune responses and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leah M Pyter
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Behavioral Neuroendocrinology Group, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Arthur G. James Comprehensive Cancer Center, Solove Research Institute, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Savannah R Bever
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA; Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Sabina Khantsis
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | - Erica R Glasper
- Department of Psychology, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA; Program in Neuroscience and Cognitive Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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Cabeza de Baca T, Epel ES, Robles TF, Coccia M, Gilbert A, Puterman E, Prather AA. Sexual intimacy in couples is associated with longer telomere length. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 81:46-51. [PMID: 28411413 PMCID: PMC5496682 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
High-quality relationships have been shown to be beneficial for physical and mental health. This study examined overall relationship satisfaction and perceived stress as well as daily reports of partner support, partner conflict, and physical intimacy obtained over the course of one week in a sample of 129 high and low stress mothers. Telomere length was examined in whole blood, as well as the two cell subpopulations: peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and granulocytes. Telomerase activity was measured in PBMCs. Analyses revealed no statistically significant associations of telomere length with current relationship satisfaction, daily support or conflict, or perceived stress. In contrast, women who reported any sexual intimacy during the course of the week had significantly longer telomeres measured in whole blood and PBMCs, but not in granulocytes. These relationships held covarying for age, body mass index, perceived stress, the relationship indices, and caregiver status. Sexual intimacy was not significantly related to PBMC telomerase activity. These data provide preliminary data that sexual intimacy is associated with longer telomere length. Future studies investigating these associations are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Cabeza de Baca
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California St Suite 465, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA.
| | - Elissa S Epel
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California St Suite 465, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA
| | | | - Michael Coccia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California St Suite 465, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA
| | - Amanda Gilbert
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California St Suite 465, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA
| | - Eli Puterman
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Aric A Prather
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Francisco, 3333 California St Suite 465, San Francisco, CA 94118, USA.
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Dufour CMS, Pillay N, Ganem G. Ventro–ventral copulation in a rodent: a female initiative? J Mammal 2015. [DOI: 10.1093/jmammal/gyv106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Lorenz T, van Anders S. Interactions of sexual activity, gender, and depression with immunity. J Sex Med 2013; 11:966-979. [PMID: 23448297 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Depression can suppress immune function, leading to lower resistance against infection and longer healing times in depressed individuals. Sexuality may also influence immune function, with evidence that sexual activity is associated with lowered immune function in women and mixed results in men. Immune mediators like immunoglobulin A (IgA) are immediately relevant to sexual health, since they are the first line of defense against pathogens at mucous membranes like the vagina. AIM This study aims to determine if and how depression, sexual activity, and their interaction impact salivary IgA (SIgA) in men and women. METHODS In Study 1, a community-based sample of 84 women and 88 men provided saliva samples and completed questionnaires on their demographic background, level of depression, and frequency of partnered and solitary sexual activity. Study 2, conducted separately in an undergraduate student sample of 54 women and 52 men, had similar methods. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The main outcome measures were scores on the General Well-Being Schedule depression subscale, reported frequency of sexual activity, and SIgA levels as measured by enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS Across studies, higher levels of partnered sexual activity were associated with lower SIgA for women with high depression scores, but not for women with low depression scores. In contrast, higher levels of partnered sexual activity were associated with higher SIgA for men with high depression scores, but not for men with low depression scores. CONCLUSION Our results show that partnered sexual activity is a risk factor for lowered immunity in women with depressive symptoms but a possible resilience factor for men with depressive symptoms. This suggests a role for sexual activity in determining the impact of depression on physical health parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tierney Lorenz
- Department of PsychologyUniversity of Texas at AustinAustinTXUSA; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral SciencesUniversity of Washington School of MedicineSeattleWAUSA.
| | - Sari van Anders
- Departments of Psychology and Women's Studies, and Programs in Neuroscience, Reproductive Sciences, and Science, Technology, and SocietyUniversity of Michigan at Ann ArborAnn Arbor MI USA
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OHIRA HIDEKI. Modulation of stress reactivity in brain and body by serotonin transporter promoter polymorphism1. JAPANESE PSYCHOLOGICAL RESEARCH 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-5884.2011.00465.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION We describe two men with marked symptoms following orgasm. In each case, the symptoms were consistent with those found in postorgasm illness syndrome (POIS). AIM Further elucidation of the cause of the patients' symptoms. METHODS Both cases were investigated for causes of POIS with biochemical, hormonal, neurological, autonomic, cardiological, and psychological workup. RESULTS Extensive investigation did not reveal a major organic cause for these patients' symptoms. Detailed history revealed likely differing etiologies in each case. In one case, the symptom picture suggested cytokine release, and, in fact, the patient subjectively improved by 80% on taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs just prior to and for a day or two after orgasm. The other case appeared to have an ethnic/cultural etiology that was associated with the "Dhat" syndrome. CONCLUSION The apparent differing etiologies/clinical associations of these cases highlight the need for careful history, examination, and investigations in patients presenting with POIS. We recommend that each case needs individual consideration and investigation, and treatment needs to be tailored to the likely cause. It seems likely that POIS represents a spectrum of syndromes of differing etiologies. Further research into the neurobiochemical sequelae of orgasm will be useful in understanding the pathological processes in these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Ashby
- Genitourinary Medicine/Human Immune deficiency Virus, Imperial College, St. Mary's Hospital, London, UK.
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Carro-Juárez M, Rodríguez-Manzo G. The spinal pattern generator for ejaculation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 58:106-20. [PMID: 18241924 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresrev.2007.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2007] [Revised: 11/14/2007] [Accepted: 12/05/2007] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Carro-Juárez
- Laboratorio de Comportamiento Reproductivo, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Tlaxcala, C.P.90000, Tlaxcala, México.
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Matsunaga M, Isowa T, Kimura K, Miyakoshi M, Kanayama N, Murakami H, Sato S, Konagaya T, Nogimori T, Fukuyama S, Shinoda J, Yamada J, Ohira H. Associations among central nervous, endocrine, and immune activities when positive emotions are elicited by looking at a favorite person. Brain Behav Immun 2008; 22:408-17. [PMID: 17977695 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2007.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2007] [Revised: 09/14/2007] [Accepted: 09/21/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies on psychoneuroimmunology have indicated that positive psychological events are related to immune functions; however, limited information is available regarding associations among the central nervous, endocrine, and immune systems when positive emotions are elicited. In the present study, we demonstrated associations among these systems by simultaneously recording brain, endocrine, and immune activities when positive emotions were evoked in participants as they watched films featuring their favorite persons. Interestingly, the activity of peripheral circulating natural killer cells and the peripheral dopamine level were elevated while participants experienced positive emotions, and these values were positively correlated. The following brain regions were significantly activated in the positive condition relative to the control condition: medial prefrontal cortex, thalamus, hypothalamus, subcallosal gyrus, posterior cingulate cortex, superior temporal gyrus, and cerebellum. Further, covariate analyses indicated that these brain regions were temporally associated with endocrine and immune activities. These results suggest that while an individual experiences positive emotions, the central nervous, endocrine, and immune systems may be interrelated and attraction for favorite persons may be associated with the activation of the innate immune function via the dopaminergic system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masahiro Matsunaga
- Department of Psychology, Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan.
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Levin RJ. Sexual activity, health and well-being – the beneficial roles of coitus and masturbation. SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2007. [DOI: 10.1080/14681990601149197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Jiao C, Turman B, Weerakoon P, Knight P. Alterations in grip strength during male sexual arousal. Int J Impot Res 2005; 18:206-9. [PMID: 16254571 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ijir.3901399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Although it is known that alterations in grip strength occur under a number of conditions, little is known about relationships between grip strength and sexual arousal. This relationship was investigated in 30 healthy heterosexual males, who viewed both erotic and nonerotic videos. A questionnaire was used to assess the extent of sexual arousal. The grip strengths of both hands were measured with a five-position (P1-P5) dynamometer, before and after watching the videos. After watching the erotic video, there was a statistically significant reduction in grip strength for the P2 position, with nonsignificant overall reductions in grip strength for all other positions tested. No such effect was observed in control tests. The results indicate that during sexual arousal, the neural system is likely to reduce the output to muscles not directly related to sexual function, presumably to enhance the physiological responses of sexual arousal.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Jiao
- 1School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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