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Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland) Jan 2024Masturbation is a healthy sexual behavior associated with different sexual functioning dimensions, which highlights sexual satisfaction as an important manifestation of... (Review)
Review
Masturbation is a healthy sexual behavior associated with different sexual functioning dimensions, which highlights sexual satisfaction as an important manifestation of sexual wellbeing. This review aims to systematically examine studies that have associated masturbation with sexual satisfaction, both in individuals with and without a partner. Following the PRISMA statement, searches were made in the APA PsycInfo, Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The search yielded 851 records, and twenty-two articles that examined the relation between solitary masturbation and sexual satisfaction were selected. In men, a negative relation between masturbation and sexual satisfaction was observed in 71.4% of the studies, 21.4% found no such relation, and 7.2% observed a positive association. In women, 40% reported no relation, 33.3% a negative relation, and 26.7% a positive one. The negative association between solitary masturbation and sexual satisfaction is consistent with the previously proposed compensatory role of masturbation, especially for men. In women, compared to men, the complementary role of masturbation in relation to sexual relationships is observed to a greater extent and is associated more closely with sexual health. The importance of including different parameters beyond the masturbation frequency in future studies to explore its relation with sexual satisfaction is emphasized. This systematic review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023416688).
PubMed: 38255122
DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12020235 -
Proceedings. Biological Sciences Jun 2023Masturbation occurs throughout the animal kingdom. At first glance, however, the fitness benefits of this self-directed behaviour are unclear. Regardless, several...
Masturbation occurs throughout the animal kingdom. At first glance, however, the fitness benefits of this self-directed behaviour are unclear. Regardless, several drivers have been proposed. Non-functional hypotheses posit that masturbation is either a pathology, or a byproduct of high underlying sexual arousal, whereas functional hypotheses argue an adaptive benefit. The Postcopulatory Selection Hypothesis states that masturbation aids the chances of fertilization, while the Pathogen Avoidance Hypothesis states that masturbation helps reduce host infection by flushing pathogens from the genital tract. Here, we present comprehensive new data documenting masturbation across the primate order and use these, in conjunction with phylogenetic comparative methods, to reconstruct the evolutionary pathways and correlates of masturbation. We find that masturbation is an ancient trait within the primate order, becoming a more common aspect of the haplorrhine behavioural repertoire after the split from tarsiers. Our analyses provide support for both the Postcopulatory Selection and Pathogen Avoidance Hypotheses in male primates, suggesting that masturbation may be an adaptive trait, functioning at a macroevolutionary scale.
Topics: Animals; Male; Masturbation; Phylogeny; Primates
PubMed: 37282530
DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.0061 -
Sexual Medicine Dec 2023Female Reddit users frequently discussed potential causes of orgasm difficulties and its implications on mental health and relationships.
BACKGROUND
Female Reddit users frequently discussed potential causes of orgasm difficulties and its implications on mental health and relationships.
AIM
This study aimed to evaluate the experiences of women discussing orgasms on the Internet site Reddit. We sought to qualitatively analyze the topics that arose in users' discussions to better understand the potential causes of orgasm difficulties and its implications on quality of life.
METHODS
Posts on the subreddit r/TwoXChromosomes containing the keywords "orgasm" and "climax" were included in the dataset. Posts and their associated comments were qualitatively analyzed using the grounded theory approach. Two independent researchers coded each thread to identify dominant themes and emergent concepts.
OUTCOMES
The most frequently coded primary topics included: (1) orgasm (32.2% [n = 337]), (2) psychological (17.8% [n = 186]), (3) relationships (15.4% [n = 161]), and (4) treatment (10.7% [n = 112]).
RESULTS
Qualitative analysis of 107 threads and approximately 6300 comments resulted in 5 major categories: psychological aspect of orgasms, difficulty orgasming with partners, partners' responses to orgasmic dysfunction, types of orgasms, and treatments for orgasmic dysfunction. Preliminary themes included (1) the presence of an emotional component or history of trauma related to orgasmic difficulty, (2) difficulty orgasming with a partner regardless of ability to orgasm during masturbation and a variety of stimulation required to orgasm, (3) mixed partner responses to orgasmic dysfunction, (4) the definition of a normal orgasm, and (5) self-motivated treatment for orgasmic dysfunction, including clitoral stimulation devices and masturbation techniques. Notably, few posters discussed their orgasmic dysfunction with healthcare providers.
CLINICAL TRANSLATION
The study reveals insights into the possible causes, psychosocial implications, and treatment of orgasm difficulties from a patient perspective, and can guide future research on female orgasms in a more precise, patient-oriented direction.
STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS
The anonymous nature of the forum allowed for insight into sensitive topics related to female orgasms and sexual trauma. Limitations include the demographic distribution of Reddit users, which was primarily younger women in their 20s and 30s, which restricts generalizability.
CONCLUSION
Reddit provides a medium for individuals with orgasm difficulties to discuss their experiences. Posts addressed users' inability to orgasm, their mental health and relationships, the stimulation required for orgasm, and treatments for orgasmic dysfunction. Interestingly, very few posts discussed healthcare, potentially suggesting that women do not classify their orgasmic dysfunction as a health issue.
PubMed: 38053613
DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfad061 -
Psychiatria Polska Oct 2023We present a case of a 32-years-old female patient diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia for many years who has developed neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) as a... (Review)
Review
We present a case of a 32-years-old female patient diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia for many years who has developed neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) as a result of long-acting antipsychotic's injection. Since the initial ineffectiveness of benzodiazepines, the course of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been carried out. In spite of the initial promising response to ECT 3 weeks after the admission her somatic and mental state deteriorated greatly, that was hardly explicable solely by the potential loss of effectiveness of ECT or laboratory tests. Diagnostics extended with imaging tests and gynecological examination revealed the connective tissue-covered cap of a popular multivitamin supplement in patient's vagina. During the following deepened interview, she admitted that in fact 6 months ago a piece had gotten stuck while masturbating. However due to the sense of shame and subjective lack of disturbing symptoms she had left it unsaid. One month after the evacuation of the foreign body she has been discharged from the hospital remaining the full remission. The presented case shows that inflammation in the body can complicate catatonia and NMS, causing a non-specific course and difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. In some patients, the inflammatory process may be caused by a foreign body located in various natural orifices in the body. It appears significant in the group of psychiatric patients. Once again it highlights the tremendous role of meticulously conducted interview including the patient's autoerotic life.
Topics: Humans; Female; Adult; Masturbation; Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome; Benzodiazepines; Electroconvulsive Therapy; Foreign Bodies; Antipsychotic Agents; Catatonia
PubMed: 36542768
DOI: 10.12740/PP/OnlineFirst/138338 -
International Journal of Sexual Health... 2023We explored mutual masturbation among women and men and investigated associations with sexual satisfaction and sexual self-esteem.
OBJECTIVES
We explored mutual masturbation among women and men and investigated associations with sexual satisfaction and sexual self-esteem.
METHODS
117 women and 151 men (M = 29.7 years), mostly heterosexual, all in current relationships, completed an online survey covering experiences of solo and partnered sexual activities, feelings about mutual masturbation, sexual self-esteem, and sexual satisfaction.
RESULTS
Mutual masturbation was common among both genders. Men reported significantly higher positive feelings about mutual masturbation than women. Recent mutual masturbation was positively associated with sexual satisfaction but not with sexual self-esteem.
CONCLUSIONS
These findings have implications for sex and couple therapy and research.
PubMed: 38596452
DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2023.2237950 -
Psychiatrike = Psychiatriki Jul 2023Humans, as social beings, rely on interaction in order to survive and "flourish". By nature, they are "weak" and when in solitary, their freedom is jeopardized....
Humans, as social beings, rely on interaction in order to survive and "flourish". By nature, they are "weak" and when in solitary, their freedom is jeopardized. Connecting with others, intimacy, physical contact, and the sense of belonging are core needs, and once recognized as such, they ultimately serve one's freedom. In this context, social interaction serves as a fundamental factor for survival. The creation of bonds improves one's position in the evolutionary process, and paves the way towards the ultimate "goal" of existence. The COVID-19 pandemic and the measures to control its spread have disrupted every aspect of human activity. Social, academic, cultural, business, and economic activities have been drastically modified.1 The conscious experience of the threat of life has been a ubiquitous "dramatic reminder of human vulnerability". The environment became unintelligible, death was "present" at all times. People tried to find a new meaning of life and discover a new sense of self-worth. The triggered vulnerability, the isolation from friends and relatives that to date validated one's self-esteem, the unprecedented obstacles with respect to career goals, and unexpected job losses affected the global view of things.1 The restrictive measures and the resulting urgent vaccination created "dystopian" conditions, under which deriving pleasure became a luxury. Scientific data have shown that social distancing has led to high levels of psychological distress. Primary research conducted during the social restrictions as well as subsequent meta-analytical studies have revealed increased irritability, emotional instability, and ultimately an increase in emotional and anxiety disorders' prevalence.2 Undoubtedly, mental and sexual health share a strong and bidirectional relationship.3 International health organizations emphasize the positive impact of a healthy sexual life on psychological well-being. Sexual well-being can serve - along with other factors - as a protective measure against the development of psychopathology, while stable sexual activity acts as a safeguard for well-being in general. The negative relationship between psychological symptoms and sexual gratification has been repeatedly documented by research, highlighting the impact of anxiety on sexual desire, arousal, and overall satisfaction with sexual life.4 Given this relationship and the increased emotional vulnerability during the pandemic, one might wonder how this reciprocal path has been affected. Physical intimacy, one of the basic expressions of the connection between partners, could not remain unaffected. During the first year of the pandemic and the restrictive measures, it became difficult for partners to meet. Due to the measures and discouragement of gatherings, a strong fear of infection gradually developed and avoidance behaviors emerged. In some countries, there were recommendations for physical-sexual interactions' limitation, and use of masks in intimate situations.5 The end result of these circumstances was that one in three individuals demonstrated such fear that they completely avoided engaging in sexual contact with the person they desired, even in cases they cohabited.6 The anxiety and reduced quality of life seemed to affect sexual function, especially aspects related to sexual desire and arousal. The fear and anxiety caused by the constant threat to life deprived individuals of the ability to derive satisfaction from intimate relationships, guiding sexual expression towards a safer "self-centered" orientation. As a result, self-gratification through masturbation increased for both single individuals as well as for stable, cohabiting partners.7 On the other hand, the newly formed living conditions served as a "vehicle' in an attempt to search for new paths towards pleasure. People, as in every past crisis, needed to "reinvent" themselves in order to adapt. Given that every sexual contact is a multi-sensory experience as well as a means of psychological discharge, they searched for or even created new paths that led to sexual release. The concept of "virtual sexuality" emerged even more strongly than it did before the pandemic. The pre-existing use of digital sexual content, which priorly simply facilitated individual sexual practices, took another form. The use of interactive technologies allowed people to create and share - in most cases for the first time - their personal erotic content.8 The internet emerged as an effective substitute for the discharge of sexual desire for people not in a stable romantic relationship, while for those with a stable partner in some cases facilitated their relationships, but for most of them prolonged behaviors of fear and avoidance of intimacy. The human need for connection, love, flirting, and sexual expression cannot be eliminated. The questions that arise whether the changes that have occurred are permanent, whether the need for real-life, physical contact has decreased, and whether the ways through which people connect with others have been permanently modified. It is possible that sexual intimacy is now conceptualized and experienced as something different, and perhaps the pandemic is a causal factor and a strong catalyst for a predetermined change of course with respect to close relationships. In any case, the clinical significance of the dynamic interaction between sexual factors and psychological well-being must be understood in depth. As mental health professionals, we must take into account the altered or new aspects of sexual expression, and with scientific rigor and respect for human nature, we should keep highlighting the unbreakable bond between sexuality and quality of life. We must recognize the timeless human need for intimacy and meaningful, stable connections, irrespective of threatening factors and uncertainty caused by conditions such as the recent pandemic.
Topics: Humans; Pandemics; Quality of Life; COVID-19; Sexual Behavior; Anxiety
PubMed: 37212801
DOI: 10.22365/jpsych.2023.009 -
Archives of Sexual Behavior Aug 2023The aim of with this brief report is to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic differentially impacted solitary sexual behaviors in those with and without clinically...
The aim of with this brief report is to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic differentially impacted solitary sexual behaviors in those with and without clinically significant compulsive sexual behavior (CSB). A total of 944 individuals in the United States completed an online cross-sectional survey in October 2020. Participants were asked to retrospectively report their frequency of masturbation and pornography use during the pandemic and prior to the pandemic. Participants also completed assessments of CSB, depression symptoms, and experiences of financial stress caused by the pandemic. Individuals who screened positive for clinically significant CSB reported statistically significant increases in masturbation and pornography use during the pandemic. Those who screened negative for CSB reported no significant increase in masturbation and a very small, statistically significant increase in pornography use. Those screening positive for CSB also reported significantly higher levels of depression symptoms but did not report increased likelihood of experiencing financial distress due to the pandemic. This suggests that increases in masturbation and pornography use reported by some, but not all, recent studies on sexual behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic may be driven by individuals with CSB. Future research on sexual behaviors during the pandemic should assess CSB to further clarify its relationship with sexual behavior changes.
Topics: Humans; United States; Pandemics; Cross-Sectional Studies; Retrospective Studies; COVID-19; Sexual Behavior; Compulsive Behavior
PubMed: 37095388
DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02599-2 -
Sexual Medicine Jun 2023Difficulty reaching orgasm/ejaculation during partnered sex, a primary characteristic of delayed or absent ejaculation, affects about 5% to 10% of men, but the reasons...
BACKGROUND
Difficulty reaching orgasm/ejaculation during partnered sex, a primary characteristic of delayed or absent ejaculation, affects about 5% to 10% of men, but the reasons underlying this problem are poorly understood.
AIM
The study sought to gain insight into possible etiologies of delayed ejaculation by assessing men's self-perceptions as to why they experience difficulty reaching orgasm.
METHODS
We drew 351 men reporting moderately severe to severe difficulty reaching orgasm during partnered sex from a sample of over 3000 respondents obtained through an online survey. As part of the 55-item survey, participants responded to 2 questions asking about their self-perceived reasons for having difficulty reaching orgasm and selected from a list of 14 options derived from the research literature, a series of men's focus groups, and expert opinion. The first question allowed respondents to select all the reasons that they felt contributed to the problem, the second to select only the most important reason. In addition, both men with and without comorbid erectile dysfunction were investigated and compared.
OUTCOMES
Hierarchical ordering of men's self-pereceived reasons for having difficulty reaching orgasm, including typal reasons established through principal component analysis.
RESULTS
The major reasons for difficulty were related to anxiety/distress and lack of adequate stimulation, with relationship and other factors endorsed with lower frequency. Further exploration using principal components analysis identified 5 typal reasons, in descending order of frequency: anxiety/distress (41%), inadequate stimulation (23%), low arousal (18%), medical issues (9%), and partner issues (8%). Few differences emerged between men with and without comorbid ED other than ones related to erectile problems, such as higher level of endorsement of medical issues. Typal reasons showed correlations, albeit mostly weak, with a number of covariates, including sexual relationship satisfaction, frequency of partnered sex, and frequency of masturbation.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS
Until supplemental medical treatments for delayed ejaculation are developed and approved, a number of men's purported reasons for difficult or absent ejaculation/orgasm-anxiety/distress, inadequate stimulation, low arousal, relationship issues-fall into areas that can be addressed in couples counseling by a trained sex therapist.
STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS
This study is unique in scope and robust in sample size. Drawbacks include those associated with online surveys, including possible bias in sample selection, limitation to Western-based samples, and the lack of differentiation between men with lifelong and acquired difficulty.
CONCLUSION
Men who have difficulty reaching ejaculation/orgasm identify putative reasons for their problem, ranging from anxiety/stress, inadequate stimulation, and low arousal to partner issues and medical reasons.
PubMed: 37408873
DOI: 10.1093/sexmed/qfad030 -
Urologie (Heidelberg, Germany) Dec 2023The Catholic world is shaped by papal directives and their interpretation over time by appointed theologians. There are strict prohibitions on key questions about life... (Review)
Review
The Catholic world is shaped by papal directives and their interpretation over time by appointed theologians. There are strict prohibitions on key questions about life and death, but in the context of the practical application of medical treatment techniques, the Vatican often remains vague. This may allow Catholic urologists to use a range of therapies that at first glance appear problematic. Furthermore, if physicians use a different form of expression than that stated in the doctrine of the faith, there is more space for medical practice.
Topics: Catholicism; Urology
PubMed: 37672048
DOI: 10.1007/s00120-023-02152-y -
Scientific Reports Dec 2023Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD) is a rare condition-mostly in women-where patients perceive prolonged genital arousal without any sexual desire or...
Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD) is a rare condition-mostly in women-where patients perceive prolonged genital arousal without any sexual desire or stimulation. Etiopathological considerations reach from peripheral to central issues over local disturbance of the pudendal nerve to neuropathy, psychosocial, and pharmacological theories. Since well controlled clinical studies about PGAD in conjunction with a mental and somatic health status are missing, this study is a detailed clinical investigation of PGAD patients compared to healthy controls. 26 women who fulfilled diagnostic criteria for PGAD were compared to 26 age matched healthy controls. Investigations included comparison of vegetative, gynaecological and sexual history, psychiatric features as well as a (neuro-)radiological, neurophysiological and gynaecological examination. Moreover, a detailed clinical characterisation of PGAD symptoms was performed. PGAD symptoms were mostly characterised as tingling or prickling and were permanently present. In over 80%, PGAD symptoms were located in the clitoris. Almost 70% reported radiations to other regions of the body. Most frequent trigger factors were tight clothes, mental stress, driving a car/bus/bicycle and sexual intercourse. Relieving factors were mainly distraction, relaxation, physical exercise, masturbation and swimming. In group comparisons, PGAD presented with significant higher rates of sexual dysfunctions, spontaneous orgasms, swelling of the genitals, extraordinary lubrication as well as higher rates in depression, agoraphobia, generalized anxiety disorder and lifetime panic disorder. Significantly more PGAD patients were diagnosed with restless legs symptoms. In contrast childhood traumatization, somatization disorder, suicidality, gynaecological as well as neurophysiological examination of the pudendal nerve were not different between the groups. MRI of the brain, pelvis and spinal cord was unsuspicious and incidental findings - including Tarlov cysts or pelvic venous congestion - were equally distributed among the groups. In summary, our study provides a careful characterization of women with PGAD highlighting a serious mental burden, most probably as a consequence of PGAD. With the current set of clinical investigations there was no evidence of a clear causal relationship to a specific clinical finding as it has been previously discussed. Future studies and additional techniques will have to further explore where and how in the peripheral or central nervous systems PGAD develops.
Topics: Female; Humans; Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological; Sexual Behavior; Genitalia; Arousal; Coitus; Pelvic Pain
PubMed: 38129493
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-48790-2