1
|
Leistner CE, Mark KP. Attitudes toward mothers as sexual beings and the sexual functioning of parents. J Sex Med 2024:qdae104. [PMID: 39206866 DOI: 10.1093/jsxmed/qdae104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has shown that negative sexual attitudes are associated with lower levels of sexual functioning among men and women, however, little is known about how attitudes about mothers as sexual beings are associated with sexual functioning for parents. AIM The aim of the current study was to examine how attitudes toward mothers as sexual beings (ATMSB) were associated with sexual functioning for women and partners of women among parents with young children. METHODS Cross-sectional retrospective data were collected online via Qualtrics Panels from 475 women and men (partnered to women) who reported having their first child within the last 5 years.Outcomes: The Revised Female Sexual Function Index and revised Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite-Short Form were used to measure sexual function in women and men, respectively. RESULTS Results indicated that after controlling for age and relationship length, more positive ATMSB predicted higher levels of sexual functioning (and multiple domains of functioning) for men and women.Clinical Implications: These findings indicate that sexual functioning, especially in parents, is linked to the attitudes held toward seeing mothers as inherently sexual (or not). STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This is the first study to examine how attitudes toward mothers as sexual beings can impact sexual functioning, though the cis heterosexual mostly white sample is a notable limitation. CONCLUSION ATMSB may need to be examined and challenged in the context of treating sexual dysfunction during this transitional period for mothers and those partnered to mothers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Leistner
- Department of Public Health and Health Services Administration, California State University, Chico, CA 95928-0505, United States
| | - Kristen P Mark
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55455, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Leistner CE, Mark KP. Attitudes toward Mothers as Sexual Beings (ATMSB): Scale Development and Associations with Satisfaction and Desire among Parents with Young Children. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2023; 60:1223-1234. [PMID: 36318184 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2022.2137450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Societal messages about mothers indicate an incompatibility between motherhood and sexuality and women report not feeling like sexual beings after transitioning into parenthood. Research shows that negative sexual attitudes are associated with worse sexual function, indicating that negative attitudes toward mothers as sexual beings may negatively impact the sexual health of mothers and their partners. However, there is no existing tool to measure sexual attitudes about mothers. The aim of this study was to develop a tool to measure attitudes toward mothers as sexual beings (ATMSB) and examine associations with sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction, and desire among men and women with small children. Men and women with their first child no older than 5 (N = 481) were recruited from Qualtrics Panels. Results indicated that the ATMSB scale is a reliable and valid 11-item tool for measuring attitudes about mothers as sexual beings. The scale has two subscales, one on sexuality and quality of mothering and another on mothers' sexual interests and behaviors. ATMSB scores were associated with sexual satisfaction, relationship satisfaction and desire for men and women with young children. This scale has implications for sex research and clinical practice addressing issues that are relevant to mothers and their partners.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Leistner
- Department of Public Health and Health Services Administration, California State University, Chico, California, USA
| | - Kristen P Mark
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Dawson SJ, Fitzpatrick ET, Farm GHJ, Rosen NO. Self-Compassion and Compassionate Love Are Positively Associated with Sexual and Relational Well-Being Among Expectant and New Parent Couples. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:3393-3404. [PMID: 37491622 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02658-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Pregnancy and the postpartum period can be a challenging time for many couples' relationships. Outside of pregnancy and the postpartum period, being more attentive and sensitive to one's own suffering (i.e., high in self-compassion) and showing love that centers on another person's well-being (i.e., compassionate love) has been linked with greater sexual and relationship satisfaction and lower sexual distress. Both self-compassion and compassionate love may benefit couples during the perinatal period by facilitating more adaptive coping and greater responsiveness to one's own and one's partner's needs. The goal of this study was to examine associations between self-compassion and compassionate love and sexual and relationship satisfaction and sexual distress in two samples of (1) expectant (n = 102) and (2) new parent (n = 102) couples. During pregnancy, self-compassion and compassionate love were linked with higher relationship and sexual satisfaction and lower sexual distress. In the postpartum, higher self-compassion and compassionate love were associated with greater relationship satisfaction, but were less consistently linked with sexual satisfaction and sexual distress. Consistent with theory, self-compassion and compassionate love may allow expectant and new parent couples to adjust to the demands of new parenthood more easily, with benefits for their sexual and relationship wellbeing. Given our data and the established benefits of self-compassion and compassionate love for facilitating adjustment during stressful life events, educating couples about the importance of fostering self-compassion and compassionate love during pregnancy, and after the baby is born, may cultivate resilience which, in turn, may promote stronger relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Dawson
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - Erin T Fitzpatrick
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Gwen H-J Farm
- Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Natalie O Rosen
- Departments of Psychology and Neuroscience and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Damiris IK, Allen A. Exploring the Relationship between Early Adaptive Schemas and Sexual Satisfaction. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2023; 35:13-29. [PMID: 38596764 PMCID: PMC10903692 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2022.2155897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Rationale Early maladaptive schemas (EMS) develop from unmet core emotional needs during childhood and adolescence. EMS influence the way individuals perceive themselves and others, while also sharing associations with various sexual difficulties. Contrastingly, Early Adaptive Schemas (EAS) develop when core emotional needs are met. Yet, the potential influence of EAS on sexual wellbeing remains underinvestigated. Objective The current study assessed the relationship between EAS and sexual satisfaction as a primary component of sexual wellbeing. Method The study design was an online, cross-sectional survey. Participants included 732 adults (Mage = 32.05, SDage = 9.30), who completed self-report questionnaires assessing sexual satisfaction and EAS. Results Two, three-step hierarchical regressions evaluated the effect of EAS on sexual satisfaction, controlling for several potentially confounding variables. Results indicated that the only EAS that was associated with sexual satisfaction in both men and women was Realistic Expectations. EAS of Social Belonging and Success were associated with sexual satisfaction for women alone, whereas Self-Compassion was for men. Conclusion Findings provide preliminary evidence that EAS are associated with sexual satisfaction. As such, schema therapy may be a useful therapeutic framework for improving sexual satisfaction, when indicated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabella K. Damiris
- School of Health and Behavioral Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Andrew Allen
- School of Health and Behavioral Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Sexuality satisfaction 3 years after childbirth is better than men think. SEXOLOGIES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sexol.2022.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
6
|
Leistner CE, Mark KP. Positive Communication and Partner Appraisals Among Mothers and Their Long-Term Male Partners: Impact on Sexual and Relationship Satisfaction. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2019; 46:269-281. [PMID: 31777315 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2019.1692980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Parents in the USA struggle to maintain their sexual and relational health over time. The current study aimed to investigate the impact of positive communication and partner appraisals on sexual and relationship satisfaction in a sample of 93 mixed sex couples (N = 186) with children living in the home on a full-time basis. Results indicated that for men and women, positive communication scores predicted higher levels of sexual and relationship satisfaction and more positive partner appraisals predicted higher levels of relationship satisfaction. Significant results were also found at the couple-level. Findings have clinical and educational implications for parents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Leistner
- Department of Public Health and Health Services Administration, California State University, Chico, CA, USA
| | - Kristen P Mark
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion, University of Kentucky, KY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lorimer K, DeAmicis L, Dalrymple J, Frankis J, Jackson L, Lorgelly P, McMillan L, Ross J. A Rapid Review of Sexual Wellbeing Definitions and Measures: Should We Now Include Sexual Wellbeing Freedom? JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:843-853. [PMID: 31335208 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2019.1635565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
An increasing number of studies refer to sexual wellbeing and/or seek to measure it, and the term appears across various policy documents, including sexual health frameworks in the UK. We conducted a rapid review to determine how sexual wellbeing has been defined, qualitatively explored and quantitatively measured. Eligible studies selected for inclusion from OVID Medline, PsychInfo, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL were: in English language, published after 2007, were peer-reviewed full articles, focused on sexual wellbeing (or proxies for, e.g. satisfaction, function), and quantitatively or qualitatively assessed sexual wellbeing. We included studies with participants aged 16-65. Given study heterogeneity, our synthesis and findings are reported using a narrative approach. We identified 162 papers, of which 10 offered a definition of sexual wellbeing. Drawing upon a socio-ecological model, we categorised the 59 dimensions we identified from studies under three main domains: cognitive-affect (31 dimensions); inter-personal (22 dimensions); and socio-cultural (6 dimensions). Only 11 papers were categorised under the socio-cultural domain, commonly focusing on gender inequalities or stigma. We discuss the importance of conceptualising sexual wellbeing as individually experienced but socially and structurally influenced, including assessing sexual wellbeing freedom: a person's freedom to achieve sexual wellbeing, or their real opportunities and liberties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Lorimer
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | - Leyla DeAmicis
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | - Jenny Dalrymple
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | - Jamie Frankis
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | | | | | - Lesley McMillan
- Glasgow School for Business and Society, Glasgow Caledonian University
| | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sexual well-being and perceived stress in couples transitioning to parenthood: A dyadic analysis. Int J Clin Health Psychol 2019; 19:198-208. [PMID: 31516498 PMCID: PMC6732775 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijchp.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 07/22/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Objective The transition to parenthood encompasses several psychological and relational changes that might contribute to couples’ high levels of stress postpartum. Although common across the postpartum, couples’ sexual changes are frequently overlooked. Method We surveyed 255 mixed-sex new parent couples to examine the associations between sexual well-being—sexual satisfaction, desire, and postpartum sexual concerns—and perceived stress postpartum. Couples completed self-report questionnaires assessing perceived stress and sexual well-being. Results For both mothers and fathers, greater sexual satisfaction was associated with their partners’ lower perceived stress and, for fathers, this was also associated with their own lower perceived stress. For mothers, greater partner-focused sexual desire was associated with their own lower perceived stress whereas, for fathers, greater partner-focused sexual desire was associated with their partners’ higher perceived stress. In addition, greater solitary sexual desire and postpartum sexual concerns were associated with both parents’ own higher perceived stress. Conclusions This study highlights the association between sexual well-being and couples’ postpartum stress, suggesting that more positive sexual experiences are linked to lower perceptions of stress across this vulnerable period. Couples’ sexual well-being may be an important target for interventions aimed at helping postpartum couples cope with stress.
Collapse
|
9
|
Rosen NO, Mooney K, Muise A. Dyadic Empathy Predicts Sexual and Relationship Well-Being in Couples Transitioning to Parenthood. JOURNAL OF SEX & MARITAL THERAPY 2017; 43:543-559. [PMID: 27400021 DOI: 10.1080/0092623x.2016.1208698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Becoming a new parent is typically a time of great joy, yet it is also marked by significant declines in sexual and relationship functioning. Dyadic empathy, a combination of perspective taking and empathic concern for one's romantic partner, may facilitate sexual and relationship quality for new parents. The purpose of this study was to examine the associations between dyadic empathy and sexual satisfaction, relationship adjustment, and sexual desire in a sample of first-time parents. Couples (N = 255) with an infant aged three to 12 months completed an online survey assessing dyadic empathy, sexual satisfaction, relationship adjustment, and sexual desire. Data were analyzed using multilevel analyses guided by the actor-partner interdependence model. When new mothers and fathers reported greater dyadic empathy, both they and their partners reported higher sexual satisfaction and relationship adjustment. New mothers who reported higher dyadic empathy also had higher sexual desire, although when they had more empathic partners new mothers reported lower sexual desire. Results remained significant after controlling for potential challenges unique to the postpartum period (e.g., fatigue, breastfeeding), as well as relationship duration. Targeting dyadic empathy in interventions aimed at helping couples transition to parenthood may promote the maintenance of sexual and relationship well-being.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie O Rosen
- a Psychology & Neuroscience , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
- b Obstetrics & Gynaecology , IWK Health Centre , Halifax , Canada
| | - Kayla Mooney
- a Psychology & Neuroscience , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
| | - Amy Muise
- a Psychology & Neuroscience , Dalhousie University , Halifax , Nova Scotia , Canada
- b Obstetrics & Gynaecology , IWK Health Centre , Halifax , Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Hansson M, Ahlborg T. Factors contributing to separation/divorce in parents of small children in Sweden. NORDIC PSYCHOLOGY 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/19012276.2015.1071201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
11
|
O'Malley D, Higgins A, Smith V. Postpartum sexual health: a principle-based concept analysis. J Adv Nurs 2015; 71:2247-57. [PMID: 25996569 DOI: 10.1111/jan.12692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM The aim of this study is to report an analysis of the concept of postpartum sexual health. BACKGROUND Postpartum sexual health is a minimally understood concept, most often framed within physical/biological dimensions or as a 'checklist' task in postpartum information provision. This has the potential to leave women unprepared to manage transient or normative sexual health changes after childbirth. For meaningful discussions, clarity and understanding of postpartum sexual health is required. DESIGN A principle-based method of concept analysis. DATA SOURCES The databases of PubMed, CINAHL, Maternity and Infant Care, PsychInfo, Web of Science, EMBASE, SCOPUS and Social Science Index were systematically searched, from their earliest dates, using a combination of key terms, including; 'sexual health', 'sexual function', 'dyspareunia', 'sexuality', 'sexual desire', 'sexual dysfunction', 'postnatal' and 'postpartum', resulting in a final included dataset of 91 studies. METHODS Using the principle-based approach, postpartum sexual health was analysed under the four philosophical principles of epistemological, pragmatic, linguistic and logical. RESULTS Philosophically, postpartum sexual health is underdeveloped as a concept. A precise theoretical definition remains elusive and, presently, postpartum sexual health cannot be separated theoretically from sexuality and sexual function. Identified antecedents include an instrument free birth, an intact perineum and avoidance of episiotomy. Attributes include sexual arousal, desire, orgasm, sexual satisfaction and resumption of sexual intercourse. Outcomes are sexual satisfaction and a satisfying intimate relationship with one's partner. CONCLUSION Postpartum sexual health is conceptually immature with limited applicability in current midwifery practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Agnes Higgins
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Valerie Smith
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Colson MH. [Female sexuality and parenthood]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 42:714-20. [PMID: 25262091 DOI: 10.1016/j.gyobfe.2014.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Accepted: 06/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
From the child conception to the early years of life, couples generally present less sexual activity. Parenthood constraints are a burden for the couple's relationships. Generally, persistent sexual difficulties six months after delivery, despite those generated by depression or altered health raise the question of an alteration in the quality of the couple's relationships and lack of satisfaction of the mother with her partner's involvement in family life. Numerous parameters can be implied, especially with persistent trouble of desire, such as fatigue, body image problems and libido lessening of the partner due to modifications of his status. Women who presented sexual difficulties before pregnancy remain the same. In all cases, appropriate information can avoid the intimacy's difficulties and contribute to maintain pleasure and intimacy even when vaginal penetration remains difficult.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M-H Colson
- Hôpital Sainte-Marguerite, 270, boulevard de Sainte-Marguerite, 13009 Marseille, France.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
When sex hurts: Female genital pain with sexual consequences deserves attention: A position paper. Scand J Pain 2014; 5:202-205. [PMID: 29913710 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjpain.2014.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background and aims The problem of sexual pain is an area that has been shamefully ignored by both the pain community and the health service authorities. Although about 40% of women report such pain and 30% report it during their last intercourse, sexual pain has historically not even been considered a pain problem. The objectives of the present study was to present a background to the problem of female sexual pain, further elaborate on the problem and offer some direction for how advances might be concretely made. Discussion Genital pain is common and many women describe pain during several non-sexual activities. Therefore describing the pain strictly as a sexual problem, threatens to lose important information about the experience of pain which will be misleading both in assessment and treatment. Instead, seeing the problem as a multidimensional pain condition with debilitating sexual consequences is suggested. It has become apparent that although biological aspects are central in the experience of genital pain, psychological and social aspects may play a major role. The fear avoidance model which has played a major role in our understanding of the development of chronic musculoskeletal pain, also seems to be applicable in genital pain conditions. However, one has to be aware of certain differences when comparing genital pain from musculoskeletal conditions. In addition, there is a lack of established guidelines for assessing or treating unexplained genital pain conditions, and there is a risk of not acknowledging the role of socio-cultural context on how female sexuality is viewed. The problem of recurrent sexual pain is a highly volatile, personal, and socially weighted experience. Because of the lack of understanding of the mechanisms, it is a risk of over-emphasizing the role of vaginal penetration in the assessment and treatment of female sexual pain and clinicians may simply fail to investigate sexual function from a broader perspective. Conclusions and implications There is a growing interest in the problem of female genital pain and associated problems with sexual pain. However, research predominately refers to the field of sex research, and the involvement from the pain community has to date been relatively low. There is an immediate need to identify the psychosocial mechanisms involved in the transition from acute to chronic genital pain in women and to address these components in treatment using established methods. Since sexual pain is far more than pain during vaginal penetration, there is a risk of treatment interventions being oriented towards performance in terms of a narrowly defined sexual behavior instead of focusing on valued activities, meaning and pleasure for the individual. Assessment and treatment have to include a broad perspective on pain and on sex.
Collapse
|
14
|
Ahlborg T, Lilleengen AM, Lönnfjord V, Petersen C. Quality of dyadic relationship in Swedish men and women living in long-term relationships and in couples in family counselling – Introduction of a new self-report measure, QDR36. NORDIC PSYCHOLOGY 2012. [DOI: 10.1027/1901-2276.61.3.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
15
|
Quality of the intimate and sexual relationship in first-time parents – A longitudinal study. SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE 2012; 3:21-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.srhc.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2011] [Revised: 10/11/2011] [Accepted: 10/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|