Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy

Koçak, Vesile; Aygör, Hamide

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2449875pmid: 39893548

Abstract Sexual dysfunction is frequent problem among women during the postpartum period, which is a sensitive period of life. Body image and genital self-image, which is an aspect of body image, are significant issues. Women with a heightened focus on their physical appearance and negative body image are at an increased risk of experiencing sexual dysfunction linked to their body image. The aim of this research was to examine the relationships among sexual dysfunction, genital self-image, and body perception during sexual intercourse in the postpartum period and to explore the causes of sexual dysfunction. To accomplish these aims, a consecutive, mixed-methods study was performed, consisting of a survey (N = 379) and follow-up interviews (n = 24) with women up to 1 year postpartum in Turkey. Having a vaginal birth, being multipara, and desiring genital plastic surgery are associated with a negative genital self-image and sexual dysfunction in women postpartum. Negative genital self-image was also found to be associated with sexual dysfunction. When examined in-depth, complications during birth and the postpartum period (e.g., perineal trauma, episiotomy, lacerations, stitches), combined with preexisting problems, contributed to sexual dysfunction in women postpartum. The postpartum period is often a very sensitive time, during which women’s lives may change completely. Birth complications that may affect their sexual lives and women’s perceptions about their genital organs may be related to sexual dysfunction. Genital self-image needs to be addressed when providing postpartum care.

Nickull, Sabina; Jern, Patrick; Niu, Caoyuan; Källström, Marianne; Gunst, Annika

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2452844pmid: 39853205

Abstract Sexual compliance (i.e., consenting to sex without initial sexual desire) can have both positive and negative consequences for well-being. This study explored predictors of perceived consequences of sexual compliance in cisgendered men and women from a population-based, Finnish sample (men n = 449, women n = 499, age M = 34.1, relationship duration M = 8.9). We drew upon existing literature and theoretical frameworks to select the following predictors; sexual approach and avoidance motives, sexual self-efficacy, avoidant and anxious attachment, sexual self-esteem, sexual assertiveness, symptoms of depression and/or anxiety, sexual distress, dyadic sexual communication, dyadic trust, and partner’s sexual coercion. The predictors explained 31–38% of the variance in perceived positive consequences and 33–43% of the variance in perceived negative consequences of sexual compliance. Approach motives for sex had the strongest association with perceived positive consequences and having been sexually coerced by one’s partner and sexual distress had the strongest associations with perceived negative consequences of sexual compliance. There were some variations in the predictors between genders, but the differing predictors had weak effects on the perceived consequences. Our findings can help clinicians identify focus areas when working with clients who experience a desire discrepancy in their intimate relationships.

Vale, Fabiene Bernardes Castro; Lopes, Gerson Pereira; Peixoto Silva, Ananda

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2455132pmid: 39849997

Abstract Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder/Genito-Pelvic Dysesthesia (PGAD/GPD) is characterized by persistent or recurrent unwanted genital arousal, causing significant distress to the affected individual. Classified as a sexual dysfunction, PGAD/GPD is predominantly described in women and severely affect their quality of life with psychological repercussions. Despite its morbidity, PGAD/GPD remains unfamiliar to healthcare professionals. This article provides a narrative review of the disorder, addressing current literature on its pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment approaches from a biopsychosocial perspective. The aim is to increase awareness among healthcare providers, enabling appropriate management strategies for PGAD/GPD and improving patient overall well-being.

McDeavitt, Kathleen; Cohn, J.; Levine, Stephen B.

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2455133pmid: 39903043

Abstract The Cass Review’s final report, published in April 2024, made recommendations to the UK’s National Health Service regarding structuring of services for minors with gender-related distress. It recommended cautious use of hormonal interventions in this population and use of research protocols. Some clinician-researchers disagree with the Cass Review’s recommendations and have written critiques. A critique of the Cass Review posted on Yale Law School’s website in July 2024 has received extensive media coverage. Its references identified three other critiques. In these papers, there were multiple claims that were incorrect or that lacked essential clarification/contextualization. These claims involved (1) the Cass Review’s contents and processes; (2) the pediatric transgender healthcare evidence base; (3) existing clinical practice guidelines, including claims that there is international medical consensus; (4) evidence-based medical practice and guideline development; and (5) conclusions regarding the validity of the Cass Review’s findings. The Cass Review’s careful, balanced investigations and judgments were a comprehensive, evidence-based response to the controversies in this pediatric clinical arena. Recently-published critiques of the Review have contained incorrect or inadequately contextualized claims. Because accurate information about medical interventions is essential to informed consent, it is important to correct errors in potentially influential publications.

Defant, Marc J.

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2456066pmid: 39841090

Abstract This paper critically examines the scientific and ethical underpinnings of gender-affirming care, particularly for minors. While major medical organizations endorse such interventions as medically necessary, the evidence supporting their long-term safety and efficacy remains limited. Research into hormonal, neuroanatomic, and genetic influences reveals a strong biological basis for gender identity, challenging social constructionist arguments. There is a lack of robust, long-term studies that definitively demonstrate the outcomes of gender-affirming medical treatments, such as puberty blockers or hormone therapy, for minors. Questions remain about how these interventions affect physical health (e.g., bone density, fertility) and mental well-being over decades. These gaps in the evidence, particularly for adolescents, raise ethical concerns about the appropriateness of irreversible medical treatments. This analysis highlights the tension between the social constructivist framework of gender and the medicalization of gender dysphoria. It explores the implications of rising desistance rates, co-occurring mental health conditions, and increasing non-binary identities within current clinical paradigms. Drawing on evidence from cases involving gender detransitioning, the impact of hormones, and neurological development in both straight, gay, and trans individuals, the paper underscores the importance of cautious, evidence-based approaches that prioritize psychological maturity and comprehensive mental health assessments. Ultimately, the paper advocates for rigorous longitudinal research, enhanced mental health evaluations, and the development of noninvasive therapeutic options in particular anda reevaluation of treatment models to ensure ethically sound and scientifically supported care for individuals experiencing gender dysphoria.

Martínez Preciado, Juan Manuel; Sandoval-Salinas, Carolina; Corredor Ayala, Héctor

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2456317pmid: 39868458

Abstract In this study, data from 7,440 patients from six Ibero-American countries were analyzed, focusing on men who consulted for erectile dysfunction (ED). Participants were queried about infidelity in their relationships. Results showed a negative correlation between infidelity and the severity of ED, suggesting that the likelihood of infidelity decreases as the severity of ED increases. Additionally, alcohol consumption and age were identified as significant predictors of infidelity, with notable country-specific variations. No significant associations were found between infidelity and other variables such as comorbidities affecting erectile function, sexual activity frequency, or suspected hypogonadism, measured using the AMS questionnaire.

Wright, Paul J.; Herbenick, Debby

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2457436pmid: 39943693

Abstract The Supreme Court will soon hear oral arguments challenging a state law requiring pornographic websites to formally verify the age of site visitors. Prior studies have examined public opinion toward pornography regulation in the United States, but we are aware of no study that has assessed attitudes toward-age verification akin to the kind to be considered by The Supreme Court. This Letter reports data on age-verification attitudes and correlates among U.S. adults, parents, and adolescents. Results suggested that all three groups are more likely to support age-verification than to oppose it. Nonetheless, there was also substantial attitudinal variability in all three groups. Possible explanations for these differences are proposed and the need for extensive follow up studies is emphasized.

Herbenick, Debby; Fu, Tsung-chieh; Carver, Dasha N.; Brandenburg, Dakota; Balle, Mary; Eastman-Mueller, Heather

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2025.2458173pmid: 39885760

Abstract Rough sex has become prevalent among young adults, yet little is known about the prevalence of consensual non-consent (CNC)—which is often enacted as role-playing sexual assault—or the correlates of either sexual choking or CNC. In a U.S. college campus probability survey, we assessed the prevalence and correlates of choking and CNC. More women (45%) and gender diverse participants (61%) had ever been choked than men (25%). Also, 10.0% of students had ever engaged in CNC, with no significant gender differences. Both choking and CNC were related to alcohol use and to a history of partner violence.

Saji, Dr. Rincy

doi: 10.1080/0092623X.2024.2444036pmid: N/A