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Ahmed MA, Obaid ZM, Hashem O, Elrifai AW, Elsaie ML. Prevalence of new onset erectile dysfunction among Damietta governorate men after contracting COVID-19. Ir J Med Sci 2024; 193:1581-1587. [PMID: 38245885 PMCID: PMC11128385 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-024-03610-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several reports showed that sexual function was affected during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. AIMS The objective of the study was to demonstrate whether a realistic association exists between the COVID-19 pandemic and erectile dysfunction (ED) among a sampled Egyptian population in Damietta governorate. METHODS This cross-sectional study consisted of 330 adult males diagnosed with COVID-19 infection. They were categorized in three age groups (18-29, 30-39, and 40-50 years, respectively). COVID-19-confirmed cases were assessed by the Arabic version of the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF) scores. RESULTS The prevalence of ED according to the IIEF was 55.1%. The ED was categorized into mild ED which represents 25.8% of the patients, mild to moderate which represents 22.4% of the patients, moderate which represents 7% of the patients, and severe which represents 0% of the patients. We found a significant negative correlation between the age of the patients and the IIEF score. Also, we found an association between the severity of COVID-19 infection and the IIEF score. CONCLUSION An association of new-onset ED in men who suffered COVID-19 infection was established. This may be due to virus-induced endothelial cell dysfunction; however, an underlying mechanism and causation have not yet been clearly elucidated. While it appears that COVID-19 infection may be a risk factor for ED, additional research is needed to establish causality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa A Ahmed
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt
| | - Zakaria M Obaid
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt
| | - Osama Hashem
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Damietta Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt
| | - Atef W Elrifai
- Department of Pulmonology, Damietta, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Damietta, Egypt
| | - Mohamed L Elsaie
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt.
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Yekefallah L, Mohammadi SD, Namdar P, Moghadam SM, Yekefallah F, Mafi MH. The Sexual Function, Desire, and Satisfaction of Couples during the Outbreak of COVID-19 in Qazvin. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY RESEARCH 2023; 28:544-549. [PMID: 37869690 PMCID: PMC10588913 DOI: 10.4103/ijnmr.ijnmr_273_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the lives of the community. The resulting social constraints and the physical and psychological consequences are also expected to affect sexual health. The present study aims to determine the status of sexual function, desire, and satisfaction of couples during the outbreak of COVID-19. Materials and Methods This is a descriptive online cross-sectional study on 400 married individuals living in Qazvin, Iran, from October 15 to November 12, 2020. The multi-stage random cluster method is used for sampling. The following questionnaires have been used for data collection: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Rosen male sexual function, Larson's sexual satisfaction, and Hurlbert Index of Sexual Desire (HISD). The questionnaires were sent to participants through online messengers. The obtained data were analyzed by SPSS software (v25). Results The findings show that only 19.20% of study participants had sex three or more times a week. Most of the participating women (56.90%) had sexual dysfunction, while most men (64.30%) had proper sexual function. Also, the majority of participants had moderate sexual desire (46%) and high sexual satisfaction. The primary predictors of sexual dysfunction in men and women during the outbreak of COVID-19 were "employment in health centers" (B = -9.34, p = 0.007) and "spouse working in health centers" (B = -6.16, p = 0.007), respectively. Conclusions The psychological burdens of the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting measures, such as prevention protocols, affect couples' sexual relations. Therefore, interventions are necessary to improve the quality and health of the sexual life of couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leili Yekefallah
- Associate Professor of Nursing, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Saeide Dost Mohammadi
- MSc of Nursing, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Peyman Namdar
- Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Science, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Somaye Minaei Moghadam
- Instructor of Nursing, Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Mohamad Hossein Mafi
- Instructor of Nursing, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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Alimoradi Z, Bahrami N, Khodaparast S, Griffiths MD, Pakpour AH. Mediating role of psychological distress and domestic violence in the association of fear of COVID-19 with marital satisfaction and sexual quality of life among women of reproductive age: An Iranian cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e068916. [PMID: 36746547 PMCID: PMC9905787 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the mediating role of psychological distress and domestic violence in the association of fear of COVID-19 with marital satisfaction and sexual quality of life (QoL) among Iranian women of reproductive age. METHODS A cross-sectional study comprising 324 married women was conducted. Online convenience sampling was used to collect data. SPSS PROCESS macro was used for the mediation analysis. The direct and indirect effects of the fear of COVID-19 on sexual QoL and marital satisfaction were estimated comprising a 95% CI using 5000 bootstrap samples. Pairwise comparisons between the mediators were calculated by Hayes' macros. RESULTS A positive/negative or suspected history of COVID-19 infection had marginally significant relationship with marital satisfaction (p=0.049). The total effect of fear of COVID-19 on sexual QoL was significant (b=-1.31, SE=0.20, p<0.001). Fear of COVID-19 had no significant direct effect on sexual QoL (b=-0.22, SE=0.19, p=0.24) but it had an indirect effect on sexual QoL via mediation of psychological distress (b=-0.34, SE=0.09, 95% CI: -0.53 to -0.19) and domestic violence (b=-0.75, SE=0.18, 95% CI: -1.12 to -0.40). The total effect of fear of COVID-19 on marital satisfaction was significant (b=-1.91, SE=0.32, p<0.001). Fear of COVID-19 had no significant direct effect (b=0.20, SE=0.25, p=0.42) on marital satisfaction but it had an indirect effect on marital satisfaction via mediation of psychological distress (b=-0.59, SE=0.13, 95% CI: -0.86 to -0.36) and domestic violence (b=-1.51, SE=0.29, 95% CI: -2.08 to -0.92). CONCLUSION The fear of COVID-19 during the pandemic indirectly decreased women's marital satisfaction and sexual QoL via increased psychological distress and domestic violence. Consequently, in critical situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic, improving couples' psychological health and reducing domestic violence are likely to improve women's sexual QoL and marital satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Alimoradi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Nasim Bahrami
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Samaneh Khodaparast
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Mark D Griffiths
- Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Amir H Pakpour
- Department of Nursing,School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
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Economic expectations and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic: a one-year longitudinal evaluation on Italian university students. QUALITY & QUANTITY 2023; 57:59-76. [PMID: 35250100 PMCID: PMC8883755 DOI: 10.1007/s11135-022-01330-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has produced an extensive aggravation of people's anxiety level. Different policies aimed at fighting the spread of the virus could affect anxiety in various ways. We built an ad hoc web-based survey, administered to the student population of three Italian universities at the beginning of the pandemic and at one year's distance, to collect information on retrospective and current anxiety levels and the underlining reasons. The survey also included questions concerning sociodemographic, economic, labor, lifestyle, academic career, and on-line teaching features, which prevents students from identifying the main survey topic to be anxiety. This research aims at assessing the change in anxiety levels between the analyzed periods and the main determinants of such change, focusing on students' economic expectancies. Results from a Poisson regression model show that anxiety has increased compared to both the pre-pandemic level and the one quantified during the first lockdown. This increase is revealed to be mostly driven by economic and career-related uncertainties, rather than by job loss and proximity to COVID-19. Thus, policymakers should take action to provide certainties both in terms of economic prospects and reopening strategies, especially to avoid that the resulting increase in anxiety translates into an amplified suicide risk.
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Herbenick D, Fu TC, Patterson C. Sexual Repertoire, Duration of Partnered Sex, Sexual Pleasure, and Orgasm: Findings from a US Nationally Representative Survey of Adults. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2023; 49:369-390. [PMID: 36151751 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2022.2126417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In a confidential U.S. nationally representative survey of 2,525 adults (1300 women, 1225 men), we examined participants' event-level sexual behaviors, predictors of pleasure and orgasm, and perceived actual and ideal duration of sex, by gender and age. Event-level kissing, cuddling, vaginal intercourse, and oral sex were prevalent. Sexual choking was more prevalent among adults under 40. While women and men reported a similar actual duration of sex, men reported a longer ideal duration. Participants with same-sex partners reported a longer ideal duration than those with other-sex partners. Finally, findings show that gendered sexual inequities related to pleasure and orgasm persist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debby Herbenick
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- The Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Tsung-Chieh Fu
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- The Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Callie Patterson
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
- The Center for Sexual Health Promotion, Indiana University School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, USA
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Rezaeian A, Ahmadi Pishkuhi M, Oliveira Reis L, Aghamir SMK. Sexuality Transmitted Infection in the COVID-19 Pandemic and Non-Pandemic Time. Am J Mens Health 2022; 16:15579883221134900. [PMID: 36412243 PMCID: PMC9692181 DOI: 10.1177/15579883221134900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization recognized the SARS-CoV-2 infection as a pandemic. The pandemic itself in addition to its containment measures affects individuals' lifestyles and welfare including their sexual behaviors. Thus, we hypothesized that sexually transmitted infection (STI) incidence may be changed and so we evaluate urethritis incidence as the most common STI in men and some other related factors. Two cross-sectional surveys during the first 6 months of 2019 and 2020 were undertaken and data were collected from 11 urology offices located in different parts of the capital city. In total, 34,611 male participants were included in our study, and 191 (.55%) patients' clinical diagnoses were urethritis. The urethritis incidence significantly decreased from 149 of 17,950 (.83%) to 42 of 16,661 (.25%) individuals in the same period of the years 2019 and 2020, respectively (p-value < .001). There was a higher percentage of single (p-value = .049) and older (p-value < .001) urethritis patients in the first 6 months of the year 2020 compared with 2019. Our survey provided urethritis incidence, demographics, symptoms, and treatment characterization. As our results show, the proportion of urethritis patients in all populations admitted to urologist offices had dramatically decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic compared with prior. The indirect effects of the pandemic and its containment measures on people's sexual health should be noticed and an appropriate reaction and policy-making are recommended to manage issues properly in different aspects of sexual health.
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Affiliation(s)
- AhmadReza Rezaeian
- Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti
University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Urology Research Center, Tehran
University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahin Ahmadi Pishkuhi
- Urology Research Center, Tehran
University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Pars Advanced & Minimally Invasive
Medical Manners Research Center, Pars General Hospital, Iran University of Medical
Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leonardo Oliveira Reis
- UroScience and Department of Surgery
(Urology), School of Medical Sciences, University of Campinas, Unicamp, and
Pontifical Catholic University of Campinas (PUC-Campinas), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Seyed Mohammad Kazem Aghamir
- Urology Research Center, Tehran
University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Seyed Mohammad Kazem Aghamir, Urology
Research Center, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Hassan
Abad Sq., Imam Khomeini Ave., Tehran, Iran.
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Toldam NE, Graugaard C, Meyer R, Thomsen L, Dreier S, Jannini EA, Giraldi A. Sexual Health During COVID-19: A Scoping Review. Sex Med Rev 2022; 10:714-753. [PMID: 37051956 PMCID: PMC9242892 DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic impacted profoundly on the wellbeing and social interactions of the world population, and all dimensions of sexual health were potentially affected by globally implemented preventive measures. OBJECTIVES The scoping review aimed to compile existing research investigating possible effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on adult sexual health, that is, sexual behavior, functioning, and satisfaction. Further, studies on the interplay between mental health and sexual well-being during the pandemic were reviewed. METHODS The review was conducted in accordance with guidelines established by the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) Checklist. On October 11-12, 2021, PubMed, Embase, PsycInfo, Cinahl, Cochrane, Sociological Abstracts and Scopus were systematically searched for relevant peer-reviewed papers employing quantitative methodology. Additionally, unpublished ("grey") research studies on the subject were retrieved. The screening, data extraction, and analysis of evidence were conducted by 4 independent reviewers using an iterative approach. RESULTS Based on 107 studies included, the scoping review showed that the pandemic had had a wide impact on all dimensions of sexual health. Except for solo sex activities, mainly negative COVID-19 implications were identified, although findings were, in sum, characterized by complexity and unpredictability. Thus, sexual behavior, functioning, and satisfaction during the pandemic appeared to be mitigated by a broad range of sociodemographic and contextual factors. Finally, sexual health seemed deeply entwined with overall mental health. CONCLUSION The scoping review revealed a broad range of COVID-19-related effects on sexual health, including an overall decline in partnered sex and a concurrent increase in solo sex activities. It also emphasized a need for future research to shed light on possible long-term consequences of the pandemic in various population groups and on all aspects of sexual health. Toldam NE, Graugaard C, Meyer R, et al. Sexual Health During COVID-19: A Scoping Review. Sex Med Rev 2022;10:714-753.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nana Ernst Toldam
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Denmark,Sexological Clinic, Mental Health Center, Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christian Graugaard
- Center for Sexology Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Denmark
| | - Rikke Meyer
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Annamaria Giraldi
- Sexological Clinic, Mental Health Center, Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Copenhagen, Denmark,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark,Corresponding Author: Annamaria Giraldi, MD, PhD, FECSM, IF, Sexological Clinic, Mental Health Center, Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital – Mental Health Services CPH, Ole Maaloesvej 14, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark. Tel: + 45 38 64 71 69
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A review study of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on individual sexual behavior, purchasing sex toys, and related consequences. SEXOLOGIES 2022. [PMCID: PMC9250901 DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Globally, COVID-19, both during and after the pandemic, has not only slowed countries’ economic development but has also affected social and daily life. Due to COVID-19, physical contact among couples has been reduced, and physical sexual activities have been affected and decreased. In order to satisfy their sexual needs and avoid mental health issues, individuals have shown an increasing inclination to purchase sex toys. Therefore, we conducted this review study to investigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on sexual activities, purchasing sex toys, and related consequences. Specifically, the present paper examines 45 studies and focuses on four themes: (1) COVID-19 and sex toys; (2) COVID-19 and sex (i.e. sexual life, sexuality, sexual health, sexual behavior); (3) factors affecting purchasing sex toys; and (4) COVID-19 consequences. The study findings reflect that, during to the pandemic, sex toy sales doubled in Australia, Colombia, Denmark, and the UK, and tripled in New Zealand. Sex toys have entailed positive (i.e. increased satisfaction, confidence, pleasure) and negative (addiction, allergic reaction, risk of sexually transmitted infection, embarrassment, and guilt) implications. In addition, participants all over the world engaged more in using sex toys and watching pornography to satisfy their sexual needs. Further, the use of online dating applications also increased, in order to have sex with close or casual partners. Regarding purchasing sex toys, we postulate that people buy these products due to lack of opportunity, relationship avoidance, loneliness, cost-effectiveness, time-saving, and emotionless behavior. Moreover, the pandemic has worsened family and sexual relationships. It has also increased anxiety, stress, and violence in society. In this context, we assert that there is still a need to explore the factors influencing individuals’ intentions toward purchasing sex toys, and studies need to be conducted to understand in more detail COVID-19's effects, both during and after the pandemic.
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Bjekic MD, Vlajinac HD. Is COVID-19 affecting the epidemiology of syphilis in Belgrade? Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2022; 88:702. [DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_76_2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hristina D Vlajinac
- Institute of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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Do Digital Technologies Influence the Relationship between the COVID-19 Crisis and SMEs’ Resilience in Developing Countries? JOURNAL OF OPEN INNOVATION: TECHNOLOGY, MARKET, AND COMPLEXITY 2022; 8:100. [PMCID: PMC9800900 DOI: 10.3390/joitmc8020100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is not only a medical emergency but also a business emergency that has created the need for organizations to be resilient and versatile in managing the impact of the pandemic on their business operations. At this time, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the most vulnerable to the economic disaster caused by the recent crisis, because these companies do not have the necessary resources to absorb losses. This research reviewed the impact of digital technologies on SMEs’ resilience during the pandemic, focusing on companies in developing countries. Based on the 96 SMEs surveyed across six developing countries, the study shows that digital technology has helped SMEs to survive the pandemic, assisting SMEs in becoming more robust and ensuring their survival. This research fills a significant research gap in the literature, highlighting the inherent challenges of SMEs in developing countries and their digital transformation strategies. This study also offers practical recommendations for SMEs, tech developers, and policymakers to invest more effort in putting new procedures in place to ensure the efficacy of digital technology.
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CANİKLİOĞLU M, IŞIKAY L, SELMİ V, SARI S, ÖZTEKİN Ü, ÖZKAYA M. How Has the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Sexual Health of Partnered Men? MUSTAFA KEMAL ÜNIVERSITESI TIP DERGISI 2022. [DOI: 10.17944/mkutfd.939834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Xu W, Wang Y, Sun S, Yao L, Li T, Fu X. Spatiotemporal heterogeneity of PM2.5 and its driving difference comparison associated with urbanization in China's multiple urban agglomerations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:29689-29703. [PMID: 34993793 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-17929-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The development of urban agglomeration further deteriorates the air pollution status arising from urbanization. However, disparities in the urbanization process across different urban agglomerations may shape unique regional air pollution characters, and further complicate its driving mechanism. In this study, 11 urban agglomerations with different urbanization levels in China thus were chosen as the case study areas, to explore the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of PM2.5 and its potential driving difference related to the urbanization process from a multi-urban agglomeration perspective. The ground-monitored PM2.5 data and socioeconomic panel data (2015-2018) were processed using multiple statistical analysis methods, and the main findings of this study can be generated as followed: (1) significant spatial heterogeneity characteristics of PM2.5 pollution were recognized across the study area. And even though obvious improvement in the air quality during the study period, PM2.5 concentration remains at a high level for most of the urban agglomerations. (2) Urbanization process has a substantial contribution to regional PM2.5 pollution, and significant differences of the urbanization factors on PM2.5 concentration across the urban agglomerations assigned with various urbanization levels were emphasized. The significance of this study is to provide insight into the relationship of the urbanization process on PM2.5 pollution in different urban agglomerations and to offer a scientific basis for regional cooperation for air pollution regulation among multiple urban agglomerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wentian Xu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Yixu Wang
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Shuo Sun
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Lei Yao
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China.
| | - Tong Li
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
| | - Xuecheng Fu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250014, China
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Masoudi M, Maasoumi R, Bragazzi NL. Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on sexual functioning and activity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:189. [PMID: 35086497 PMCID: PMC8794736 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12390-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since December 2019, when it was first reported in Wuhan, province of Hubei, China, the new virus SARS-CoV-2 has spread rapidly around the world and has become a global pandemic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the public health measures implemented, people's sexual activity has also been affected. Restrictions on people's activities, reduced sports activities, economic issues, increased psychological stress, and reduced entertainment have, indeed, dramatically impacted sexual activity and functioning. The purpose of this study was tosystematically identify, collect and summarize the existing body of evidence from published studies on the effects of COVID-19 pandemic on sexual activity and functioning. METHODS Several scholarly databases, namely MEDLINE (via PubMed interface), Web of Science (WOS), Embase, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, and PsycINFO databases, were mined from December 2019 to the end of January 2021. We utilized a random-effect meta-analytical model to analyze all the data. More in detail, the Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) was used in order to estimate and evaluate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on sexual activity and functioning. RESULTS Twenty-one studies were included in the present study. In total, 2454 women and 3765 men were evaluated. In the present meta-analysis, sexual functioning and activity were assessed by means of two standardized and reliable tools, namely the "Female Sexual Function Index" (FSFI) and the "International Index of Erectile Function-5 items" (IIEF-5). A total of 5 studies reported the FSFI score before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in female participants. Based on the random-effect model, the SMD was computed to be - 4.26 [95% confidence interval or CI: - 7.26, - 1.25], being statistically significant. A total of 3 studies reported the IIEF-5 score before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in male participants. Based on the random-effect model, the SMD was computed to be - 0.66 [CI 95%: - 0.99, - 0.33], being statistically significant. In the majority of these studies, participants reported a reduction in the number of sexual relations and an increase in the frequency of solo sex activity, especially masturbation, compared to the time prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSION The results of the present study showed that COVID-19 related restrictions were correlated with higher rates of sexual dysfunction and reduced sexual activity; however, results of the current meta-analytical study show that this change in sexual functioning was greater in women compared to men. Sex is one of the dimensions of every person's life; therefore, researchers should identify the factors that lead to sexual dysfunction due to COVID-19 pandemic in their community. In this regard, sexologists should design and implement effective programs to reduce the heterogeneous causes affecting sexual functioning, given the psychological strain that the COVID-19 pandemic puts on individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Masoudi
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Raziyeh Maasoumi
- grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Department of Midwifery and Reproductive Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran ,grid.411705.60000 0001 0166 0922Nursing and Midwifery Care Research Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- grid.21100.320000 0004 1936 9430Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON Canada ,grid.5606.50000 0001 2151 3065Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), Postgraduate School of Public Health, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
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Gauvin SEM, Mulroy ME, McInnis MK, Jackowich RA, Levang SL, Coyle SM, Pukall CF. An Investigation of Sexual and Relationship Adjustment During COVID-19. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2022; 51:273-285. [PMID: 35059943 PMCID: PMC8776387 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02212-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic and the mitigation measures put in place have resulted in universal disruption in the usual ways of life for individuals. The current study sought to investigate how aspects of sexual health (well-being and functioning) and relationship satisfaction changed or remained stable during the pandemic. During two separate time points (Time 1 including Time 1 and a retrospective baseline, Time 2), participants completed online measures of sexual well-being (sexual pleasure, partnered and solitary orgasm frequency, sexual distress), sexual functioning, and relationship satisfaction. Participants reported slight declines in sexual pleasure, frequency of orgasms with a partner, and frequency of solitary orgasms from pre-COVID-19 (retrospective baseline) to Time 1, with no significant differences in sexual distress and relationship satisfaction. For individuals with vulvas, sexual functioning improved from Time 1 to Time 2, whereas no significant differences in sexual functioning were observed for individuals with penises. Aspects of sexual health and relational satisfaction did not sufficiently change across time points to be considered meaningful health outcome changes. Given that minimal disruptions were noted in pre-COVID-19 to COVID-19 sexuality, these results highlight the potential resiliency of individuals' sexuality when facing sudden changes in their daily lives. Implications of COVID-19's effects on sexual well-being and relationship satisfaction research are broadly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maeve E Mulroy
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Meghan K McInnis
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Robyn A Jackowich
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Samantha L Levang
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Shannon M Coyle
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Caroline F Pukall
- Department of Psychology, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada.
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Gil-Salmerón A, López-Sánchez GF, López-Bueno R, Pardhan S, Grabovac I, Smith L. Association between Anxious and Depressive Symptomatology and Sexual Activity in Spain: A Cross-Sectional Study during the COVID-19 Quarantine. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010147. [PMID: 35010405 PMCID: PMC8751132 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence on sexual behaviour and COVID-19 shows a change in sexual habits; however, there is no research on the association between mental health and sexual activity. AIM To examine the relationship between mental health and sexual activity during the quarantine in Spanish adults. METHODS A sample of 305 adults filled out an online questionnaire. Sexual activity was assessed with one question. Anxiety and depression symptoms were assessed using the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) and the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), respectively. To check associations between levels of both anxiety and depressive symptoms (exposure) and weekly prevalence of sexual activity (outcome), we conducted multiple logistic regression adjusted for control variables (marital status, employment, average household annual income, place of living, pre-COVID-19 sexual activity, current smoking, current alcohol consumption, chronic physical conditions, chronic psychiatric conditions, physical symptoms, and days of confinement). RESULTS Higher depression level was associated with lower weekly sexual activity in a dose-response fashion in the three implemented models. Participants with higher levels of depression were associated with significantly lower sexual activity in the fully adjusted model (OR: 0.09, 95% CI 0.01-0.61). Mild anxiety-level participants consistently presented significantly lower ORs for lower sexual activity than their minimal-anxiety category counterparts. Particularly, the fully adjusted model showed the lower values (OR: 0.40, 95% CI 0.19-0.84). CONCLUSION The results of this study support existing evidence stressing the association between mental health and sexual activity in quarantined adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Gil-Salmerón
- International Foundation for Integrated Care, Oxford OX2 6UD, UK
- Correspondence: (A.G.-S.); (G.F.L.-S.); (R.L.-B.)
| | - Guillermo F. López-Sánchez
- Vision and Eye Research Institute, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Cambridge Campus, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK;
- Correspondence: (A.G.-S.); (G.F.L.-S.); (R.L.-B.)
| | - Rubén López-Bueno
- Department of Physical Medicine and Nursing, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.G.-S.); (G.F.L.-S.); (R.L.-B.)
| | - Shahina Pardhan
- Vision and Eye Research Institute, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Cambridge Campus, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK;
- Centre for Health, Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK;
| | - Igor Grabovac
- Centre for Public Health, Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Lee Smith
- Centre for Health, Performance and Wellbeing, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK;
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16
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Marano G, Traversi G, Mazza M. Web-mediated Counseling Relationship in Support of the New Sexuality and Affectivity During the COVID-19 Epidemic: A Continuum Between Desire and Fear. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:753-755. [PMID: 33479805 PMCID: PMC7819627 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-020-01908-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Marano
- Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology, Department of Geriatrics, Neuroscience and Orthopedics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00136, Rome, Italy
- U.P. ASPIC Università Popolare del Counseling, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Marianna Mazza
- Institute of Psychiatry and Psychology, Department of Geriatrics, Neuroscience and Orthopedics, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo A. Gemelli 8, 00136, Rome, Italy.
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