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The stepwise development of an interactive web-based sex education programme for subfertile couples: the Pleasure &
F Dreischor1, E T M Laan2, S Apers3
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Human Reproduction (Oxford, England)
|July 11, 2020
Summary
A new web-based program, Pleasure & Pregnancy, was developed to improve sexual functioning and increase natural pregnancy rates in subfertile couples undergoing expectant management. Its effectiveness requires further demonstration through an ongoing randomized controlled trial.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Sexual Health
- Digital Health Interventions
Background:
- Subfertile couples advised expectant management face challenges with adherence due to a preference for active approaches.
- Subfertility is a known risk factor for decreased sexual functioning, impacting couples' well-being.
- Existing guidelines recommend expectant management for at least six months for unexplained subfertility with good natural conception chances.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a web-based sex education program tailored to the needs of subfertile couples undergoing expectant management.
- To enhance couples' sexual functioning and, consequently, improve their chances of natural conception.
- To address the psychological and practical challenges associated with prolonged expectant management.
Main Methods:
- The program was developed using the Medical Research Council's (MRC) framework, involving literature reviews and expert consensus.
- An interdisciplinary panel of sexologists, gynecologists, and midwife-researchers contributed to program design.
- In-depth interviews with 12 subfertile couples informed the program's content and delivery, focusing on their specific needs and challenges.
Main Results:
- The 'Pleasure & Pregnancy' program integrates psychosexual education, couple communication, mindfulness, and sensate focus exercises.
- It includes information on conception biology and peer support to enhance acceptability and engagement.
- The program's development followed a rigorous, multi-step process, including modeling for an ongoing randomized controlled trial (RCT).
Conclusions:
- The developed web-based program, 'Pleasure & Pregnancy,' addresses identified needs of subfertile couples.
- The program's design is theoretically sound for improving sexual functioning and natural pregnancy rates.
- Further research via an ongoing RCT is necessary to confirm the program's efficacy, acceptability, and cost-effectiveness.