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Sexual disorders in infertile couples: an update
1Institute of Medical Psychology, Centre for Psychosocial Medicine, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany. tewes.wischmann@med.uni-heidelberg.de
Current Opinion in Obstetrics & Gynecology
|April 9, 2013
Summary
This review found inconsistent results and low response rates in studies on sexual disorders in infertile couples. More research is needed to address methodological issues and include infertile men.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Sexual Health
- Infertility Research
Background:
- Sexual dysfunction is a concern for infertile couples.
- Existing literature on this topic is limited and inconsistent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review medical literature from 2011-2012 concerning sexual disorders in infertile couples.
- To identify trends and limitations in current research.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published articles.
- Analysis of studies focusing on sexual health in infertile populations.
Main Results:
- Ten articles were identified for review.
- Significant inconsistencies were found in the results.
- Low response rates were reported across the studies.
Conclusions:
- Methodological limitations, including divergent samples and assessment tools, prevent valid conclusions.
- Low or unknown responder rates compromise the reliability of findings.
- Further research is required to address these shortcomings, with a notable underrepresentation of studies on infertile men's sexuality.
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