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Sexual Self-Concept in Women with Disorders/Differences of Sex Development
Nita G M de Neve-Enthoven1, Nina Callens2, Maaike van Kuyk3
1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Erasmus Medical Center Rotterdam-Sophia Children's Hospital, Sh-1058, P.O. Box 2060, 3000 CB, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Archives of Sexual Behavior
|April 1, 2022
Summary
Women born with disorders or differences of sex development (DSD) experience sexual challenges, often linked to negative self-concept and body image. Cognitive behavioral counseling may improve sexual well-being in this population.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Endocrinology
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Women with disorders or differences of sex development (DSD) frequently report sexual difficulties, particularly after genital reconstructive surgery.
- Understanding the cognitions and emotions influencing sexuality is crucial for developing targeted interventions for DSD populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sexual self-concept, body image, and sexual functioning in women with DSD, examining the impact of genital surgery.
- To validate the Dutch translation of the Women's Sexual Self-Concept Scale and assess its psychometric properties.
Main Methods:
- The Women's Sexual Self-Concept Scale was translated into Dutch and psychometrically evaluated in a large sample of healthy women (N=589).
- A comparative study was conducted with women born with DSD (N=99) and a control group, assessing sexual self-concept, body image, and sexual functioning via anonymous web-based surveys.
Main Results:
- Women with DSD reported lower sexual interest, reduced sexual activity, more negative sexual cognitions/emotions, and greater dissatisfaction with genitalia compared to controls.
- A significant association was found between sexual self-concept and compromised sexual functioning and distress in women with DSD.
- Positive sexual self-concept, sexual activity, and relationship status correlated with improved sexual desire, arousal, and reduced distress.
Conclusions:
- Cognitions and emotions concerning sexual self-concept significantly influence sexual functioning in women with DSD.
- Cognitive behavioral counseling focusing on coping strategies and exploring individual sexual needs may be beneficial for women with DSD.
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