Children with Trans Parents: Parent-Child Relationship Quality and Psychological Well-being.

Objective. Families with trans parents are an increasingly visible family form, yet little is known about parenting and child outcomes in these families. This exploratory study offers the first quantitative assessment of parent-child relationship quality and child socio-emotional and behavioral adjustment in families with a self-identified trans parent with school-aged children. Design. A sample of 35 families (37 trans parents, 13 partners, and 25 children aged 8-18 years) was recruited primarily through social media. Parents, children, and teachers were administered a range of standardized interview and questionnaire assessments of parent-child relationship quality, quality of parenting, psychological adjustment, and gender-related minority stress. Results. Parents and children had good quality relationships, as assessed by both parents and children, and children showed good psychological adjustment. Child age at the time the parent communicated their gender identity to the child was unrelated to child outcomes. Conclusions. Parents and children in trans parent families had good quality relationships and children showed good psychological adjustment. The findings of this exploratory study challenge commonly held concerns about the potentially negative effects on children of growing up with a trans parent.

Bibliotherapy for Sexual Dysfunctions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

AIM: The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of bibliotherapy for sexual dysfunctions, when compared with no treatment and compared with other interventions. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO were searched from 1970 to January 2020. Selection criteria were randomized controlled trials evaluating assisted or unassisted bibliotherapy for all types of sexual dysfunctions compared with no treatment (wait list or placebo) or with other psychological interventions. Bibliotherapy is defined as psychological treatment using printed instruction to be used by the individual or couple suffering from sexual dysfunction. Primary outcome measures were male and female sexual functioning level and continuation/remission of sexual dysfunction. Secondary outcomes were sexual satisfaction and dropout rate. Sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction were self-reported by participants using validated questionnaires. RESULTS: Fifteen randomized controlled trials with a total of 1,113 participants (781 women; 332 men) met inclusion criteria. Compared with no treatment, unassisted bibliotherapy resulted in larger proportions of female participants reporting remission of sexual dysfunction, and sexual satisfaction was higher in treated participants, both female and male participants. Compared with no treatment, assisted bibliotherapy had significant positive effects on female sexual functioning; no effects on male sexual functioning were found. Results of unassisted and assisted bibliotherapy did not differ from those of other intervention types on any outcome. Throughout, no differences between study conditions were found regarding dropout rates. The certainty of the evidence for all outcomes was rated as very low. CONCLUSION: We found indications of positive effects of bibliotherapy for sexual dysfunctions. Across studies, more significant effects were found for women than for men. However, owing to limitations in the study designs and imprecision of the findings, we were unable to draw firm conclusions about the use of bibliotherapy for sexual dysfunction. More high quality and larger trials are needed. Relevant outcome measures for future studies should be defined as well as unified grading systems to measure these endpoints. In addition, future studies should report on treatment acceptability and adherence. van Lankveld JJDM, van de Wetering FT, Wylie, K et al. Bibliotherapy for Sexual Dysfunctions: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sex Med 2021;18:582-614.

A Biopsychosocial Model for the Counseling of Hormonal Contraceptives: A Review of the Psychological, Relational, Sexual, and Cultural Elements Involved in the Choice of Contraceptive Method.

INTRODUCTION: Hormonal contraceptives are among the most popular contraceptives used by women worldwide. Long-term adherence may vary significantly among users because of fear of side effects, unhealthy habits, and lack of knowledge, despite their proven effectiveness. AIM: To analyze the psychological, relational, sexual, and cultural factors associated with choice and use of hormonal contraceptives. We highlight the importance of a biopsychosocial approach to contraceptive counseling. METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted in September 2018. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: 99 articles published in Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, EBSCO, and the Cochrane Library about counseling to hormonal contraception and related biopsychosocial factors were reviewed. RESULTS: In the current work, we have analyzed a broad range of factors involved in the contraceptive choice among psychological, relational, sexual, and cultural spheres under the umbrella of the biopsychosocial model. The literature has highlighted that counseling provided by a specialized health care professional may help women in selecting a contraceptive method that best suits their personal needs and lifestyles, maximizing compliance and well-being. CONCLUSION: The importance of psychological, relational, sexual and cultural aspects involved in the selection of a contraceptive should be acknowledged by health care professionals and addressed during individualized counseling to ensure that the option selected and offered is tailored to the personal preferences, lifestyle, and practices of each woman. Nimbi FM, Rossi R, Tripodi F, et al. A Biopsychosocial Model for the Counseling of Hormonal Contraceptives: A Review of the Psychological, Relational, Sexual, and Cultural Elements Involved in the Choice of Contraceptive Method. Sex Med Rev 2019;7:587-596.

British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on the Management of Erectile Dysfunction in Men-2017.

BACKGROUND: This is an update of the 2008 British Society for Sexual Medicine (BSSM) guidelines. AIM: To provide up-to-date guidance for U.K. (and international) health care professionals managing male sexual dysfunction. METHODS: Source information was obtained from peer-reviewed articles, meetings, and presentations. A search of Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Reviews was performed, covering the search terms "hypogonadism," "eugonadal or hypogonadism or hypogonadal or gonadal," and "low or lower testosterone," starting from 2009 with a cut-off date of September 2017. OUTCOMES: We offer evidence-based statements and recommendations for clinicians. RESULTS: Expert guidance for health care professionals managing male sexual dysfunction is included. CLINICAL TRANSLATION: Current U.K. management has been largely influenced by non-evidence guidance from National Health Service departments, largely based on providing access to care limited by resources. The 2008 BSSM guidelines to date have been widely quoted in U.K. policy decision making. CONCLUSIONS: There is now overwhelming evidence that erectile dysfunction is strongly associated with cardiovascular disease, such that newly presenting patients should be thoroughly evaluated for cardiovascular and endocrine risk factors, which should be managed accordingly. Measurement of fasting serum glucose, lipid profile, and morning total testosterone should be considered mandatory in all newly presenting patients. Patients attending their primary care physician with chronic cardiovascular disease should be asked about erectile problems. There can no longer be an excuse for avoiding discussions about sexual activity due to embarrassment. Hackett G, Kirby M, Wylie K, et al. British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on the Management of Erectile Dysfunction in Men-2017. J Sex Med 2018;15:430-457.

Caring for transgender people: looking beyond the hype.

This special issue of Sexual Health presents a collection of articles that addresses issues facing transgender individuals that are particularly challenging. Issues covered range from sexual health education in schools, the need for accurate epidemiological measurements, the perils of inaccurate diagnostic labels of transgender children, legal issues, the disproportionately high prevalence of HIV and sexually transmissible infections (STIs), and the role of primary care. We need to think critically, constructively and compassionately about transgender people. Particularly, we must look beyond the hype and objectively consider the evidence, without forgetting the people who are trying to cope with feelings that may be causing them great distress.

British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on Adult Testosterone Deficiency, With Statements for UK Practice.

BACKGROUND: Testosterone deficiency (TD) is an increasingly common problem with significant health implications, but its diagnosis and management can be challenging. AIM: To review the available literature on TD and provide evidence-based statements for UK clinical practice. METHODS: Evidence was derived from Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane searches on hypogonadism, testosterone (T) therapy, and cardiovascular safety from May 2005 to May 2015. Further searches continued until May 2017. OUTCOMES: To provide a guideline on diagnosing and managing TD, with levels of evidence and grades of recommendation, based on a critical review of the literature and consensus of the British Society of Sexual Medicine panel. RESULTS: 25 statements are provided, relating to 5 key areas: screening, diagnosis, initiating T therapy, benefits and risks of T therapy, and follow-up. 7 statements are supported by level 1, 8 by level 2, 5 by level 3, and 5 by level 4 evidence. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: To help guide UK practitioners on effectively diagnosing and managing primary and age-related TD. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: A large amount of literature was carefully sourced and reviewed, presenting the best evidence available at the time. However, some statements provided are based on poor-quality evidence. This is a rapidly evolving area of research and recommendations are subject to change. Guidelines can never replace clinical expertise when making treatment decisions for individual patients, but rather help to focus decisions and take personal values and preferences and individual circumstances into account. Many issues remain controversial, but in the meantime, clinicians need to manage patient needs and clinical expectations armed with the best clinical evidence and the multidisciplinary expert opinion available. CONCLUSION: Improving the diagnosis and management of TD in adult men should provide somatic, sexual, and psychological benefits and subsequent improvements in quality of life. Hackett G, Kirby M, Edwards D, et al. British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on Adult Testosterone Deficiency, With Statements for UK Practice. J Sex Med 2017;14:1504-1523.

Phosphodiesterase Type 5 Inhibitors for Premature Ejaculation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is) are prescribed off-label for the treatment of premature ejaculation (PE). OBJECTIVE: To systematically review the evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) for PDE5-Is in the management of PE. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION: Medline and other databases were searched through September 2015. Quality of RCTs was assessed. Intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) data were pooled in a meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS: Fifteen RCTs were included. The majority were of unclear methodological quality. Pooled IELT evidence suggests that PDE5-Is are significantly more effective than placebo (231 participants, p<0.00001), that there is no difference between PDE5-Is and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs; 405 participants, p=0.50), and that PDE5-Is combined with an SSRI are significantly more effective than SSRIs alone (521 participants, p=0.001); however, high levels of statistical heterogeneity are evident (I2 ≥ 40%). Single-RCT evidence suggests that sildenafil is significantly more effective than the squeeze technique, but both lidocaine gel and tramadol are significantly more effective than sildenafil. Sildenafil combined with behavioural therapy is significantly more effective than behavioural therapy alone. Sexual satisfaction and ejaculatory control appear to be better with PDE5-Is compared with placebo and with PDE5-Is combined with an SSRI compared with an SSRI alone. Adverse events are reported with both PDE5-Is and other agents. CONCLUSIONS: PDE5-Is are significantly more effective than placebo and PDE5-Is combined with an SSRI are significantly more effective than SSRIs alone at increasing IELT and improving other effectiveness outcomes; however, heterogeneity is evident across RCTs. The methodological quality of the majority of RCTs is unclear. PATIENT SUMMARY: We reviewed phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is) for treating premature ejaculation. We found evidence to suggest that PDE5-Is are effective compared with placebo and that PDE5-Is combined with an SSRI are more effective than an SSRI alone. Adverse events are reported with PDE5-Is and other agents; however, the quality of the evidence is uncertain. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number CRD42013005289.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Management of Premature Ejaculation: A Systematic Review.

INTRODUCTION: Premature ejaculation (PE) is defined as ejaculation within 1 minute (lifelong PE) or 3 minutes (acquired PE), inability to delay ejaculation, and negative personal consequences. Management includes behavioral and pharmacologic approaches. AIM: To systematically review effectiveness, safety, and robustness of evidence for complementary and alternative medicine in managing PE. METHODS: Nine databases including Medline were searched through September 2015. Randomized controlled trials evaluating complementary and alternative medicine for PE were included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Studies were included if they reported on intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) and/or another validated PE measurement. Adverse effects were summarized. RESULTS: Ten randomized controlled trials were included. Two assessed acupuncture, five assessed Chinese herbal medicine, one assessed Ayurvedic herbal medicine, and two assessed topical "severance secret" cream. Risk of bias was unclear in all studies because of unclear allocation concealment or blinding, and only five studies reported stopwatch-measured IELT. Acupuncture slightly increased IELT over placebo in one study (mean difference [MD] = 0.55 minute, P = .001). In another study, Ayurvedic herbal medicine slightly increased IELT over placebo (MD = 0.80 minute, P = .001). Topical severance secret cream increased IELT over placebo in two studies (MD = 8.60 minutes, P < .001), although inclusion criteria were broad (IELT < 3 minutes). Three studies comparing Chinese herbal medicine with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) favored SSRIs (MD = 1.01 minutes, P = .02). However, combination treatment with Chinese medicine plus SSRIs improved IELT over SSRIs alone (two studies; MD = 1.92 minutes, P < .00001) and over Chinese medicine alone (two studies; MD = 2.52 minutes, P < .00001). Adverse effects were not consistently assessed but where reported were generally mild. CONCLUSION: There is preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, Ayurvedic herbal medicine, and topical severance secret cream in improving IELT and other outcomes. However, results are based on clinically heterogeneous studies of unclear quality. There are sparse data on adverse effects or potential for drug interactions. Further well-conducted randomized controlled trials would be valuable.

Transgender people: health at the margins of society.

In this paper we examine the social and legal conditions in which many transgender people (often called trans people) live, and the medical perspectives that frame the provision of health care for transgender people across much of the world. Modern research shows much higher numbers of transgender people than were apparent in earlier clinic-based studies, as well as biological factors associated with gender incongruence. We examine research showing that many transgender people live on the margins of society, facing stigma, discrimination, exclusion, violence, and poor health. They often experience difficulties accessing appropriate health care, whether specific to their gender needs or more general in nature. Some governments are taking steps to address human rights issues and provide better legal protection for transgender people, but this action is by no means universal. The mental illness perspective that currently frames health-care provision for transgender people across much of the world is under scrutiny. The WHO diagnostic manual may soon abandon its current classification of transgender people as mentally disordered. Debate exists as to whether there should be a diagnosis of any sort for transgender children below the age of puberty.

Serving transgender people: clinical care considerations and service delivery models in transgender health.

The World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) standards of care for transsexual, transgender, and gender non-conforming people (version 7) represent international normative standards for clinical care for these populations. Standards for optimal individual clinical care are consistent around the world, although the implementation of services for transgender populations will depend on health system infrastructure and sociocultural contexts. Some clinical services for transgender people, including gender-affirming surgery, are best delivered in the context of more specialised facilities; however, the majority of health-care needs can be delivered by a primary care practitioner. Across high-income and low-income settings alike, there often remains a dearth of educational programming for health-care professionals in transgender health, although the best evidence supports introducing modules on transgender health early during clinical education of clinicians and allied health professionals. While these challenges remain, we review the increasing evidence and examples of the defined roles of the mental health professional in transgender health-care decisions, effective models of health service provision, and available surgical interventions for transgender people.

Undergraduate Training in Human Sexuality-Evaluation of the Impact on Medical Doctors' Practice Ten Years After Graduation.

INTRODUCTION: It has been suggested that an indicator of a doctor's ability to assess patients' sexual function relates to the level of earlier training. The amount and quality of training the doctor receives at the undergraduate level and beyond could contribute to the doctor's confidence and competence. AIMS: To evaluate whether doctors found that the teaching in human sexuality received at medical school was sufficient for their future practice and whether their chosen medical specialty and exposure to issues related to sexual health affected this opinion. METHODS: One hundred seventy doctors maintaining contact with the University of Sheffield Medical School Alumni Office after qualifying in 2004 were sent self-completion postal questionnaires. Space was allocated for supplementary comments to their answers. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Self-completion postal questionnaire. RESULTS: Although the response rate was low, there appeared to be an impact of the teaching of human sexuality on the clinical practice of doctors. More than two-thirds of respondents rated the teaching as useful and more than 70% felt more confident in diagnosing and managing male and female sexual issues. CONCLUSION: The results show a link between the undergraduate teaching of sexual medicine and education and a subsequent proactive approach to sexuality issues; unfortunately, the study does not provide any information about the level of skills or ability in this field of medicine. We have confirmed that the Sheffield model might be suitable for teaching sexual medicine issues in the United Kingdom but cannot confirm that the current format is suitable for international undergraduate audiences. Future study could include other medical schools and a comparison of sexual medicine practice among physicians who received undergraduate medical education and overall numbers could be increased to compare current practice with the number of hours of sexual medicine education as a key parameter.

Psychological and Interpersonal Dimensions of Sexual Function and Dysfunction.

INTRODUCTION: Psychological, interpersonal, and sociocultural factors play a significant role in making one vulnerable to developing a sexual concern, in triggering the onset of a sexual difficulty, and in maintaining sexual dysfunction in the long term. AIM: To focus on psychological and interpersonal aspects of sexual functioning in women and men after a critical review of the literature from 2010 to the present. METHODS: This report is part 1 of 2 of our collaborative work during the 2015 International Consultation on Sexual Medicine for Committee 2. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Systematic review of the literature with a focus on publications since 2010. RESULTS: Our work as sexual medicine clinicians is essentially transdisciplinary, which involves not only the collaboration of multidisciplinary professionals but also the integration and application of new knowledge and evaluation and subsequent revision of our practices to ensure the highest level of care provided. There is scant literature on gender non-conforming children and adolescents to clarify specific developmental factors that shape the development of gender identity, orientation, and sexuality. Conversely, studies consistently have demonstrated the interdependence of sexual function between partners, with dysfunction in one partner often contributing to problems in sexual functioning and/or sexual satisfaction for the other. We recommend that clinicians explore attachment styles of patients, childhood experiences (including sexual abuse), onset of sexual activity, personality, cognitive schemas, infertility concerns, and sexual expectations. Assessment of depression, anxiety, stress, substance use and post-traumatic stress (and their medical treatments) should be carried out as part of the initial evaluation. Clinicians should attempt to ascertain whether the anxiety and/or depression is a consequence or a cause of the sexual complaint, and treatment should be administered accordingly. Cognitive distraction is a significant contributor to sexual response problems in men and women and is observed more consistently for genital arousal than for subjective arousal. Assessment of physical and mental illnesses that commonly occur in later life should be included as part of the initial evaluation in middle-aged and older persons presenting with sexual complaints. Menopausal status has an independent effect on reported changes in sex life and difficulties with intercourse. There is strong support for the use of psychological treatment for sexual desire and orgasm difficulties in women (but not in men). Combination therapies should be provided to men, whenever possible. CONCLUSION: Overall, research strongly supports the routine clinical investigation of psychological factors, partner-related factors, context, and life stressors. A biopsychosocial model to understand how these factors predispose to sexual dysfunction is recommended.

Ethical and Sociocultural Aspects of Sexual Function and Dysfunction in Both Sexes.

AIMS: This study aimed to highlight the salient sociocultural factors contributing to sexual health and dysfunction and to offer recommendations for culturally sensitive clinical management and research as well for an ethically sound sexual health care, counseling and medical decision-making. BACKGROUND: There are limited data on the impact of sociocultural factors on male and female sexual function as well as on ethical principles to follow when clinical care falls outside of traditional realms of medically indicated interventions. METHODS: This study reviewed the current literature on sociocultural and ethical considerations with regard to male and female sexual dysfunction as well as cultural and cosmetic female and male genital modification procedures. RESULTS: It is recommended that clinicians evaluate their patients and their partners in the context of culture and assess distressing sexual symptoms regardless of whether they are a recognized dysfunction. Both clinicians and researchers should develop culturally sensitive assessment skills and instruments. There are a number of practices with complex ethical issues (eg, female genital cutting, female and male cosmetic genital surgery). Future International Committee of Sexual Medicine meetings should seek to develop guidelines and associated recommendations for a separate, broader chapter on ethics.

Relationship between self-discrepancy and worries about penis size in men with body dysmorphic disorder.

We explored self-discrepancy in men with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) concerned about penis size, men without BDD but anxious about penis size, and controls. Men with BDD (n=26) were compared to those with small penis anxiety (SPA; n=31) and controls (n=33), objectively (by measuring) and investigating self-discrepancy: actual size, ideal size, and size they felt they should be according to self and other. Most men under-estimated their penis size, with the BDD group showing the greatest discrepancy between perceived and ideal size. The SPA group showed a larger discrepancy than controls. This was replicated for the perceptions of others, suggesting the BDD group internalised the belief that they should have a larger penis size. There was a significant correlation between symptoms of BDD and this discrepancy. This self-actual and self-ideal/self-should discrepancy and the role of comparing could be targeted in therapy.

Topical anaesthetics for premature ejaculation: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Eutectic Mixture of Local Anaesthetics (EMLA) is recommended for use off-label as a treatment for premature ejaculation (PE). Other topical anaesthetics are available, some of which have been evaluated against oral treatments. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) for topical anaesthetics in the management of PE. Bibliographic databases including MEDLINE were searched to August 2014. The primary outcome was intra-vaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT). Methodological quality of RCTs was assessed. IELT and other outcomes were pooled across RCTs in a meta-analysis. Between-trial heterogeneity was assessed. Nine RCTs were included. Seven were of unclear methodological quality. Pooled evidence (two RCTs, 43 participants) suggests that EMLA is significantly more effective than placebo at increasing IELT (P<0.00001). Individual RCT evidence also suggests that Topical Eutectic-like Mixture for Premature Ejaculation (TEMPE) spray and lidocaine gel are both significantly more effective than placebo (P=0.003; P<0.00001); and lidocaine gel is significantly more effective than sildenafil or paroxetine (P=0.01; P=0.0001). TEMPE spray is associated with significantly more adverse events than placebo (P=0.003). More systemic adverse events are reported with tramadol, sildenafil and paroxetine than with lidocaine gel. Diverse methods of assessing sexual satisfaction and ejaculatory control with topical anaesthetics are reported and evidence is conflicting. Topical anaesthetics appear more effective than placebo, paroxetine and sildenafil at increasing IELT in men with PE. However, the methodological quality of the existing RCT evidence base is uncertain.

Sexual Functioning and Behavior of Men with Body Dysmorphic Disorder Concerning Penis Size Compared with Men Anxious about Penis Size and with Controls: A Cohort Study.

INTRODUCTION: Little is known about the sexual functioning and behavior of men anxious about the size of their penis and the means that they might use to try to alter the size of their penis. AIM: To compare sexual functioning and behavior in men with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) concerning penis size and in men with small penis anxiety (SPA without BDD) and in a control group of men who do not have any concerns. METHODS: An opportunistic sample of 90 men from the community were recruited and divided into three groups: BDD (n = 26); SPA (n = 31) and controls (n = 33). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The Index of Erectile Function (IEF), sexual identity and history; and interventions to alter the size of their penis. RESULTS: Men with BDD compared with controls had reduced erectile dysfunction, orgasmic function, intercourse satisfaction and overall satisfaction on the IEF. Men with SPA compared with controls had reduced intercourse satisfaction. There were no differences in sexual desire, the frequency of intercourse or masturbation across any of the three groups. Men with BDD and SPA were more likely than the controls to attempt to alter the shape or size of their penis (for example jelqing, vacuum pumps or stretching devices) with poor reported success. CONCLUSION: Men with BDD are more likely to have erectile dysfunction and less satisfaction with intercourse than controls but maintain their libido. Further research is required to develop and evaluate a psychological intervention for such men with adequate outcome measures.

Behavioral Therapies for Management of Premature Ejaculation: A Systematic Review.

INTRODUCTION: Premature ejaculation (PE) is defined by short ejaculatory latency and inability to delay ejaculation causing distress. Management may involve behavioral and/or pharmacological approaches. AIM: To systematically review the randomized controlled trial (RCT) evidence for behavioral therapies in the management of PE. METHODS: Nine databases including MEDLINE were searched up to August 2014. Included RCTs compared behavioral therapy against waitlist control or another therapy, or behavioral plus drug therapy against drug treatment alone. [Correction added on 10 September 2015, after first online publication: Search period has been amended from August 2013 to August 2014.]. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT), sexual satisfaction, ejaculatory control, and anxiety and adverse effects. RESULTS: Ten RCTs (521 participants) were included. Overall risk of bias was unclear. All studies assessed physical techniques, including squeeze and stop-start, sensate focus, stimulation device, and pelvic floor rehabilitation. Only one RCT included a psychotherapeutic approach (combined with stop-start and drug treatment). Four trials compared behavioral therapies against waitlist control, of which two (involving squeeze, stop-start, and sensate focus) reported IELT differences of 7-9 minutes, whereas two (web-based sensate focus, stimulation device) reported no difference in ejaculatory latency posttreatment. For other outcomes (sexual satisfaction, desire, and self-confidence), some waitlist comparisons significantly favored behavioral therapy, whereas others were not significant. Three trials favored combined behavioral and drug treatment over drug treatment alone, with small but significant differences in IELT (0.5-1 minute) and significantly better results on other outcomes (sexual satisfaction, ejaculatory control, and anxiety). Direct comparisons of behavioral therapy vs. drug treatment gave mixed results, mostly either favoring drug treatment or showing no significant difference. No adverse effects were reported, though safety data were limited. CONCLUSIONS: There is limited evidence that physical behavioral techniques for PE improve IELT and other outcomes over waitlist and that behavioral therapies combined with drug treatments give better outcomes than drug treatments alone. Further RCTs are required to assess psychotherapeutic approaches to PE.

Sex drive and sexual desire.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Loss of sexual desire is increasingly recognized as a consequence of many disease processes, and one that can have a significant negative impact on quality of life. This review explores the biological and psychological aspects of desire, as well as the aetiology and therapeutic options for loss of desire. RECENT FINDINGS: Discoveries have been made in terms of the physiology of desire in men, in that it is affected by estradiol as well as testosterone. It has also been shown that desire is less gender specific in androphilic women than in androphilic men and gynaephilic men and women. Fatigue has been described as the most common self-reported cause of loss of desire, with communication as the most common method for addressing this. In men, a clear distinction has been shown between disorders of arousal and disorders of desire, suggesting that they should remain as separate conditions in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria. Loss of desire has been proven to be a significant consequence of diabetes, multiple sclerosis and polycystic ovary syndrome and can occur as a side-effect of statins and 5α-reductase inhibitors. Testosterone therapy may be an effective treatment for loss of desire in both men and women, and is safe in the treatment of men who have been treated for prostate cancer. It also has a significant impact on desire when used in the treatment of individuals with gender dysphoria. Nonhormonal treatments including flibanserin and new methods of therapy may also be effective. SUMMARY: Loss of desire is underrecognized as a symptom of disease or as a complaint in its own right. As further developments in treatment options, both therapies based and pharmacological, are made, it is increasingly important that clinicians enquire about sexual dysfunction, including loss of desire, at every consultation.