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Sexual Desire (sexual + desire)

Distribution by Scientific Domains

Medical Sciences	84%
Psychology	11%
Humanities and Social Sciences	4%

Distribution within Medical Sciences

Andrology	13%
Urology	4%

Kinds of Sexual Desire

hypoactive sexual desire

Terms modified by Sexual Desire

sexual desire disorder

Selected Abstracts

Sex Hormones and Sexual Desire

JOURNAL FOR THE THEORY OF SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR, Issue 1 2008
JAMES GILES
ABSTRACT Some scholars attempt to explain sexual desire biologically by claiming that sex hormones play a necessary causal role in sexual desire. This can be claimed even if sexual desire is seen to be an experience. Yet the evidence for such biological essentialism is inadequate. With males the loss of sexual desire following hormonal changes can easily be explained in terms of social stigmas that are attached to the physiological situation. Concerning females, the relevance of sex hormones here is even more unclear. Although some women seem to have fluctuations in sexual desire during hormonal changes, other women do not. Even where there are such fluctuations these can be explained by responses to other physiological changes or the meanings that are attached to the situation. Research with non-human primates supports this view of the non-essential relation of sex hormones to sexual desire. A phenomenology of sex hormones is given that shows a possible non-essential relation between sex hormones and sexual desire. Here hormone induced excitations in the genitals may or may not lead to sexual desire depending on the meaning they are given within awareness. This suggests that sexual desire has its origin in the meanings we give our biology and not in our biology itself. [source]

Sexual Desire, Moral Choice, and Human Ends

JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PHILOSOPHY, Issue 2 2002
Laurence Thomas
First page of article [source]

Reduced Labial Temperature in Response to Sexual Films with Distractors among Women with Lower Sexual Desire

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 2pt2 2010
Nicole Prause PhD
ABSTRACT Introduction., Sexual desire variation traditionally has been treated as due to variance in affective response to sexual stimulation, but differences in attention to the stimuli may better account for differences in sexual desire. Aim., Determine whether sexual desire varies due to attention biases towards sexual stimuli. Main outcome measures., Sexual arousal was quantified by physiological (labia minus temperature) and experienced (continuously adjusting a potentiometer) indicators. Methods., Twenty-two women who varied in their level of sexual desire attended one laboratory session during which they viewed a neutral nature film, a sexual film, and a sexual film with distractors while their labial temperature and self-reported sexual arousal were recorded. Results., Participants reported and displayed lower sexual arousal during the sexual stimulus with distractors as compared to the sexual film without distractors. While all women reported lower sexual arousal to the sexual film with distractors, women with relatively lower sexual desire also reported lower sexual arousal to the sexual film with no distractors than women with higher sexual desire. Physiologically, women with lower sexual desire exhibited lower labial temperature. Conclusions., Since the predicted lower self-reported and physiological sexual arousal to the sexual stimulus with distractors for the women with lower sexual desire did not emerge, this study does not support that sexual desire levels vary due to differential attention to sexual stimuli. Prause N, and Heiman J. Reduced labial temperature in response to sexual films with distractors among women with lower sexual desire. J Sex Med 2010;7:951,963. [source]

ORIGINAL RESEARCH,EPIDEMIOLOGY: Sexual Desire in a Nationally Representative Danish Population

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2007
Lene Eplov MD
ABSTRACT Introduction., There are only a few studies on the frequency of sexual desire in the general population, whereas studies investigating the frequency of disordered sexual desire are more common. Aim., The aim of this study was to describe the frequency of sexual desire in a representative sample of the adult Danish population and to analyze the relationships between a number of relevant variables and sexual desire. Methods., The study population (N = 10,458, response rate 84.8%) answered a questionnaire with questions on sexual matters. The representativity of the population was examined. The frequency of self-reported sexual desire and decrease in sexual desire over a 5-year period was calculated for the two genders across age cohorts. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the relationship between potential determinants and sexual desire. Main Outcome Measures., The frequency of self-reported sexual desire and decrease in sexual desire was examined. Factors of importance for sexual desire were tested using two outcome measures: (i) often having sexual desire; and (ii) seldom having sexual desire. Results., A significant association between gender and sexual desire was found in all age groups, as men had a significantly higher level of sexual desire than women. In both genders, the frequency of sexual desire was significantly reduced with increasing age. Among the 45- to 66-year-olds, 57% of the men and 47% of the women reported no change in the level of sexual desire over the past 5 years. In general terms, factors related to seldom having sexual desire were age and social, psychological, and physical distress in both genders. Conclusion., This study shows that overall, men have a higher level of sexual desire than women; sexual desire decreases with increasing age; and social, psychological, or physical distress are associated with low level of sexual desire in both genders. Eplov L, Giraldi A, Davidsen M, Garde K, and Kamper-Jørgensen F. Sexual desire in a nationally representative Danish population. J Sex Med 2007;4:47,56. [source]

ORIGINAL RESEARCH,MEN'S SEXUAL HEALTH: Sexual Function in Male Patients Undergoing Treatment for Renal Failure: A Prospective View

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 12 2009
Anmar Nassir MD, FRCS(C)
ABSTRACT Introduction., Chronic renal failure in males causes wide-ranging disturbances including sexual dysfunction. The percentage and progression of sexual dysfunction in patients entering a dialysis program require further evaluation. Aim., Our aim was to determine the ongoing effect of standard renal failure treatment on sexual function. Methods., The sexual function was assessed prospectively, upon initiation of dialysis and every 10,12 months while on dialysis or after kidney transplantation. Participants were adult males with sexual partners. Main Outcome Measure., The semiquantitative standard International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire was used initially as a baseline and compared with all subsequent follow-up measures. Results., Fifty-two patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria and completed the questionnaire. Of the 52 subjects, 25 were on hemodialysis and 27 were on peritoneal dialysis. Only 17.3% of participants were potent upon entry into the study. Of the rest, 71% was classified as suffering from severe erectile dysfunction (ED). Sexual desire appeared less affected when compared with other domains. Of the study participants, 67% expressed an interest in treatment for ED, but only 12% had ever received any such therapy. Follow-up ranged from 10 months to 48 months. After excluding kidney-transplanted patients, ED scores on entry and at four subsequent reassessments were almost identical and showed no significant statistical differences. Patients showed significant improvement in ED score after kidney transplantation, with scores remaining high for 20,36 months of follow-up, compared with pre-transplantation. Conclusions., This prospective study suggests that dialysis does not benefit sexual function, although a benefit was seen in a subset of men undergoing renal transplantation. We conclude that sexual function in men beginning dialysis should be assessed, and treatment for ED should be offered if appropriate. Nassir A. Sexual function in male patients undergoing treatment for renal failure: A prospective view. J Sex Med 2009;6:3407,3414. [source]

ORIGINAL RESEARCH,EPIDEMIOLOGY: Sexual Desire in a Nationally Representative Danish Population

Erectile dysfunction risk factors for patients entering dialysis programme

ANDROLOGIA, Issue 1 2010
A. Nassir
Summary The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors of erectile dysfunction (ED) for patients entering the dialysis programme with haemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD). Participants were adult males with sexual partners. They were given the semi-quantitative standard International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire. We added the common risk factors in specially designed questions to cover our objectives. The data were analysed using a multivariate regression model. Fifty-two patients fulfilled the eligibility criteria and completed this questionnaire. Twenty-five were on HD and 27 on PD. Only 17.3% were potent on entry into the study. Among the rest 71% were classified under severe ED. Sexual desire appeared less affected in comparison to other domains. Although 66.6% expressed their interest in treatment for ED, none of the patients received any. Stepwise selection analysis identified the only significant risk factor to be older age. There was no difference between the two populations of HD and PD. It is concluded that ED is very prevalent in men beginning dialysis; it should be assessed and treatment be offered. [source]

Comparative study of sexuality-related characteristics in young adults with schizophrenia treated with novel neuroleptics and in normal young adults

ACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2002
P. Fortier
This study compared characteristics related to sexual history, sexual activities, sexual functioning and psychological tendencies associated with sexuality in 45 young adults with schizophrenia treated with novel neuroleptics and 61 control young adults. A smaller proportion of young adults with schizophrenia currently had a sexual partner or had ever engaged in sexual relations. They also had sexual relations and sexual desires less often. Whether affected by schizophrenia or not, a smaller proportion of women had ever masturbated. They felt less sexual desire and desired sexual relations less often. Compared to controls, a higher proportion of men with schizophrenia treated with Risperidone or Olanzapine had at least one sexual dysfunction, lacked sexual desire and reported problems with sexual arousal and ejaculation. Women with schizophrenia were more likely to report problems with sexual arousal and galactorrhea. Finally, young adults with schizophrenia develop more negative psychological tendencies associated with sexuality than were normal young adults. Sexual problems are highly prevalent among young adults with schizophrenia. Sexuality should occupy the space it deserves within psychosocial rehabilitation programs and the treatment of schizophrenia. [source]

Not Tonight, I Have a Headache?

HEADACHE, Issue 6 2006
Timothy T. Houle PhD
Objective.,The present study examined the relationship between the diagnosis of migraine and self-reported sexual desire. Background.,There is evidence for a complex relationship between sexual activity and headache, particularly migraine. The current headache diagnostic criteria even distinguish between several types of primary headaches associated with sexual activity. Methods.,Members of the community or students at the Illinois Institute of Technology (N = 68) were administered the Brief Headache Diagnostic Interview and the Sexual Desire Inventory (SDI). Based on the revised diagnostic criteria established by the International Headache Society (ICHD-II), participants were placed in 1 of the 2 headache diagnostic groups: migraine (n = 23) or tension-type (n = 36). Results.,Migraine subjects reported higher SDI scores, and rated their own perceived level of desire higher than those suffering from tension-type headache. The presence of the symptom "headache aggravated by routine physical activity" significantly predicted an elevated SDI score. Conclusions.,Migraine headaches and sexual desire both appear to be at least partially modulated by serotonin (5-HT). The metabolism of 5-HT has been shown to covary with the onset of a migraine attack, and migraineurs appear to have chronically low systemic 5-HT. As sexual desire also has been linked to serotonin levels, the results are consistent with the hypothesis that migraine and sexual desire both may be modulated by similar serotonergic phenomena. [source]

Sexual dysfunction in subjects with Klinefelter's syndrome

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY, Issue 4 2010
G. Corona
Summary While the association of Klinefelter's Syndrome (KS) with infertility is well-known, very few investigations have evaluated the prevalence of sexual dysfunction in KS. The aim of the present study was to systematically analyse the prevalence of KS in a consecutive series of adult male patients consulting for sexual problems and to investigate its specific correlates. Among a consecutive series of 1386 men (mean age 48.9 ± 12.7 years old), 23 (1.7%) subjects with KS were found. Patients with KS were younger and more often hypogonadal when compared with the rest of the sample. Among patients with KS, five (22.7%) subjects reported severe erectile dysfunction, 14 (60.9%) hypoactive sexual desire (HSD), two (9.5%) premature and two (9.5%) delayed ejaculation. Only the association between KS and HSD was confirmed after adjustment for age [HR = 3.2 (1.37,7.5)], however, when patients with KS were compared with age, smoking habit, and testosterone matched controls, even the association between KS with HSD disappeared. In comparison to matched hypogonadal controls, subjects with KS had lower levels of education, a higher frequency of cryptorchidism and poorer pubertal progression. In conclusion, our results indicate that sexual dysfunction present in KS is not specifically associated with the syndrome but is caused by the underlying hypogonadal state. Further studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of testosterone substitution in ameliorating the hypoactive sexual desire often reported in subjects with KS. [source]

The impotent couple: low desire

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ANDROLOGY, Issue 2005
G. CORONA
Summary Hypoactive sexual desire (HSD) is the deficiency of sexual fantasies and desire that should be considered as a disorder if it causes distress to the couple. In the general population, it is the most widespread sexuality-related problem. It is generally accepted that testosterone and prolactin regulate sexual desire. We recently reported that other psychobiological factors associate with HSD in a sample of almost 500 male patients attending our Outpatient Clinic for sexual dysfunction, by using SIEDY structured interview. We now originally extend investigation to a threefold broader patient sample. Considering marital parameters, perceived partner's libido and climax, patient's partner diseases, conflictual or even prolonged couple relationship were all significantly associated with an impairment of patients' sexual desire. Moreover, other lifestyle factors as satisfaction at work and/or domestic inhabitant relationship were significantly correlated to hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). Among hormonal parameters, severe hyperprolactinaemia (>700 mU/L), although rarely diagnosed (<2.0%), seems to play a greater role than the more common (23%) endocrine disease hypogonadism (testosterone < 12 nm) to the pathogenesis of HSD (RR = 7.5 [2.5,22.4] vs. 1.5 [1.1,1.9], respectively). Both mental disorders and use of medication interfering with sexual function were also significantly associated with HSDD, as well as depressive and anxiety symptoms. Finally, HSD was inversely correlated to sexual and masturbation frequency attempts. In conclusion, HSD is associated with several biological, psychological, and relational factors that can be simultaneously identified and quantified using the SIEDY structured interview. [source]

Effect of enhanced external counterpulsation on medically refractory angina patients with erectile dysfunction

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE, Issue 5 2007
W. E. Lawson
Summary Patients with refractory angina often suffer from erectile dysfunction. Enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) decreases symptoms of angina, and increases nitric oxide release. This study evaluated the effect of EECP on sexual function in men with severe angina. The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) was used to assess erectile function of severe angina patients enroled in the International EECP Patient Registry. Their symptom status, medication use, adverse clinical events and quality of life were also recorded before and after completing a course of EECP. A cohort of 120 men (mean age 65.0 ± 9.7) was enroled. The men had severe coronary disease with 69% having a prior myocardial infarction, 90% prior coronary artery bypass graft or percutaneous coronary intervention, 49% with three vessel coronary artery disease, 86% were not candidates for further revascularisation, 71% hypertensive, 83% dyslipidaemia, 42% diabetes mellitus, 75% smoking and 68% using nitrates. Functional status was low with a mean Duke Activity Status Inventory score of 16.6 ± 14.8. After 35 h of EECP anginal status improved in 89%, and functional status in 63%. A comparison of the IIEF scores pre- and post-EECP therapy demonstrated a significant improvement in erectile function from 10.0 ± 1.0 to 11.8 ± 1.0 (p = 0.003), intercourse satisfaction (4.2 ± 0.5 to 5.0 ± 0.5, p = 0.009) and overall satisfaction (4.7 ± 0.3 to 5.3 ± 0.3, p = 0.001). However, there were no significant changes in orgasmic function (4.2 ± 0.4 to 4.6 ± 0.4, p = 0.19) or sexual desire (5.3 ± 0.2 to 5.5 ± 0.2). The findings suggest that EECP therapy is associated with improvement in erectile function in men with refractory angina. [source]

Success of sildenafil treatment in neurogenic female sexual dysfunction caused by L5-S1 intervertebral disk rupture: A case report

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 6 2007
Dean Ferrara
Abstract: Female sexual dysfunction can be founded by disorders of sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, and sexual pain. Physiologic sexual dysfunction can, in many cases, be the result of impaired neurovascular tone to the clitoris and vagina. The vagina and clitoris both contain erectile tissue and phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). Accordingly, the use of sildenafil, a PDE5 inhibitor, has been studied in relation to neurogenic female sexual dysfunction. The present case report addresses neurogenic female sexual dysfunction from the result of a ruptured L5-S1 intervertebral disk. The patient was treated with sildenafil, and her symptoms were recorded using a Female Sexual Function Index score. Discussion of the use of sildenafil in women, with an emphasis on female neurovascular sexual physiology and function, is reviewed. [source]

Sex Hormones and Sexual Desire

Sexual Orientation and Sex in Women's Lives: Conceptual and Methodological Issues

JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES, Issue 2 2000
Esther D. Rothblum
Use of such categorical terms as heterosexual, bisexual, and lesbian is widespread, yet research indicates that sexuality is a multidimensional phenomenon. Sexual behavior, identity, and desire are not highly intercorrelated for women, and this has implications for new ways of conceptualizing sexual orientation. Furthermore, the multifaceted nature of sexual orientation has implications for conceptualizing sexual activity and sexual desire for women. Some methodological issues are presented for future research on female sexual orientation, including a better understanding of gender and a more multifaceted approach to sexual orientation. [source]

"La manie d'Écrire": Psychology, auto-observation, and case history

JOURNAL OF THE HISTORY OF THE BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES, Issue 3 2004
Matt T. Reed
This essay examines the modern psychiatric case study as a scientific method and as a genre of writing about the self. As psychological discourse became a privileged language of selfhood at the fin de siècle, the penultimate signifier of the self came to be found in the realm of sexuality, in the particular contours of an individual's sexual desire. The investigative tool used to uncover these secrets of identity was the case history. This article concerns an influential project of sexual research based on "auto-observations",autobiographical patient narratives,conducted by Dr. Georges Saint-Paul, who published under the inverted pseudonym "Laupts." The article focuses on the central autobiography of his collection, the "roman d'un inverti," and related sexological literature to suggest how this emphasis on patient stories in psychiatric writing engendered new narrative possibilities for doctors and patients alike. Putting patient stories at the center of psychiatric investigation created a new relationship between patient and doctor, observation and diagnosis, subject and discourse. The tools of psychological observation simultaneously placed a subject's confession more firmly at the center of the investigation and made it more open to interpretation by nonspecialists. Rather than simply confirming the authority of the trained observer, the story of Laupts's enquête suggests that the method actually authorized inquiry by others. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source]

DISTINGUISHED SCHOLAR ARTICLE Rethinking women's sexual orientation: An interdisciplinary, relationship-focused approach

PERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS, Issue 1 2001
LETITIA ANNE PEPLAU
What leads some women to form romantic and sexual relationships with men, and other women to form intimate relationships with women? This article presents a new conceptual paradigm for understanding women's sexual orientation that is emerging from research in such diverse fields as social psychology, sex research, evolutionary psychology, attachment theory, and neuroscience. This approach acknowledges the potential plasticity of women's sexuality and the emphasis that women place on close relationships as a context for sexuality. Research also raises the possibility that for women the biological determinants of sexual desire, attraction, and attachment are not inherently linked to a partner's gender. This article begins with a brief survey of research on women's same-sex romantic and sexual relationships not only in the United States today but also in other cultures and historical periods. These and other findings are used to critique prevailing conceptual models of women's sexual orientation. Finally, key elements in an alternative paradigm are described. [source]

Latest news and product developments

PRESCRIBER, Issue 8 2007
Article first published online: 23 JUL 200
Lamotrigine for partial, valproate for generalised A large UK trial has shown that lamotrigine is the most effective choice in the treatment of partial epilepsy (Lancet 2007;369: 1000-15). The SANAD trial, commissioned by the National Institute for Health Research's Health Technology Assessment programme, randomised 1721 patients (for whom carbamazepine monotherapy would have been the treatment of choice) to treatment with carbamazepine, gabapentin, lamotrigine, oxcarbazepine (Trileptal) or topiramate (Topamax). Lamotrigine was associated with a longer time to treatment failure, though time to 12-month remission favoured carbamazepine. Over four years' follow-up, lamotrigine was numerically but not significantly superior. The authors concluded lamotrigine is clinically superior to carbamazepine for partial epilepsy A second arm of the trial, yet to be published, evaluated the treatment of generalised epilepsy and found valproate to be clinically most effective, though topiramate was cost effective for some patients. Chronic pain common in nursing homes Most residents in nursing homes say they have long- term pain but only one in seven say a health professional has ever discussed its treatment with them, according to a report by the Patients' Association (www.patients-association.org.uk). Pain in Older People ,A Hidden Problem was a qualitative study of 77 older residents in care homes in England. Most were frail and suffered long-term illness. The study found that 85 per cent of residents said they were often troubled by aches or pains and these lasted over a year in 74 per cent. Most described their pain as moderate (33 per cent) or severe (38 per cent) but 8 per cent said it was excruciating. Many reported limitations on mobility and social activities despite a high level of stoicism. All but one were taking medication to relive pain; one-third experienced adverse effects but 78 per cent believed drugs offered the most effective treatment. One-quarter said a doctor or nurse had discussed how to stop their pain worsening, and 15 per cent said they had discussed how to treat their pain. Visits from GPs appeared to be uncommon. Atherothrombotic events despite treatment Between one in five and one in seven of high-risk patients experience atherothrombotic events despite evidence-based treatment, the REACH study has shown (J Am Med Assoc 2007;297:1197-1206). REACH (REduction of Atherothrombosis for Continued Health) is an international observational study involving 68 236 patients with atherothrombotic disease or at least three risk factors. Most were taking conventional evidence-based medication. After one year, the incidence of the combined endpoint of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, stroke or hospitalisation for atherothrombotic events was approximately 15 per cent for patients with coronary artery disease or cardiovascular disease, and 21 per cent in patients with peripheral artery disease and established coronary disease. Event rates increased with the number of vascular beds affected, rising to 26 per cent in patients with three symptomatic arterial disease locations. Extended CD prescribing by nurses and pharmacists The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is consulting on expanding the prescribing of controlled drugs (CDs) by nonmedical prescribers. Currently, nurse independent prescribers can prescribe 12 CDs, including diamorphine and morphine, but pharmacist independent prescribers may not prescribe any CDs. The proposal is to allow both professions to prescribe any CDs within their competence, with the exception of cocaine, diamorphine or dipipanone for the management of addiction. The closing date for consultation is 15 June. Consultation is also underway on expanding the range of CDs nurses and pharmacists can prescribe under a patient group direction (PGD), and their use for pain relief. The closing date for consultation is 20 April. Intrinsa: transdermal testosterone for women A transdermal formulation of testosterone has been introduced for the treatment of low sexual desire associated with distress in women who have experienced an early menopause following hysterectomy involving a bilateral oophorectomy and are receiving concomitant oestrogen therapy. Manufacturer Procter & Gamble says that Intrinsa, a twice-weekly patch, delivers testosterone 300µg every 24 hours, achieving premenopausal serum testosterone levels. Clinical trials showed that Intrinsa reduced distress in 65-68 per cent and increased satisfying sexual activity in 51-74 per cent of women. A month's treatment (eight patches) costs £28.00. Fish oil for secondary ,not primary ,prevention of CHD Supplementing statin therapy with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) reduces the risk of major coronary events in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) ,but not in patients with no history of CHD Lancet 2007;369:1090-8). The five-year study in 18 645 patients with total cholesterol levels of 6.5mmol per litre or greater found that the incidence of sudden cardiac death, fatal and nonfatal myocardial infarction in CHD patients treated with EPA plus a statin was 8.7 per cent compared with 10.7 per cent with a statin alone (relative risk reduction 19 per cent). A similar relative risk reduction in patients with no CHD was not statistically significant. There was no difference in mortality between the groups but EPA did reduce unstable angina and nonfatal coronary events. Department pilots information prescriptions The Department of Health has announced 20 sites to pilot information prescriptions prior to a nationwide roll-out in 2008. The prescriptions will guide people with long-term conditions such as diabetes and cancer to sources of support and information about their condition. The Department hopes the project will increase patients' understanding of their discussions with health professionals, empower them to locate the information they need, and provide long-term support. NPSA guidelines for safer prescribing The National Patient Safety Agency (www.npsa.nhs.uk) has published five guidelines to improve medication safety in the NHS. Targeting ,high-risk issues', the guidance covers anticoagulant prescribing, liquid medicines for oral or enteral administration, injectable medicines, epidural injections and infusions, and paediatric intravenous infusions. The implementation of each guide is supported by additional tools and resources. Better adherence not matched to outcomes A systematic review has found that interventions can increase adherence to prescribed medication but there is no evidence that clinical outcomes also improve (Arch Intern Med 2007;167:540-9). The review of 37 trials identified 20 reporting increased adherence. The most effective interventions were behavioural changes to reduce dose demands and those involving monitoring and feedback. Improvements in clinical outcomes were variable and did not correspond to changes in adherence. Antidepressant plus mood stabiliser no better US investigators have found that combining a mood stabiliser with an antidepressant is no more effective than a mood stabiliser alone in preventing mood changes (N Engl J Med 2007; published online 28 March, doi.10.1056/NEJMoa064135). The study found durable recovery occurred in 23.5 per cent of patients treated with a mood stabiliser and adjunctive antidepressant therapy for six months compared with 27.3 per cent of those taking a mood stabiliser plus placebo. [source]

Effects of stress and social support on postpartum health of Chinese mothers in the United States,

RESEARCH IN NURSING & HEALTH, Issue 6 2009
Ching-Yu Cheng
Abstract Postpartum maternal well being across cultures has received limited research attention. We examined relationships among stress, social support, and health in 152 Chinese mothers <1 year postpartum in the United States. These mothers did not perceive high levels of stress, although they did not receive as much support as they indicated they needed; 23.7% of mothers scored high for depressive symptoms. About half of the mothers experienced interrupted sleep, decrease in memory, and lack of sexual desire. All health measures were inter-correlated. Social support moderated the effects of stress on depressive symptoms. Culturally relevant care that is perceived as supportive may promote postpartum maternal health. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 32:582,591, 2009 [source]

The Clothes Make the Man: Cross-Dressing, Gender Performance, and Female Desire in Johann Elias Schlegel's Der Triumph der guten Frauen

THE GERMAN QUARTERLY, Issue 3 2008
Edward T. Potter
Schlegel's 1748 comedy takes the potentially liberating historical practice of female cross-dressing and restructures it by using it to promote a sentimental conception of marriage based on love, mutual compatibility, and free partner choice and by emptying this contemporary cultural phenomenon of any potentially liberating features, thereby defusing non-normative gender performance. Schlegel's text highlights culturally constructed aspects of gender by placing gender performance at the play's core. By staging a successful performance of male gender, the female character Hilaria reintegrates two wayward husbands into the sentimental marriage. Via Hilaria's disguise, the text explores: how the control of information establishes power relationships; how cross-dressing is used to reinscribe traditional gender roles; how mutual respect and friendship are promoted as a strong basis for marriage; and finally, how sexual desire is construed as a purely male phenomenon, thereby ironizing the possibility of female desire in general and female same-sex desire in particular [source]

Sexual Dysfunction in an Internet Sample of U.S. Men Who Have Sex with Men

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 9 2010
Sabina Hirshfield PhD
ABSTRACT Introduction., Relatively little is known about sexual dysfunction (SD) in men who have sex with men (MSM). Aim., In order to better understand SD symptoms in MSM, we assessed self-reported SD symptoms, individually and by latent class analysis (LCA). Methods., In 2004,2005 an Internet sample of U.S. MSM was recruited from gay-oriented sexual networking, chat and news websites. The analytic sample comprised 7,001 men aged 18 or older who reported lifetime male sex partners and oral or anal sex with a male partner in their most recent encounter within the past year. Main Outcome Measures., Seven questions on SD symptoms that occurred during the past 12 months inquired about low sexual desire, erection problems, inability to achieve an orgasm, performance anxiety, premature ejaculation, pain during sex, and sex not being pleasurable. Results., Self-reported symptoms of SD were high. Overall, 79% of men reported one or more SD symptoms in the past year, with low sexual desire, erection problems, and performance anxiety being the most prevalent. Four distinct underlying patterns of sexual functioning were identified by LCA: no/low SD, erection problems/performance anxiety, low desire/pleasure, and high SD/sexual pain. High SD/sexual pain was distinguished from the other patterns by club drug use and use of prescription and non-prescription erectile dysfunction medication before sex in the past year. Additionally, men associated with the high SD/sexual pain group were younger, single, more likely to have poor mental and physical health, and more likely to have been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection in the past year compared to men in the no/low SD group. Conclusions., LCA enabled us to identify underlying patterns of sexual functioning among this sample of MSM recruited online. Future research should investigate these distinct subgroups with SD symptoms in order to develop tailored treatments and counseling for SD. Hirshfield S, Chiasson MA, Wagmiller RL, Remien RH, Humberstone M, Scheinmann R, and Grov C. Sexual dysfunction in an internet sample of U.S. men who have sex with men. J Sex Med 2010;7:3104,3114. [source]

Reduced Labial Temperature in Response to Sexual Films with Distractors among Women with Lower Sexual Desire

The Relevance of Sexual Responsiveness to Sexual Function in Male Stroke Patients

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 12 2009
Annelien Duits PhD
ABSTRACT Introduction., Stroke may have negative consequences for the patients' quality of life, including sexual function. Whereas physical impairment will influence sexual positions and movement during sex, depression and medication may reduce sexual desire. So far, data on sexual dysfunction after stroke are scant. Although some support for physical as well as psychological explanations has been shown, further research to find the remedies for those patients with sexual problems after stroke is needed. The focus of the present study is on the identification of relevant psychological factors. Aim., The aim of this study was to study the impact of anxiety, depression, and sexual responsiveness on sexual function in male stroke patients. Methods., Nineteen male stroke patients completed a number of self-report measures to assess psychological and sexual factors. Main Outcome Measures., Sexual function based on the International Index of Erectile Function, anxiety and depression based on the Symptom Checklist-90, and sexual responsiveness based on the Sexual Inhibition/Sexual Excitation Scale, including propensities for sexual excitation and sexual inhibition as a result of both performance failure and performance consequences, were assessed. Results., Sexual excitation was positively related to sexual desire, whereas inhibition because of the threat of performance failure was negatively related to orgasmic function and sexual desire (P < 0.01). Patients with high levels of inhibition because of threat of performance failure were more likely to report low scores on overall sexual function than those with low levels. Conclusions., Although the statistical power is rather low, the results show the relevance of sexual responsiveness to sexual function in male stroke patients. The present study can be considered as a first step toward building a theoretical framework of relevant psychological and physical factors, which is needed to develop adequate interventions for those patients with sexual problems after stroke. Duits A, van Oirschot N, van Oostenbrugge RJ, and van Lankveld J. The relevance of sexual responsiveness to sexual function in male stroke patients. J Sex Med 2009;6:3320,3326. [source]

Internet-Based Brief Sex Therapy for Heterosexual Men with Sexual Dysfunctions: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 8 2009
Jacques J.D.M. Van Lankveld PhD
ABSTRACT Introduction., Internet-based sex therapy for men with erectile dysfunction has been advocated as an easily accessible and cost-effective treatment. Aim., To test whether Internet-based sex therapy is superior to waiting list. Methods., Internet-based therapy was administered to heterosexual men with erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation, without face-to-face contact, in a waiting-list controlled design, with pre-, post-, and follow-up measurements at 3 and 6 months posttreatment. Treatment was based on the sensate-focus model of Masters and Johnson, and supplemented with cognitive restructuring techniques. Main Outcome Measures., Self-reported improvement of sexual functioning, erectile functioning (men with ED), premature ejaculation (men with PE), sexual desire, overall sexual satisfaction, and sexual self-confidence. Results., Ninety-eight men participated (58 ED, 40 PE). Sexual functioning was much or somewhat improved in 40 participants (48%). In participants with ED, a near significant effect of treatment was found (P = 0.065), with higher levels of sexual desire (P < 0.05) and sexual self-confidence (P = 0.05) in treated men, in addition to improved erectile functioning (P = 0.01) and overall sexual satisfaction (P < 0.001) in both groups. In participants with PE, treatment was not superior to waiting list. In participants with ED, erectile functioning (P < 0.05) and overall sexual satisfaction (P = 0.002) improved significantly. In participants with PE, latency to ejaculation (P < 0.001), sexual desire (P < 0.05), and overall sexual satisfaction (P < 0.05) improved significantly from baseline to posttreatment, with no further changes at both follow-ups. Sexual self-confidence in men with PE remained unchanged during treatment until follow-up at 3 months posttreatment, and then was found to be improved at 6-months follow-up (P < 0.05). Conclusion., Internet-based sex therapy for male erectile dysfunction was efficacious for male erectile disorder. For men with premature ejaculation, however, treatment was not superior to waiting list. van Lankveld JJDM, Leusink P, van Diest S, Gijs L, and Slob AK. Internet-based brief sex therapy for heterosexual men with sexual dysfunctions: A randomized controlled pilot trial. J Sex Med 2009;6:2224,2236. [source]

The Influence of Testosterone Combined with a PDE5-inhibitor on Cognitive, Affective, and Physiological Sexual Functioning in Women Suffering from Sexual Dysfunction

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 3 2009
Flip Van Der Made MD
ABSTRACT Introduction., Women with female sexual dysfunction have a reduced sensitivity to sexual stimuli. Activation of central mechanisms may open a window for phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5) to be effective; as a consequence, the combination of testosterone and a PDE5 inhibitor will restore sexual function. Aim., To demonstrate that the combination of testosterone and vardenafil will increase the sensitivity for sexual stimuli and will improve the desire and arousal components of the sexual response. Methods., In a double-blind randomly assigned placebo-controlled crossover design, 28 women with desire and/or arousal disorder underwent four different drug treatments on four separate experimental days. A masked version of the emotional Stroop task with sexual and nonsexual words was used to measure sensitivity for sexual content. Neutral and erotic film fragments were used to determine genital,physiological and subjective reactions. Main Outcome Measures., A masked version of the emotional Stroop task, vaginal pulse amplitude. For subjective measurement, responses were collected continuously with a lever and two self-report measures were used. Results., In two subgroups, which were differentiated on the basis of their initial preconscious attentional bias for sexual cues, a different sexual response profile was found. In an initially low-attention group, preconscious attentional bias for sexual cues increased under the testosterone condition. In these women, the combination of testosterone and vardenafil caused an improvement in genital response and subjective indices of sexual functioning. In the group that had initially a high attention for sexual cues, preconscious attentional bias for sexual cues decreased under the condition of testosterone. In these women, the combination of testosterone and vardenafil had no effect on any of the indices of their sexual functioning. Conclusion., In women suffering from low sexual desire,associated with low attention for sexual cues,the combination of testosterone and vardenafil may be a promising new treatment. van der Made F, Bloemers J, Yassem WE, Kleiverda G, Everaerd W, van Ham D, Olivier B, Koppeschaar H, and Tuiten A. The influence of testosterone combined with a PDE5-inhibitor on cognitive, affective, and physiological sexual functioning in women suffering from sexual dysfunction. J Sex Med 2009;6:777,790. [source]

Psychobiological Correlates of Extramarital Affairs and Differences between Stable and Occasional Infidelity among Men with Sexual Dysfunctions

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 3 2009
Alessandra D. Fisher MD
ABSTRACT Introduction., The relationship between extramarital affairs and male sexual dysfunctions (SDs) has not been completely clarified. Aim., The aim of the present study is to describe how the reported presence of extramarital affairs vs. no report differentiates men attending medical care for SDs. Methods., A nonselected series of 2,592 heterosexual (mean age 55 ± 12.5 years) male patients with SD was studied with Structured Interview on Erectile Dysfunction (SIEDY). Furthermore, a complete physical examination and a series of biochemical, hormonal, and penile vascular evaluations were performed. Main Outcome Measures., Several hormonal, biochemical, and instrumental parameters were investigated along with items derived from SIEDY. Results., Infidelity is associated with relational problems within the primary couple, particularly in those with a stable secondary relationship. Furthermore, a higher androgenization is present in men with infidelity. Patients with SD reporting extramarital affairs had higher stress at work, a longer primary relationship span, and higher risk of conflicts within the primal couple and within the family. In addition, infidel men showed a higher risk of partner's illness and partner's hypoactive sexual desire. Among organic factors, a lower prevalence of hypogonadism was observed in infidel men. These subjects showed a better sexual function than the rest of the sample. In addition, they reported a higher intercourse frequency in the previous 3 months (considering both the primary and secondary relationship), a lower prevalence of hypoactive sexual desire (HSD), and a lower feeling of discomfort or guilt about autoerotism. Finally, when SIEDY scales were considered, SIEDY Scale 2 (relational domain) and Scale 3 (intrapsychic domain) scores were significantly higher in infidel subjects when compared with the rest of the sample. Conclusions., Infidelity is associated with relational problems within the primary couple, particularly in those with a stable secondary relationship. Furthermore, a higher androgenization is present in men who commit infidelity. Fisher AD, Corona G, Bandini E, Mannucci E, Lotti F, Boddi V, Forti G, and Maggi M. Psychobiological correlates of extramarital affairs and differences between stable and occasional infidelity among men with sexual dysfunctions. J Sex Med 2009;6:866,875. [source]

Effect of Testosterone on Potassium Channel Opening in Human Corporal Smooth Muscle Cells

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 4 2008
Deok Hyun Han MD
ABSTRACT Introduction., In humans, the role of testosterone in sexual functions, including sexual desire, nocturnal penile erections, and ejaculatory volume, has been relatively well established. However, the effects of testosterone on intrapenile structure in humans remains controversial. Aim., We assessed the direct effects of testosterone on potassium channels in human corporal smooth muscle cells, in an effort to understand the mechanisms inherent to the testosterone-induced relaxation of corporal smooth muscle cells at the cellular and molecular levels. Methods., We conducted electrophysiologic studies using cultured human corporal smooth muscle cells. We evaluated the effects of testosterone on potassium channels,BKCa and KATP channels,by determining the whole-cell currents and single-channel activities. For the electrophysiologic recordings, whole-cell and cell-attached configuration patch-clamp techniques were utilized. Main Outcome Measures., Changes in whole-cell currents and channel activities of BKCa and KATP channels by testosterone. Results., Testosterone (200 nM) significantly increased the single-channel activity of calcium-activated potassium (BKCa) channels and whole-cell K+ currents by 443.4 ± 83.4% (at +60 mV; N = 11, P < 0.05), and this effect was abolished by tetraethylammonium (TEA) (1 mM), a BKCa channel blocker. The whole-cell inward K+ currents of the KATP channels were also increased by 226.5 ± 49.3% (at ,100 mV; N = 7, P < 0.05). In the presence of a combination of vardenafil (10 nM) and testosterone (200 nM), the BKCa channel was activated to a significantly higher degree than was induced by testosterone alone. Conclusions., The results of patch-clamp studies provided direct molecular evidence that testosterone stimulates the activity of BKCa channels and KATP channels. An understanding of the signaling mechanisms that couple testosterone receptor activation to potassium channel stimulation will provide us with an insight into the cellular processes underlying the vasorelaxant effects of testosterone. Han DH, Chae MR, Jung JH, So I, Park JK, and Lee SW. Effect of testosterone on potassium channel opening in human corporal smooth muscle cells. J Sex Med 2008;5:822,832. [source]

ORIGINAL RESEARCH,SEXUAL PAIN DISORDERS: The Association between Sexual Function, Pain, and Psychological Adaptation of Men Diagnosed with Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome Type III

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 3 2008
Sylvie Aubin PhD
ABSTRACT Introduction., Prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is known to have a negative impact on quality of life, especially on intimate relationships and sexual function. Information is, however, missing on the contribution of demographic and psychological variables to sexual variables. Aim., We compared the sexual function of men with CPPS to men without pain, and examined the relationship between the sexual, demographic, and psychological measures in men with CPPS. Main Outcome Measures., Self-report questionnaires assessing demographic, pain, sexual function, and psychological adaptation. Methods., The sample consisted of 72 men diagnosed with CPPS and 98 men without any pain condition. Self-report questionnaires measuring demographic, pain, and sexual function were completed once at the eligibility visit by all subjects. CPPS subjects completed additional questionnaires related to pain and psychological adaptation. Results., CPPS subjects differed from controls by reporting significantly less frequent sexual desire or thoughts, less frequent sexual activities, less arousal/erectile function, less orgasm function, and higher frequencies of genital pain during/after intercourse. When we adjusted for age and marital status, the difference between groups remained for thoughts/desire, frequency of sexual activity, and arousal/erectile function. Analysis of factors related to sexual function in CPPS subjects included pain status and psychological adaptation. Results showed that frequency of sexual activity decreased with increasing depression, whereas arousal/erectile function decreased with increasing pain symptoms and stress appraisal. Orgasm function decreased with increasing depression and pleasure/satisfaction decreased with increasing pain symptoms, stress appraisal, and decreasing belief of a relationship between emotions and pain. Conclusions., We found a differential sexual profile for men with CPPS when compared to men without pain. The results suggest that interventions addressing psychological factors affecting sexual responses should be further studied in prospective clinical trials as one possible way to improve sexual function and satisfaction in men with CPPS. Aubin S, Berger RE, Herman JR, and Ciol MA. The association between sexual function, pain, and psychological adaptation of men diagnosed with chronic pelvic pain syndrome type III. J Sex Med 2008;5:657,667. [source]

ORIGINAL RESEARCH,WOMEN'S SEXUAL HEALTH: Comparison of the Effects of Hormone Therapy Regimens, Oral and Vaginal Estradiol, Estradiol + Drospirenone and Tibolone, on Sexual Function in Healthy Postmenopausal Women

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 1 2008
Filiz Çayan MD
ABSTRACT Introduction., Sexual dysfunction is more prevalent in postmenopausal women. Aims., To prospectively evaluate and compare the effects of hormone therapy (HT) regimens, oral and vaginal estradiol, estradiol + drospirenone and tibolone, on sexual function in healthy postmenopausal women. Methods., The study included 169 consecutive healthy postmenopausal women, and the women were divided into two groups: 111 women received HT, and 58 women received no treatment and served as a control group. As an HT, 23 women with surgically induced menopause received oral 17-, estradiol. The rest of the women with natural menopause were prospectively randomized: 22 received oral 17-, estradiol + drospirenone daily, 42 received oral tibolone, and 24 received vaginal 17-, estradiol. Sexual function was evaluated with a detailed 19-item questionnaire, the female sexual function index, including sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. Main Outcome Measures., The differences in sexual function were compared before and 6 months after the treatment in all women. Results., Total sexual function score increased from 19.81 ± 7.15 to 22.9 ± 6.44 in the HT group and decreased from 21.6 ± 8.69 to 17.6 ± 5.7 in the control group, revealing a significant difference from baseline to post-treatment between the two groups (P = 0.000). The highest improvement in total score and arousal was achieved with the oral 17-, estradiol (P = 0.000 and P = 0.000, respectively). The highest improvement in lubrication was achieved with the oral and vaginal 17-, estradiol groups (P = 0.000). The highest improvement in orgasm was achieved with the tibolone group (P = 0.000). The highest improvement in pain was achieved with the oral and vaginal 17-, estradiol groups (P = 0.000). Conclusions., HT provided significant improvement in sexual function compared to women receiving no treatment, and therefore, HT regimens should be suggested for improvement in sexual functioning of postmenopausal women. Çayan F, Dilek U, Pata Ö, and Dilek S. Comparison of the effects of hormone therapy regimens, oral and vaginal estradiol, estradiol + drospirenone and tibolone, on sexual function in healthy postmenopausal women. J Sex Med 2008;5:132,138. [source]

Effect of Hyperprolactinemia in Male Patients Consulting for Sexual Dysfunction

THE JOURNAL OF SEXUAL MEDICINE, Issue 5 2007
Giovanni Corona MD
ABSTRACT Introduction., The physiological role of prolactin (PRL) in male sexual function has not been completely clarified. Aim., The aim of this study is the assessment of clinical features and of conditions associated with hyperprolactinemia in male patients consulting for sexual dysfunction. Methods., A consecutive series of 2,146 (mean age 52.2 ± 12.8 years) male patients with sexual dysfunction was studied. Main Outcome Measures., Several hormonal and biochemical parameters were studied along with validated structured interviews (ANDROTEST and the Structured Interview on Erectile Dysfunction [SIEDY]). Mild hyperprolactinemia (MHPRL; PRL levels of 420,735 mU/L or 20,35 ng/mL) and severe hyperprolactinemia (SHPRL, PRL levels >735 mU/L, 35 ng/mL) were considered. Results., MHPRL and SHPRL were found in 69 (3.3%) and in 32 (1.5%) patients, respectively. Mean age and the prevalence of gynecomastia were similar in the two groups and in subjects with normal prolactin values. MHPRL was not confirmed in almost one-half of the patients after repetitive venous sampling. Hyperprolactinemia was associated with the current use of antidepressants, antipsychotic drugs, and benzamides. SHPRL was also associated with hypoactive sexual desire (HSD), elevated thyrotropin (TSH), and hypogonadism. The association between HSD and SHPRL was confirmed after adjustment for testosterone and TSH levels, and use of psychotropic drugs (hazard ratio [HR] = 8.60[3.85,19.23]; P < 0.0001). In a 6-month follow-up of patients with SHPRL, testosterone levels and sexual desire were significantly improved by the treatment. Conclusions., Our data indicate that SHPRL, but not MHPRL, is a relevant determinant of HSD. Gynecomastia does not help in recognizing hyperprolactinemic subjects, while the use of psychotropic medications and HSD are possible markers of disease. In the case of MHPRL, repetitive venous sampling is strongly encouraged. Corona G, Mannucci E, Fisher AD, Lotti F, Ricca V, Balercia G, Petrone L, Forti G, and Maggi M. Effect of hyperprolactinemia in male patients consulting for sexual dysfunction. J Sex Med 2007;4:1485,1493. [source]