This is a report of two studies examining the prevalence of sexual
dysfunction, and the role of psychological variables, including quality
of life, on sexual activity in patients at the start of outpatient cognitive-behavioral
therapy for pain management.
In Study 1, 151 patients with non-cancer pain, predominantly musculoskeletal,
completed a range of standardized questionnaires. Sexual dysfunction
was common, and more frequently reported by people with greater disability
and depression, shorter pain duration, and infrequent use of coping
self-statements. Study 2 was a pilot investigation (n=41) of the impact
of sexual dysfunction on quality of life. Although sexual dysfunction
was again commonly reported, respondents perceived it had less importance
in quality of life than did other factors.
The researchers conclude that sexual dysfunction is common in this
population and is predicted by psychological factors and pain duration.
However, other issues impact more significantly on quality of life.
Therapeutic approaches to sexual dysfunction in these patients might
best be focused on improving psychological factors, particularly depression
and coping skills. Kwan KS, Roberts LJ, Swalm DM. Adapted from Eur J
Pain. 2005 Dec;9(6):643-52. Epub 2005 Jan 22.
PMID 16246817
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=16246817&query_hl=2
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