Effect of PLISSIT Based Sexual Counseling Model on Sexual Dysfunction among Diabetic Pregnant Women

Abstract

Sexual dysfunction is a common problem in women. It extremely affects reproductive health and quality of life. This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of permission, limited information, specific suggestions, and intensive therapy (PLISSIT) based sexual counseling model on sexual dysfunction among diabetic pregnant women. Methods: A quasi-experimental design was utilized at Antenatal Clinic, Mansoura University Hospital, Egypt. A nonprobability purposive sample of 68 pregnant women with diabetes was allocated to either the control group (received routine antenatal care) or intervention group (received PLISSIT based sexual counseling). Data were collected using a structured interview schedule, Pregnancy Sexual Response Inventory (PSRI), and Sexual Quality of Life-Female (SQOL-F). Results: There was no statistical significant difference the total mean scores of PSRI and SQOL-F at baseline assessment between control and PLLIST groups. However, there were highly significant differences in the PSRI (P < 0.0001) and SQOL-F (P < 0.001) scores after implementation of PLISSIT based sexual counseling model among the studied groups. Moreover, the total PSRI score showed direct significant correlation with the total SQOL score before (p = 0.028) and after (p < 0.001) application of PLISST. Conclusion: The PLISSIT-based sexual counseling model has a positive effect on sexual function of pregnant women with diabetes. It improves the quality of their sexual life. Recommendations: The study recommended that, the PLISSIT model of sexual therapy should be integrated into routine antenatal care for pregnant women with diabetes.