Marseille 2007
Marseille 2007
Abstract book
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Abstract #87  -  Sexual dysfunctions in homosexual men: prediction of problem occurrence from a bio-psychosocial model.
Session:
  6.52: Posters A (Poster) on Monday   in  Chaired by
Authors:
  Presenting Author:   Mr Tom Platteau - Institute of Tropical Medicine, Belgium
 
  Additional Authors:  Mr Jacques  van Lankveld, Mrs Christiana Noestlinger, Mr Filip Moerman,  
Aim:
Sexuality can be approached from a bio-psychosocial framework. This study looked at two questions: (1) which biological and psychosocial characteristics are different in homosexual men with and without sexual dysfunctions and (2) which factors of vulnerability predict the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions in these groups?
 
Method / Issue:
Several validated self-reported questionnaires (International Index of Erectile Function, Sexual Inhibition and Sexual Excitation Scales) were used in a cross-sectional study design with a control/comparison group. The outcome variable was sexual dysfunction. Variables were assessed on various levels of the bio-psychosocial model: biological factors were HIV seropositivity, viral load of people living with HIV and CD4 count of people living with HIV. Psychological factors were self-reported health and trait level of sexual excitation and sexual inhibition. The assessed social factors were relationship status and some selected socio-demographic variables. In order to determine predictive factors for the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions a significant regression model was built, which included self-reported health, sexual excitation and one type of sexual inhibition. This model could predict the development of sexual dysfunctions.
 
Results / Comments:
Eighty-two homosexual men responded, of which 46 were HIV-positive and 36 were HIV-negative. Eighteen respondents (22%) reported sexual dysfunctions, defined as self-reported sexual problems. The group with sexual dysfunctions differed significantly from the group without sexual dysfunctions with respect to sexual inhibition and relationship status. The regression model showed that self-reported health, sexual excitation and external sexual inhibition (fear of the consequences of sexual behavior) are predictive for self-reported sexual dysfunction.
 
Discussion:
The results call for a better recognition of sexual problems in the investigated target group. Further research on this matter is needed in order to confirm the results in larger populations and achieve a higher degree of generalization. A standard inquiry method on the characteristics of sexual problems during the clinical intake could be considered. This should also help clinicians find a way to address sexual related issues during consultation.
 
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