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Assessment of sexual functioning during the menstrual cycle
A H Clayton1, G J Clavet, E L McGarvey
1University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA. ahc8v@virginia.edu
Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy
|November 5, 1999
Summary
Premenstrual symptoms negatively impact sexual desire and activity. Women experience reduced sexual satisfaction and orgasm frequency during the late luteal phase compared to midcycle.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Human Sexuality
- Gynecology
Background:
- Premenstrual symptoms affect a significant number of women.
- The menstrual cycle is known to influence various physiological and psychological states.
- Understanding the impact on sexual functioning is crucial for women's health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between the menstrual cycle phases and sexual functioning in women with premenstrual symptoms.
- To assess how different phases of the menstrual cycle affect sexual desire, activity, and satisfaction.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 115 women with premenstrual symptom complaints.
- Utilized the Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ) for assessment.
- Women were assessed during different phases of their menstrual cycle, including late luteal and midcycle phases.
Main Results:
- Women assessed during the late luteal phase reported lower sexual desire and less frequent sexual activity.
- A subset of 24 women showed reduced orgasm frequency and satisfaction premenstrually compared to midcycle.
- These findings indicate a cyclical pattern in sexual functioning related to the menstrual cycle.
Conclusions:
- The late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle is associated with diminished sexual desire and activity.
- Premenstrual changes can negatively affect sexual satisfaction and orgasm quality.
- Further research can inform interventions to support sexual well-being throughout the menstrual cycle.
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