The prevalence of sexual activity, and sexual dysfunction and behaviours in postmenopausal woman in Poland.

INTRODUCTION: Despite the aging of the population, there is limited data available about sexual life and behaviours among of postmenopausal and late postmenopausal women. Aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of sexual dysfunction, behaviours, and preferences in the Polish population in 2015. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This observational survey study involved 538 women, of whom 220 were over 50 years old. The main focus was on the differences and changes between older age groups, mainly 50-59 years and over 60 years. RESULTS: For 80.9% of the women above 50 years old, sex played at least a moderately important role in life. Sex was definitely important and very important for 40.45% of them. Most women over 50 years old (65.5%) were sexually active. Regardless of age, the respondents were more likely to have sexual intercourse several times a month. Less than half of the women over 50 years old (42.7%) realised their sexual fantasies. Women in the group of 50-59 years old statistically less often than younger women declared that the frequency of intercourse they had was too small. There was a statistical tendency showing that women up to 49 years old declared more sexual problems than older women. Women over 50 years old reported fewer problems in comparison to younger women, e.g. less often they claimed that sex is not pleasurable (p = 0.064). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of sexual activity declines with age, yet a substantial number of woman engage in vaginal intercourse, oral sex, and masturbation even past the seventh decade of life.

Sexuality in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare sexual function and sexual response, attitude toward sexuality and relationships with sexual partners in women diagnosed with PCOS and healthy controls. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study included 73 women (aged 23-42 years) diagnosed with PCOS using the Rotterdam criteria and 45 healthy controls. All participants completed a questionnaire assessing socioepidemiological parameters and sexual behavior. Validated instruments were used to assess hirsutism (Ferriman-Gallwey Scale), mental health status (General Health Questionnaire 12 [GHQ 12]), sexuality (Sexuality Scale [SS], Sexual Awareness Questionnaire [SAQ], Multidimensional Sexuality Questionnaire [MSQ], Multidimensional Sexual Self-Concept Questionnaire [MSSCQ]), and sexual function (Polish version of the Mell-Krat Scale [SFK/K Scale]). RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in the importance of sexual activity in both groups. Mean scores for the SFK/K Scale, SS, SAQ, MSQ, and MSSQ were similar among women with PCOS and controls, regardless of age. Similarly sexual needs and reactions were perceived in the same way by both groups. In contrast, women with PCOS rated themselves negatively as sexual partners more frequently than controls. CONCLUSIONS: Sexual function and sexual response, attitude toward sexuality as well as relationships with sexual partners were similar in PCOS subjects and healthy women. However, changes in physical appearance typically associated with PCOS result in deterioration of sexual function. Therefore, it is recommended that all PCOS patients should be referred to a sexual medicine specialist for consultation.

[Children sexual abuse in Poland--study of 257 sexual offenders against minors]. / Wykorzystywanie seksualne dzieci w Polsce--analiza badan 257 sprawców, którzy popelnili przestepstwa seksualne wobec maloletnich.

INTRODUCTION: Obtaining objective data on sexual offenders against minors is difficult. In order to enhance the possibilities to prevent such crimes it is essential to determine factors that condition this kind of sexual behavior. AIM: The aim of the study was to prepare a multidimensional analysis of a profile of sexual offenders against minors. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A detailed analysis of documentation from forensic sexological, psychiatric and psychological examinations and information from the records of the proceedings concerning 257 perpetrators was performed by the authors. Information analyzed included demographic data, psychosocial background, psychosexual development, recent sexual activity, physical and mental health issues and information concerning accused sexual crime. RESULTS: The majority of the offenders had undisturbed family relations. However, subjects with sexual preference disorders perceived their parents' relationship as worse, reported more difficulties in educational process and in relation to teachers and peers. 5.4% of subjects experienced sexual abuse and 23.3% physical violence in their childhood. The majority reported no sexual dysfunction and had regular but rare sexual activity. 20.6% were diagnosed as having mental disorder and 36.8% were alcohol abusers. Almost 30% were under influence of alcohol or another substance during the crime. The majority had no sexual preference disorder. Definite pedophilia was found in 27% and traits of psychosexual immaturity in 23.1% of cases. There was no relationship between sexual preference disorders and psychiatric comorbidity, alcohol or substance abuse. The acts of sexual abuse comprised genital touching, vaginal or oral intercourse as well as exposing offender's or victim's body. These acts were typically against one child, planned, being aware of victim's age and using physical violence. CONCLUSIONS: The data from our research should be taken into account when planning therapeutic and preventive interventions.

[Verification of the effectiveness of the dietary supplementation in infertility treatment]. / Ocena skutecznosci suplementacji zywieniowej w terapii nieplodnosci.

UNLABELLED: Fertility problems are observed in a growing number of couples in many countries, including Poland. The treatment of infertile couple should be comprehensive and apart from medical procedures also other factors affecting fertility potential should be taken into account. There is increasing evidence that a properly balanced diet and/or administration of specifically composed supplements may increase the chances of conceiving both naturally as well as in result of assisted reproductive techniques. THE AIM OF STUDY: Preliminary verification of the effectiveness of vitamin preparation to improve the quality of semen and the number of pregnancies achieved. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In total 28 infertile couples were included to the study. Within 6 months from the start of diet supplementation seminological studies and the assessment of getting pregnant have been conducted. RESULTS: The consumption of vitamin and mineral ingredients improves sperm quality and increases pregnancy rate. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary supplement may help to conceive by increasing the number and improving sperm motility.

Mega Cisterna Magna (MCM) in a man with frotteurism symptoms - a case report. / Mega Cisterna Magna (MCM) u mezczyzny z objawami ocieractwa ­ opis przypadku.

Mega cistera magna (MCM) is a brain development abnormality that occurs in 1% of radiographic images. It occurs when the transverse dimension of the cerebellospinal reservoir is greater than 10 mm. It is the most important reservoir in the cranial cavity. From the front it is limited by the extended medulla, from the rear by the dura mater, and from the top by the cerebellum. Isolated anomalies in the structure of this brain region often do not cause any clinical symptoms. However, more and more attention is paid in research on the participation of the cerebellum in the regulation of cognitive and affective processes. These processes, in turn, may also be related to the regulation of sexual life. The aim of the study is to present the psychosexual functioning of a man diagnosed with MCM, who is suspected of having committed five sexual offenses. The existence of such a structure of the CNS in conjunction with the analysis of the interview, data from the case files and the results of sexological, psychological and psychiatric examinations, made it possible to evaluate the limitation of the respondent's ability to direct his conduct during the alleged acts, while maintaining the ability to recognize their significance.

Psychological gender of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: We compared women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to a control group with regard to intensity of hirsutism and psychological gender. DESIGN: Cohort study, 2005-2009. SETTING: Gynecological endocrinology clinic and gynecological practice, Silesian area, Poland. SAMPLE: 89 women aged 17-42 years with PCOS, in two groups (S1, S2) by age < or ≥31 years, and age-stratified controls of 45 healthy women. METHODS: We used the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ 12), Ferriman-Gallwey score and Psychological Gender Inventory, to assess masculinity and femininity through self-reported possession of socially desirable, stereotypical personality traits (masculine, feminine, androgynous, undifferentiated), supplemented by questions concerning social status (education, profession) and gynecological history. All questionnaires were anonymous and independently answered during clinic visits. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Influence of PCOS and concomitant hirsutism on psychological gender. RESULTS: Hirsutism (moderate or severe intensity) was observed in a considerably higher number of women from both PCOS groups compared with controls (S1: 49.0 vs. 20.0%, p < 0.05, S2: 41.9 vs. 16.7%, p < 0.05, respectively). Women ≥31 years with PCOS more often viewed themselves as sexually undifferentiated compared with controls (31.8 vs. 6.7%, p < 0.01), less likely to identify with a female gender scheme (18.2 vs. 33.3%), and more likely to see themselves as androgynous (50.0 vs. 40.9%). CONCLUSIONS: Women with PCOS have, depending on age and severity of disease, problems with psychological gender identification. Duration and severity of PCOS can negatively affect the self-image of patients, lead to a disturbed identification with the female-gender scheme and, associated with it, social roles.

Prevalence of sexual dysfunctions and associated risk factors in Poland.

Introduction: Many biological, psychological and sociocultural factors influence the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions and sexual behavior. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of sexual dysfunctions and sexual behaviors. Material and methods: The study was the third edition of a general population-based, cross sectional survey, evaluating sexual attitude, sexual behaviors within and outside relationships and type of sexual dysfunctions present in the Polish population. The survey consisted of 82 questions, grouped into five blocks that contained open- and closed-ended general questions, inquiries about early sexual contacts, sex life, relationships, sexual behaviors and preferences. A standard questionnaire was used to obtain data on age, education, marital status, religious beliefs, medical history, disabilities and other illnesses. A total of 1054 responders aged from 18 to over 70 years participated in the study. Risk factors and other causes contributing to certain sexual dysfunctions defined in the DSM-5 and in the available literature were analyzed. Results: In this research, 40% of women and 36.5% of men had at least one sexual dysfunction. Analysis of the total population showed that decreased sexual desire (29.0%), occasional climaxing (28.5%) and anorgasmia (21.0%) were the dysfunctions most frequently reported by women. In men, premature ejaculation (23%) and excessive sexual needs (16.3%) were most prevalent. Both men and women with arousal problems reported significantly more comorbid sexual dysfunctions (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Sexual dysfunctions are highly prevalent in the Polish population. Of note, it is alarming that only very few patients seek professional help when sexual problems occur.

Factors Affecting Sexual Function and Body Image of Early-Stage Breast Cancer Survivors in Poland: A Short-Term Observation.

INTRODUCTION: Knowing the important factors influencing sexual function and body image might facilitate the recovery process of breast cancer survivors. Surgery type, relationship quality, and partner support might be modified to create a space for psychosexual intervention. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This retrospective questionnaire-based study was performed on 128 women aged 18 to 65 years who were free of disease at time of study entry and who underwent surgical treatment for breast cancer. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria were used to assessed female sexual dysfunction (FSD). Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ) were used to measure sexual function, whereas the Body Image After Breast Cancer Questionnaire (BIBCQ) was used to assess body image. The support of the partner was evaluated by the Provisions of Social Relation Scale (PSRS). RESULTS: The median age of the studied respondents was 52.5 ± 10.1 years. FSD was diagnosed in 27.3% women. Lower physical satisfaction in relationship (odds ratio [OR] = 2.3), undergoing mastectomy (OR = 4.1) higher level of anxiety (OR = 4.2), and shorter duration of relationship (OR = 1.1) as well as not receiving adjuvant chemotherapy (F = 3.54), higher level of emotional satisfaction in relationship (F = 20.32), longer time after completion of oncologic treatment (F = 8.76), undergoing breast-conserving therapy (compared to mastectomy) (F = 13.21), and lower level of anxiety (F = 31,25) were important factors for the prevalence of FSD and positive body image, respectively. CONCLUSION: Type of surgery, time after completion of treatment, level of anxiety, adjuvant chemotherapy, partner support, and satisfying quality of relationship are important factors for sexual function, sexual quality of life, and body image in female breast cancer survivors.

A psychosexual follow-up study of patients with mixed or partial gonadal dysgenesis.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To provide late adolescent and young adult psychosexual follow-up information on a consecutive series of patients with either mixed or partial gonadal dysgenesis. SETTING: Children's Memorial Health Institute (Warsaw, Poland). PARTICIPANTS: 19 patients (age range, 17-26 years), 9 raised as females and 10 raised as males. MEASURES: Clinical interview and psychologic tests were used to evaluate gender identity, gender role, and sexual behavior. RESULTS: All patients raised as male had a normal male gender identity, displayed masculine gender role behavior in childhood, and had a heterosexual sexual orientation. Seven of the 10 male patients had experienced heterosexual intercourse. Two out of nine women did not identify with the female gender. The majority had masculine gender role interests in childhood. The female patients were significantly less likely to have experienced sexual activity with a partner than the male patients. CONCLUSION: Although gender identity differentiated largely in accordance with sex assignment or sex of rearing in our sample, the patients reared as female appeared to have poorer sexual adjustment than the males. Cultural factors may have impacted on this latter outcome.