Evaluation of sexual self-efficacy and sexual function in women with multiple sclerosis in Mashhad, Iran, in 2019: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: In chronic illnesses, sexual dysfunction (SD) is one of the most prevalent complaints. Sexual self-efficacy (SSE) is an individual’s beliefs about his/her ability to perform an effective sexual function and be favorable to their partner. The aim of the present study was to assess SSE and sexual function in women with multiple sclerosis (MS).
 Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in 2019 on 260 married women referring to the MS clinic and MS society of Khorasan-Razavi in Mashhad, Iran. The research population was selected using convenience sampling. The Sexual Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (SSEQ), Multiple Sclerosis Intimacy and Sexuality Questionnaire-19 (MSISQ-19), and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) were completed by the participants who had the inclusion criteria. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient in SPSS software.
 Results: The participants had a mean age of 35.2 ± 8.4 years and their mean duration of MS was 4.46 ± 3.71 years. The findings showed a negative correlation between SSE and SD (r = -0.606; P = 0.001) and a positive correlation between SSE and sexual function (r = 0.644; P = 0.001). Moreover, MSISQ-19 and FSFI scores supported each other (r = -0.675; P = 0.001).
 Conclusion: SD is prevalent among women with MS. Moreover, sexual function is substantially associated with SSE in these women.

Bidimensional self-esteem and sexual functioning among young adults: A systematic review

“…These constructs share theoretical congruence in goal pursuit or attainment, thus promoting behavioural change (Rodgers et al, 2014). Therefore, the domain of self-competence in the bidimensional model of self-esteem may encompass selfefficacy or sexual self-efficacy, which includes the ability to possess autonomy, desirability, and achieve pleasure from their sexual activities and performance (Closson et al, 2018;Fichten et al, 2019), and is positively associated with sexual functioning (Manouchehri et al, 2021).…”

Domestic violence experienced by women with multiple sclerosis: a study from the North-East of Iran

“…Economic violence is such that in many parts of the world, women are unpaid workers and have to take care of their families for the rest of their lives and remain dependent on the male member of the family. It also includes depriving a woman of income from work or inheritance, locking her in the home, and not allowing her to work [ 10 , 11 ].…”

“…About 30% of people with MS need supportive care at home, and 80% of this care is provided by a spouse [ 29 , 30 ]. The level of life satisfaction, intimacy, sexual self-efficacy, and marital relationship is reduced for the patient and caregiver spouse [ 11 , 12 ].…”