Using the “Good Enough Sex” Model to Treat Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder
Sexual desire is important for healthy sexual relationships, but many women experience female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD). FSIAD is a condition characterized by a decrease or absence of sexual desire and arousal in women during sexual activities, often leading to distress and dissatisfaction. Factors contributing to FSIAD include biological, psychological, and contextual aspects.
This condition is the most common sexual complaint among women, affecting individuals of various age groups. Treatment typically involves therapy, as medications may have limited effectiveness and side effects. The “good enough sex” (GES) model prioritizes pleasure and intimacy over performance in addressing FSIAD.
A recent study study examined how counseling based on the GES model, especially with the involvement of partners, could impact women’s sexual health. The counseling sessions were conducted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
This randomized controlled trial was completed in Iran from January to December 2021, where women with FSIAD were recruited through social media advertisements and underwent screening by a clinician. Participants completed an online questionnaire anonymously.
Inclusion criteria included meeting DSM-5 criteria for FSIAD, being aged 18 to menopause, and having spouses willing to attend counseling. Once the participants completed a pretest on their symptoms, they were randomly assigned to either individual or couples’ counseling sessions focusing on the 12 dimensions of the GES model. Some examples of GES dimensions are: “Relaxation is the foundation for pleasure and function” and “Pleasure is as important as function.” The participants attended weekly online sessions, and a posttest was conducted three months after counseling.
Information was gathered using a demographic survey and six standard questionnaires aimed at evaluating different aspects of sexual well-being. These surveys covered areas such as sexual desire, satisfaction, function, distress, communication, and beliefs related to sexuality. Participants also reported on the frequency of sexual activity through a single question.
Ultimately, 36 women from group A (individual counseling sessions) and 33 from group B (couples’ counseling sessions) completed the trial. There were no significant differences in demographics or main variables between the groups, and the average age was 34.3 years, with an average marriage duration of 10.4 years.
Both groups experienced improvements in sexual function, satisfaction, communication, and reduced distress. The participants in group B, where spouses attended counseling, showed higher sexual communication quality and frequency of intercourse compared to those in group A. Overall, counseling based on the GES model positively impacted sexual health variables for women with FSIAD.
While both groups receiving counseling showed significant improvements in sexual desire, satisfaction, function, distress, communication, and frequency of intercourse, notably, the presence of spouses in counseling slightly enhanced outcomes. This held true particularly in frequency of intercourse measure.
Since the GES model prioritizes intimacy and realistic expectations, it fosters healthy sexual habits and motivation. The online counseling sessions proved effective, offering convenience, accessibility, and privacy. Although the presence of spouses in counseling sessions yielded favorable outcomes, significant improvements were observed even when women attended alone. This suggests promising results for treating FSIAD, particularly in societies where male participation in sexual therapy is uncommon.
For more information on this topic, please read these publications from the ISSM Journals: The Journal of Sexual Medicine, Sexual Medicine Reviews, and Sexual Medicine Open Access:
Female Sexual Arousal Disorders
References:
Farahi, Z., HashemZadeh, M., & Farnam, F. (2024). Sexual counseling for female sexual interest/arousal disorders: A randomized controlled trial based on the "good enough sex" model. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 21(2), 153–162. https://doi.org/10.1093/jsxmed/qdad168
You may also be interested in...
Other Popular Articles
What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?
The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.
What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?
Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.
What Is the Average Penis Size?
If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.
What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?
Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.
The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive
You may have heard references to “being sex-positive” or “the sex-positivity movement” in popular culture. Various celebrities have brought attention to this movement by speaking out about their beliefs and personal experiences regarding sexuality, sexual health, body positivity, “slut-shaming,” and sexual assault.
Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.