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Emotional labor, the act of suppressing or altering one's feelings to enhance another person's well-being, is predominantly performed by women, especially within intimate relationships. Despite its impact on well-being, research on its role in sexuality remains limited. We developed the Women's Sexual Emotional Labor Assessment (WOSELA), a 12-item scale based on themes identified by past qualitative studies. To ensure its reliability and validity, we conducted three studies with women partnered with men, as well as heterosexual single women from the UK and the USA (N = 831). Drawing on exploratory factor analysis in Study 1, four subscales were identified: faking orgasm, performing desire, tolerating discomfort or pain, and partner-referenced sexual satisfaction. Confirmatory factor analyses in Study 2 (pre-registered) provided support for the WOSELA in its current form. In Study 3 (pre-registered), we demonstrated the validity of the WOSELA by establishing significant negative correlations with sexual agency, sexual communication, and sexual pleasure. Our results further show that the WOSELA was not significantly related to positive-partner-oriented sexual responsiveness. The WOSELA offers a unique tool to explore the role of emotional labor in sustaining the pleasure gap, as well as in broader power dynamics within intimate relationships and its impact on women's well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People differ in their predispositions to value safety maintenance (i.e., disease prevention regulatory focus) or pleasure pursuit (i.e., pleasure promotion regulatory focus). Extending recent research, results of a cross-sectional study with participants living in Portugal and Spain (N = 770) showed that these individual differences resulted in a trade-off between potential health risks and pleasure rewards in sexual practices and experiences with casual partners. Specifically, people who were more focused on promotion (vs. prevention) reported riskier and more unrestricted sexual activities (more frequent condomless sex activities; more casual partners) and experienced more positive sexual outcomes (more sexual satisfaction; more positive and less negative affect related to condomless sex). This pattern of results remained the same after controlling for country differences, suggesting the robustness of our findings across different cultural contexts. Our study shows the complexity of sexual decisions and align with our reasoning that prevention-focused people tend to prioritize health safety, whereas promotion-focused people tend to prioritize sexual pleasure. Theoretical and applied implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Masturbation – self-sexual stimulation of the genitalia – literature is underdeveloped, especially in terms of non-Western samples. More importantly, there remains very little or no research about how masturbation as a sexual practice contributes to understanding the gender dynamics of sexual choices in Africa. Using the African feminist resistance framework of 'radical rudeness', developed by the Ugandan feminist Stella Nyanzi, this paper, through a scoping review of twenty-five studies, aims to review and synthesise the literature on masturbation discourse by identifying the socio-demographic dynamics of masturbators, their understanding of masturbation and its rationale, and the agentic and innovative ways of masturbation as reflected in existing works. The author argues that masturbation offers a space to experience one's own sexual pleasure, as they push for a conceptually nuanced viewpoint about African sex. The analysis thus makes a clarion call to rethink the sex discourse in order to better appreciate and promote the sexual diversity of Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Black women's collective wisdom has informed Black women's sexual development for decades. Yet, empirical collective wisdom regarding what is needed to reduce their experiences of sexual pain and enhance sexual pleasure has been omitted. This study fills this gap by centering the voices of Black women living in the Southern region of the USA who have experienced sexual difficulties. Methods: We used thematic analysis to find themes across n = 21 in-depth interviews with Black women living in the Southern USA who consented to participate in a mixed methods study focused on Black women's experiences of sexual pain and pleasure. We interviewed participants between January and March 2021. Results: There were five main themes: 1) Talk that talk, 2) On my mama and big mama, 3) Take me to church, 4) Put yourself first, and 5) What about the men? Conclusions: Findings of this study reveal a common desire among Black women who have experienced sexual pain to have safe spaces to talk about sexual health through multigenerational sister circles and in churches. Heterosexual participants also stressed the importance of sexuality education opportunities for Black men. Policy Implications: It is important to understand the systems of oppression that present obstacles to Black women's sexual development and sexual health knowledge acquisition. Equitable funding for Black women's sexual health programs, and using multiplatform approaches to reach multiple generations and center the voices of Black women, are crucial to advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractBlack women’s sexuality has historically been constrained by stereotypes and a discourse focused on risks rather than pleasure. Early Black women rappers initiated vital conversations about sexual pleasure, with contemporary Black women rappers continuing to challenge norms and define Black women’s sexualities. Grounded in Hip-Hop Feminism and Sexual Script Theory, this study explores how Black women interpret and find meaning in sexual pleasure-focused lyrics in Black women’s rap music and how these interpretations shape their sexual self-concepts and navigation of systemic oppression. Through semi-structured interviews with 20 Black women aged 20–42 years who frequently listen to Black women rappers, thematic and discourse analysis identified three key themes: (a) prioritising sexual pleasure as a means of self-empowerment; (b) practising assertiveness as a means to achieving sexual pleasure; and (c) celebrating the body as an act of sexual pleasure. Black women rappers’ unapologetic discussion of sexual pleasure empowers Black women to reclaim sexuality on their own terms, independent of dominant societal narratives. This study extends existing literature on Hip-Hop Feminism by demonstrating the transformative potential of culturally relevant media in fostering sex-positive attitudes and advocates for incorporating these messages into sexual health education for Black women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Media representations of sexuality can play a relevant role in the development of gender stereotypes and sexual learning processes. In the current pre-registered study, we examined the representation of sexuality in content on Netflix, a dominant force in global mass media consumption. We coded 271 mixed-gender sexual scenes across seven highly popular Netflix series for orgasm portrayal, depiction of sexual behaviors, including clitoral stimulation, and gendered sexual scripts (i.e., initiation, control, and expression of desires). Our results revealed a nuanced picture of women's sexual pleasure representation. Women's orgasms were depicted less frequently than men's, although orgasm portrayal was generally rare. Sexual behaviors were mostly limited to penile-vaginal intercourse, though cunnilingus was depicted more frequently than fellatio. Regarding gendered sexual scripts, women were portrayed as equally sexually agentic as men, initiating sexual encounters, taking control, and expressing their needs and desires. Our findings indicate that this content simultaneously reinforces and challenges gender stereotypes related to sexual experiences, highlighting the need for sexual educators to critically address the realism of mainstream media portrayals to foster a nuanced understanding of sexuality and pleasure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document provides a historical overview of sexology, tracing its origins in Germany in the early 20th century and its subsequent development in the United States. It highlights key figures, institutions, and events that shaped the field, emphasizing the interdisciplinary approach and advocacy for sexual reform. The text also discusses the impact of societal shifts, the role of Jewish sexologists, and the resurgence of sexology in the United States post-World War II. Additionally, it explores the field's evolution towards sexual health, rights, and pleasure, culminating in the issuance of declarations and collaborations with organizations like the WHO. The document concludes by addressing current challenges and the importance of advocacy efforts to advance sexual health and rights globally. [Extracted from the article]

Sexual assaults' effects on survivors' sexual pleasure have been well-documented in the literature. However, much of this research is quantitative in nature and focuses on the negative effects of assault on sexual satisfaction. The present study seeks to address a gap in the literature that has failed to ask survivors what they enjoy about having sex and the pleasure they derive from sex. Through a qualitative interview study of a diverse, community sample of sexual assault survivors, we identified several themes around survivors' sexual pleasure. Prior to the assault, survivors mentioned limited pleasure due to men not being interested in giving them sexual pleasure, but they also enjoyed the emotional connections felt during sex. Some survivors mentioned impacts on their ability to enjoy sex, but this was not universal in the sample. Finally, queer survivors mentioned feeling more sexual pleasure with women, and survivors found empowerment in exploring what they liked about having sex and sexual pleasure with current partners who supported them emotionally. We discuss the importance of a focus on the sexual pleasure of survivors from a sex-positive, rather than a "high risk", framework in future research, along with suggestions to improve sexual health interventions with survivors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gender-based inequities within patriarchy create barriers to women's sexual well-being. This study integrated empowerment theory with research on heterosexual women's sexuality to examine multiple factors related to sexual pleasure. An empowerment process is one mechanism through which less powerful individuals gain influence and power that results in increased opportunities to control decisions that affect their lives. Although psychologists have been studying empowerment for decades, sexual empowerment has been under-explored. In this study, 253 heterosexual undergraduate women completed a questionnaire assessing sexual empowerment dimensions, including critical consciousness about gender and sexuality, sexual subjectivity, sexual assertiveness, and sexual pleasure. Data were analysed with structural equation modelling. A mediated sexual empowerment process in which critical consciousness was indirectly related to sexual pleasure through two mediators, sexual subjectivity and sexual assertiveness, was supported. To the extent that women can reject heteronormative beliefs and conform less to patriarchal norms of sexual fidelity, they may be able to realise more sexual subjectivity, assertiveness, and pleasure. This study has implications for rights-based sexual education and pleasure-inclusive clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the ongoing debate surrounding the importance of orgasm and sexual pleasure in clinical contexts and the assessment of sexual quality of life. It delves into historical perspectives on female sexual dysfunctions and the evolution of views on pleasure, orgasm, and sexuality. The text emphasizes the need to shift from a quantitative model of sexual health to one that prioritizes pleasure, consent, and inclusivity, advocating for a more comprehensive understanding of human sexuality. The authors call for further research on sexual pleasure and the development of psychometric tools to measure pleasure, highlighting the potential for a more inclusive and pleasure-based approach to sexual health. [Extracted from the article]

Rupture of corpus luteum cyst from sexual pleasure is an uncommon event that has not been reported in our environment (Africa). The patient is a 30-year-old primiparous woman who developed severe lower abdominal pain thirty minutes after sex; the pain was unrelenting despite the use of over-the-counter analgesic drugs and local herbs. Twelve hours after sex, when the problem persisted and she complained of dizziness and weakness, she was rushed to the emergency room of our facility for medical treatment. An initial diagnosis of ruptured ectopic gestation was made. She had an emergency laparotomy with repair of the ruptured cyst and blood transfusion. Incisional biopsy was taken from the cyst and pathological examination revealed a ruptured corpus luteum cyst. She did well post-surgery and was discharged to follow up in the clinic on the third day after surgery. Ruptured corpus luteum cyst from sexual pleasure is a rare event. Thus, a high index of suspicion is necessary to elicit a history of sex, which patients are often unwilling to disclose.

The inclusion of pleasure in school-based sexuality education remains a controversial issue despite a long-standing body of scholarship which argues for its importance. While recent studies reveal sexual pleasure remains missing in school programmes, it appears to be in abundance in the Netflix series Sex Education. This paper examines the series as a potential source of learning about sexual pleasure and the types of messages it offers young people on this topic. It argues that Sex Education’s treatment of sexual pleasure differs from school-based programmes in the way it often disrupts dominant meanings of sex and sexuality. While schools typically take a risk-reduction approach to young people’s sexuality, Sex Education treats sexual pleasure as a legitimate, positive and commonplace pursuit which can be experienced through diverse practices and relationships. Much of what Sex Education is able to achieve in its treatment of sexual pleasure is attributable to the series being outside formal schooling and its deployment of tools associated with the televisual medium. Given the rise of regressive gender and sexual politics globally, programmes like Sex Education offer an increasingly important source of learning and counter narratives to politically conservative understandings of sex and sexuality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Rupture of corpus luteum cyst from sexual pleasure is an uncommon event that has not been reported in our environment (Africa). The patient is a 30-year-old primiparous woman who developed severe lower abdominal pain thirty minutes after sex; the pain was unrelenting despite the use of over-the-counter analgesic drugs and local herbs. Twelve hours after sex, when the problem persisted and she complained of dizziness and weakness, she was rushed to the emergency room of our facility for medical treatment. An initial diagnosis of ruptured ectopic gestation was made. She had an emergency laparotomy with repair of the ruptured cyst and blood transfusion. Incisional biopsy was taken from the cyst and pathological examination revealed a ruptured corpus luteum cyst. She did well post-surgery and was discharged to follow up in the clinic on the third day after surgery. Ruptured corpus luteum cyst from sexual pleasure is a rare event. Thus, a high index of suspicion is necessary to elicit a history of sex, which patients are often unwilling to disclose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although pleasure is a primary motivator for sexual activity, research into the mechanisms facilitating pleasurable sexual experiences is limited. The present research adopts a self-regulatory perspective on sexual pleasure, investigating individuals' capacity to shield hedonic activities from distracting thoughts (trait hedonic capacity) as a correlate of sexual pleasure and sexualized drug use. Study 1 (N = 247) demonstrates that young adults with higher trait hedonic capacity experience more sexual pleasure and are less prone to cognitive distraction during partnered sexual activities. Pre-registered Study 2 replicates these findings while accounting for demand effects (N = 182, n = 86). Expanding on these findings, pre-registered Study 3 (N = 903) shows that young adults with lower trait hedonic capacity are more inclined to use alcohol as a means of coping with cognitive distraction during sexual activity. Exploratory moderation analyses suggest that this is particularly true for women and individuals with higher levels of stress. In summary, low trait hedonic capacity is associated with lower sexual pleasure and a tendency to use alcohol with the motivation to cope with distracting thoughts during partnered sexual activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explored the unique roles that body and genital image play in behavior-specific orgasm consistency, beyond overall sexual self-esteem. US adults (N = 599; 64% women) completed questionnaires online. Hierarchical regression analyses predicted orgasm consistency during receptive oral sex and penile-vaginal intercourse (PVI) with additional clitoral stimulation (WAS) and with no additional clitoral stimulation (NAS) for the woman. Body image, genital image, and gender were entered in later steps to assess model improvement above sexual self-esteem. Models accounted for age, sexual and racial minority identities, and current relationship status. Results indicated that genital image improved all models and predicted higher orgasm consistency across all behaviors for men and women. For orgasm during receptive oral sex and PVI–NAS, sexual self-esteem was no longer significant once genital image was included. Genital image was a stronger predictor of women's versus men's orgasm during PVI–NAS; no significant gender differences were found for oral sex and PVI–WAS. Body image was not significant in any models, contrary to expectations, suggesting role overlap with sexual self-esteem. Genital image appears to play a unique role in sexual pleasure beyond overall sexual self-esteem and body image. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to expand the empirical research on Black women's sexualities by exploring differences in heterosexual and queer Black women's sexual experiences including sexual pleasure, orgasms, masturbation, number of sex partners, and sexual desire through a Black queer feminist lens. This study used survey data from n = 295 Black cisgender women from phase one of the triphasic Big Sex Study. Results showed that Black queer women had more sexual partners and reported masturbating at earlier ages compared to heterosexual women. Black queer women also reported higher pleasure ratings in sexual activities, sexual intimacy, and sexual intercourse. Finally, there were differences in correlates of sexual desire between heterosexual and queer women; however, no factors were correlated with desire to engage in sexual intercourse for power and control for both groups of women. Implications for advancing sex positive research on sexually diverse Black women are included. Black women's sexology has often focused on sexual risks and heterosexual women. This study focuses on sex positive aspects including sexual pleasure, orgasms, and desire among Black heterosexual and queer women. Results showed that queer women were more likely to have higher pleasure rankings and had different correlates of desire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Philippines is considered to have one of the highest rates of heterosexual women who have difficulty in experiencing sexual pleasure. However, very few studies have tackled this concern due to the conservative culture of the country. To address this, the present study aimed to build a theory of sexual pleasure for the Filipino women using a constructivist grounded theory approach. The theory is constructed out of two models: the Identity Model of Sexual Pleasure and the Sexual Event Model of Sexual Pleasure. Results of the study can be used to aid in future interventions for sex and relationship therapy in the country. The first study that explores sexual pleasure for the Filipino woman. This study follows their journey of discovering their sexual selves, getting over shame, and becoming vulnerable in their marriages to embrace being a sexual woman. This study is vital in creating interventions for sex and relationships therapy in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research studies on sex and sexuality in Chile are few and far between. At the national level, there is only one government-sponsored study that is more than 20 years old. Most of the few sex and sexuality studies have been conducted in the capital city, and revolved around topics of public health concern (e.g., sexual debut, undesired pregnancy, sexually transmitted infections, condom use, and sexual risky behaviors, etc.). This has also led to ignore or given less emphasis to other central, current and positive aspects of sexuality such as sexual pleasure, the use of social networks, the sex industry, non-normative practices, fantasies, sexual dysfunctions, to name a few. Thus, there is a need to update local knowledge at the population level, as well as to expand it to new current topics of interest not yet explored. Therefore, the objective is to explore, describe, and update the knowledge of sex and sexuality of Chilean men and women. A network of collaborators belonging to different universities collected a sample of Chilean men and women, diverse in terms of their sex, age, region of origin, etc. The study was conducted during the pandemic, only, through self-report measures. The study was evaluated and approved by the ethics committee from the University of Tarapacá. The survey tools includes the measurement of a series of variables related to various sexual aspects: sexual preferences, daily sexual practices, early and negative sexual experiences, sexual pleasure and satisfaction, use of drugs during sex, non-normative sexual practices, use of technologies and sexual social networks, adult entertainment industry, sexual education and knowledge, and the effect of the pandemic on sex. Furthermore, the study included the psychometric instrument to sexual function (male, female, and both versions for sexual minorities). Since much of the current national sex research appears to be primarily limited to public health and predominantly concerned with the potential negative impact on our general health, this project will provide new and updated knowledge in several areas. These are poised to potentiate a research area that remains poorly exploited, but also transform the clinical practice with local and updated knowledge, that better represent the individuals of nowadays in Chile and their realities. Particularly, different aspects of this project will be able to inform and directly impact sexual education programs and policy, which remains until today a controversial topic, especially in secondary and high-school education. Furthermore, the project will likely also influence social change and awareness in different topics (e.g., gender diversity), and expand the conversation in topics related to sexual health and wellbeing (e.g., sexual pleasure). Among the publications to come out of this project is the validation of the sexual function questionnaires, as well as the updating of the validation of the women's questionnaire with more sophisticated statistical techniques. On the other hand, the other publications will have a scope not only regional, national, but also international. The study uses a cross-sectional methodology with self-report measures and a non-probabilistic sample, which has an inherent methodological bias. Likewise, the sample lacks representativeness in the south of Chile, limiting the generalization of the results to that part of the population. The study did not include data collection with adolescents, a sexually active population with a high value and importance. Finally, several of the measures will have an exploratory and descriptive scope, which limits the statistical power of some of the analyzes to make reliable inferences. Nevertheless, the project will provide a series of innovative publications, supplying the need for new and updated local knowledge related to a theme poorly studied and worked on in Chile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual distress, as well as sexual pleasure, are essential components of sexual health. Recently, associations between transdiagnostic factors such as worry and rumination and sexual distress and pleasure have been found. However, considering the adequacy of the transdiagnostic approach to explain and intervene in psychopathology and well-being, there is a need to address further sexual distress and pleasure and their relation to specific transdiagnostic factors. This paper aimed to explore a theory-driven model of sexual distress and sexual pleasure using multiple regression analysis with specific dimensions of repetitive negative thinking such as worry, rumination (brooding and reflection), and emotional regulation (emotion suppression and cognitive reappraisal) as predictors while controlling for emotional factors (anxiety and depression). The sample comprised 412 individuals in a monogamous relationship for at least a year. Results showed significant, positive, and moderate correlations between sexual distress and all emotional and transdiagnostic factors. For sexual pleasure, negative associations were found with depression and anxiety, worry, and brooding. Reflection was a significant predictor of sexual distress when emotional factors were controlled in the regression model. Depression was a significant predictor for both sexual distress and sexual pleasure. This study significantly contributes to our understanding of the complex relationship between transdiagnostic factors and sexual distress and pleasure, offering valuable insights that expand upon previous studies in this field and further advance our knowledge about sexual well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexually explicit lyrics are more often expressed by male artists; however, sexually explicit lyrics created by female artists attract greater media interest. During the past thirty years, female-created lyrics about their sexuality have become increasingly more common and may serve as a 'pink'-print used by adolescent and young women to construct their sexual identity. This study examines female sexuality as expressed in the lyrics of R&B/Hip Hop and Pop music by female artists between 1991 and 2021. The R&B/Hip Hop genre was chosen as these artists (1) Discuss sex and sexuality more frequently, (2) Is dominated by Black artists, and (3) Is one of the most popular music genres. To provide context for these messages, the Pop genre was selected to determine how sex and sexuality is discussed in the other predominant music genre that is mostly comprised of white artists. Furthermore, female artists were used for this study as sexual messages from female artists usually garner more media attention due to traditional gender norms that dictate that women do not speak about, let alone enjoy, sex. This study employs a content analysis methodology that examined songs in the sample for common themes. These messages are marked by duality of female sexuality: respectability of the 'good' girl and expressing themselves as sexual beings with sexual desire. Results from this study can be used to further our understanding of the sexual messages that are consumed by adolescent and young women as part of the sexual identity construction of adolescent and young women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Female sex workers (FSWs) contribute disproportionately to HIV transmission in Uganda, and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is effective in preventing HIV among cisgender women. Psychological factors are important for PrEP uptake, but few studies have examined psychosocial changes due to PrEP use in Uganda. Methods: In 2021, we recruited 524 FSWs in three Trans-African Highway towns and four fishing communities in south-western Uganda. We conducted structured interviews among women who were attending routine PrEP follow-up visits in six health units. Bivariable and multivariable modified regression using a robust covariance matrix estimator were used to identify factors associated with experiencing increased sexual pleasure and less worry about HIV because of PrEP. Results: Overall, 80.9% participants reported that sex was more pleasurable because of taking PrEP. There were statistical trends for sex being more pleasurable when taking PrEP or when having condomless sex with casual paying partners (aPR = 1.19, 95% CI = 1.07–1.32, P = 0.001). Almost three-quarters of the participants (76.3%) were less worried about getting HIV because of PrEP. Condomless sex with casual paying partners (aPR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.05–1.31, P = 0.032, P = 0.003) and being On PrEP for the past 1–2 years (aPR = 1.18, 95% CI = 1.00–1.38, P = 0.032) was significantly associated with HIV-related worry (aPR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.05–1.31, P = 0.032, P = 0.003) Conclusions: We found a positive impact of PrEP in Ugandan FSWs on two key psychosocial dimensions: (1) more pleasurable sex; and (2) less worry about acquiring HIV. Interventions aiming to increase PrEP uptake may find it useful to focus on psychosocial dimensions. There is more to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) other than the health benefits. Usually, the important social benefits are less considered yet they could reveal much more. As interest intensifies, the social benefits should be incorporated more to tell us what we are missing about PrEP, that could be important globally in the use of this drug. Being less worried about a drug and enjoying sex without worry means 'confidence' about a drug that could be vital for future uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract\nLAY SUMMARYThe present study explores the use of sex toys among transgender and nonbinary Italian participants. Employing a mixed-methods approach, we aimed to understand the role of sex toys in trans and nonbinary individuals’ intimate experiences. We recruited 115 participants with diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. Participants completed a structured questionnaire encompassing both closed-ended and open-ended questions, investigating their usage of sex toys, preferences, and perceptions. Our findings reveal a significant prevalence of sex toy usage within the sample, indicating an interest in these aids. Notably, a wide spectrum of sex toys was employed, with external/internal vibrators and strap-ons emerging as particularly popular choices. Through qualitative analysis, participants provided nuanced insights into their preferences, emphasizing characteristics such as aesthetics, functionality, customization, and comfort. However, our study also unveiled the complex interplay between sex toys and societal norms. For instance, participants critically discussed the limited availability of sex toys tailored for diverse bodies. For transgender and nonbinary participants, sex toys assumed a unique significance beyond pleasure; they served as tools for overcoming body dysphoria, letting go of inhibitions, and affirming their gender identity.Our study delves into the world of sex toys and their significance in the lives of people with diverse gender identities. We wanted to understand how sex toys can make a difference for transgender and nonbinary individuals. It turns out that sex toys are quite popular, and many different types are used. But it’s not just about pleasure; for some, these toys help them feel more comfortable with their bodies and affirm their true gender. We also discovered that societal norms can play a big role in how people choose and use sex toys. Sometimes, these norms can limit choices and make things more challenging. But our research shows that sex toys can be empowering tools that help individuals explore their identities and enjoy fulfilling intimate experiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In two pre-registered experiments with German samples, we tested the role of endorsement of the Madonna-whore-dichotomy and the relationship context (sex in a committed relationship vs. casual sex) in the devaluation of women's sexual pleasure. Using the context of dating apps in Study 1, men who reported higher endorsement of the Madonna-whore-dichotomy believed that other men would be less interested in fulfilling a woman's sexual desires, show her less respect, and be less likely to wear a condom independent of relationship context (i.e., casual hookup dating app vs. a dating app for a serious relationship). In Study 2, men who reported higher endorsement of the Madonna-whore-dichotomy rated their partner as less entitled to sexual pleasure than men lower on Madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement. In addition, women who reported higher endorsement of the Madonna-whore dichotomy devalued their own pleasure by rating their partner as more entitled to sexual pleasure than themselves, compared to those lower on the Madonna-whore dichotomy. Although relationship context and Madonna-whore dichotomy endorsement did not interact, they were both found to negatively predict women's sexual pleasure. These results provide further support for the potential costs of enacting traditional, patriarchal gender roles for women's experiences of sexual pleasure and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The generalized social concern with sexual harassment and nonconsensual sex makes it imperative to incorporate notions of consent in any analysis of human sexual interactions. Such interactions follow an ordered sequence of events, starting with the perception of a sexual incentive, followed by an approach to it, genital interaction, and eventually orgasm. Consent from the partner is needed at every stage. At some points in this chain of events, the individuals involved make cognitive evaluations of the context and predictions of the likelihood for obtaining consent for proceeding to the next phase. Processes such as communication of consent or lack thereof, sexual decision making, and interpretation of cues emitted by the partner are decisive. Increased sexual motivation may influence these processes. However, available data make it possible to ascertain that enhanced motivation has no, or at most minor, effects, thereby invalidating the old assumption that heightened sexual motivation leads to impaired control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of this paper is to analyse the traditionalist criticism of Freudianism. The Viennese psychoanalyst identified the factors that stigmatise sexual pleasure, namely shame, revulsion, and morality. The thesis is that taboos and traditions are transmitted from one generation to another. They shape traditional communities and challenge individual pleasure. It is concluded that traditionalism has a universal dimension, as it is present in both religious and Bolshevik traditionalism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexuality, as it relates to video games in particular, has received increasing attention over the past decade in studies of games and play, even as the notion of play remains relatively underexplored within sexuality studies. This special issue asks what shift is effected when sexual representation, networked forms of connecting and relating, and the experimentation with sexual likes are approached through the notion of play. Bringing together the notions of sex and play, it both foregrounds the role of experimentation and improvisation in sexual pleasure practices and inquires after the rules and norms that these are embedded in. Contributors to this special issue combine the study of sexuality with diverse theoretical conceptions of play in order to explore the entanglements of affect, cognition, and the somatic in sexual lives, broadening current understandings of how these are lived through repetitive routines and improvisational sprees alike. In so doing, they focus on the specific sites and scenes where sexual play unfolds (from constantly morphing online pornographic archives to on- and offline party spaces, dungeons, and saunas), while also attending to the props and objects of play (from sex toys and orgasmic vocalizations to sensation-enhancing chemicals and pornographic imageries), as well as the social and technological settings where these activities occur. This introduction offers a brief overview of the rationale of thinking sex in and as play, before presenting the articles that make up this special issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Watching mainstream porn today is a main source for men and women to learn how to behave sexually, including how to erotically stimulate one another. To date, research into the content analysis of pornography has been limited to the measurement of the frequency or prevalence of sexual behaviours or themes. In contrast, little is known regarding porn presentation of the specific location and duration of touch, vital for orgasm, pleasure, and sexual satisfaction for both women and men. Eighty "most-viewed" video clips were selected from two popular porn sites and coded for the gender of toucher/receiver, location, and duration in seconds of erotic touch. Results showed that women received significantly less genital stimulation than men overall, with this difference drastically increasing with non-penetrative erotic touch. The men in these videos received stimulation to their main sexual organ (penis) 10 times more than women received on their most sensitive sexual organ (clitoris), and the women were found to do the majority of non-reciprocal genital touch. While accurate information is widely available regarding competent erotic touch necessary for pleasure and orgasm, unbalanced and inadequate touching is still strongly represented in popular heterosexual pornography. This study elucidates how popular, freely accessible pornography is normalizing beliefs that men's sexual touch and pleasure are primary and that clitoral stimulation is not a priority for women's pleasure. Implications for how these normative aspects of sexual stimulation that may be leading to difficulties in sexual pleasure, orgasm, and satisfaction are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractIntegrating pleasure may be a successful strategy for reaching young people with sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) interventions. However, sexual pleasure-related programming and research remains sparse. We aimed to assess chatbot acceptability and describe changes in SRHR attitudes and behaviours among Kenyan young adults engaging with a pleasure-oriented SRHR chatbot. We used an exploratory mixed-methods study design. Between November 2021 and January 2022, participants completed a self-administered online questionnaire before and after chatbot engagement. In-depth phone interviews were conducted among a select group of participants after their initial chatbot engagement. Quantitative data were analysed using paired analyses and interviews were analysed using thematic content analysis. Of 301 baseline participants, 38% (115/301) completed the endline survey, with no measured baseline differences between participants who did and did not complete the endline survey. In-depth interviews were conducted among 41 participants. We observed higher satisfaction at endline vs. baseline on reported ability to exercise sexual rights (P ≤ 0.01), confidence discussing contraception (P ≤ 0.02) and sexual feelings/needs (P ≤ 0.001) with their sexual partner(s). Qualitative interviews indicated that most participants valued the chatbot as a confidential and free-of-judgment source of trustworthy “on-demand” SRHR information. Participants reported improvements in sex-positive communication with partners and safer sex practices due to new learnings from the chatbot. We observed increases in SRHR empowerment among young Kenyans after engagement with the chatbot. Integrating sexual pleasure into traditional SRHR content delivered through digital tools is a promising strategy to advance positive SRHR attitudes and practices among youth.

PurposeWe developed and validated a measure that assesses the latent construct of sexual and reproductive empowerment among adolescents and young adults. A specific measure for this group is critical because of their unique life stage and circumstances, which often includes frequent changes in sexual partners and involvement from parents in decision-making.MethodsAfter formative qualitative research, a review of the literature, and cognitive interviews, we developed 95 items representing nine dimensions of sexual and reproductive empowerment. Items were then fielded among a national sample of young people aged 15-24 years, and those who identified as sexually active completed a 3-month follow-up survey. We conducted psychometric analysis and scale validation.ResultsExploratory factor analysis on responses from 1,117 participants resulted in the Sexual and Reproductive Empowerment Scale for Adolescents and Young Adults, containing 23 items captured by seven subscales: comfort talking with partner; choice of partners, marriage, and children; parental support; sexual safety; self-love; sense of future; and sexual pleasure. Validation using logistic regression demonstrated that the subscales were consistently associated with sexual and reproductive health information and access to sexual and reproductive health services measured at baseline and moderately associated with the use of desired contraceptive methods at 3-month follow-up.ConclusionsThe Sexual and Reproductive Empowerment Scale for Adolescents and Young Adults is a new measure that assesses young people's empowerment regarding sexual and reproductive health. It can be used by researchers, public health practitioners, and clinicians to measure sexual and reproductive empowerment among young people.

Introduction: Sexual pleasure is a human right and a central aspect of human sexuality that contributes significantly to people's overall well-being, making it an essential element to consider in clinical settings. This study aims to expand the understanding of sexual pleasure by examining how LGB+ people (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and other minority sexual orientations)-who perceived having a sexual problem-define solitary and partnered sexual pleasure. Methods: A cross-sectional exploratory qualitative study was conducted online. The current study included 85 people who self-identified as LGB+ and reported experiencing a sexual problem. Data analysis was performed using summative content analysis. Results: The results for solitary sexual pleasure comprised the creation of 5 categories (Enhancing the relationship with oneself, Specification of solitary pleasure, Negative experience, Unrestrained experience and A goal). For partnered sexual pleasure, 9 categories were created (The perks of being with another, Openness to experience, A result of sexual techniques, Psychophysiological experience, Misconceptions about sexual pleasure, Absence of intrapersonal constraints, Undesirable feelings, Explicit consent, and Absence of interpersonal constraints). Discussion: Despite reporting sexual problems, most participants reported having experienced sexual pleasure, and were able to define it. This study provided a deeper understanding of the perspectives on and experiences of sexuality among LGB+ people who experience sexual problems. Our findings highlight that current diagnostic criteria (e.g., DSM-5) do not seem to align with the problems reported by this sample population (the problems presented are beyond their sexual function). This reinforces the importance of viewing sexual problems from a perspective that goes beyond the categorial psychopathology model. Our study's findings may offer valuable insights for the evaluation and treatment of sexual problems, where sexual pleasure is considered a crucial aspect of sexual well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual satisfaction is important to individual well-being and relationship satisfaction, making it a research topic relevant for sex clinicians and relationship therapists. The current study adds to sexuality literature by asking participants questions about the factors involved in "great sex." We conducted 78 interviews via email or phone with participants ranging in age from 18 to 69. The sample included a diverse range of sexual orientations and identities, and various relationship statuses. Three primary themes emerged regarding great sex: orgasm, an emotional component, and chemistry/connection. Though some participants equated an emotional aspect as love; most participants made clear the difference between love and emotional elements in sex. Many participants shared their belief that a man only invests in his female partner's orgasm when he also invests in her emotionally. Thus, some women explained that the emotional component helped them be present enough to orgasm. Others explained the emotional component as trust and affection. Participants also elaborated to define chemistry, which they regarded as out of one's control and impossible to manufacture. A smaller number of participants stated unequivocally the lack of necessity of an emotional aspect to great sex; they stated instead that physical connection trumped an emotional component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual intimacy in traditional Judaism is frequently discussed in a nearly contradictory manner. While sexuality is described as a religious ideal it is concurrently portrayed in a highly puritanical version of Jewish law that minimizes such possibilities. This paradox is clarified by an exploration of the Talmud's approach to sexual pleasure in the context of marriage. An analysis of the Talmud's approach to sexual positions, frequency of marital relations, as well as homiletical approaches to sexuality and laws of ritual purity relating to sexuality demonstrates a dialectical approach to sexual intimacy. One pole endorses an ascetic approach, with a very negative view of sexuality. The other pole endorses an 'anti-ascetic' celebrating the importance and significance of sexual intimacy and pleasure in the context of marriage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Group sex (i.e., sex involving four or more simultaneous partners) is a prevalent but stigmatized sexual behaviour. People assume that group sex centers around self-focused pleasure/physical gratification and that accordingly, this must be the primary motivation people have for engaging in group sex. Yet emerging research on group sex, as well as broader sexuality research and theory, suggests that group sex motivations are multifaceted and, for many, tied to community and belonging. In the present study, we focus on people's reasons for engaging in group sex. We recruited twenty participants of diverse genders, sexual identities/orientations, ages (≥18 years), abilities, and group sex communities for individual interviews in southwestern British Columbia. We found that participants had engaged in group sex for a plurality of reasons, including their desire for novelty, sexual exploration, spirituality, and their upbringing. Importantly, many were motivated to have group sex by their belonging and acceptance in communities of like-minded individuals that embraced sex-positive principles and values. Pleasure was also an important motivator and was described in multifaceted ways and was intertwined with sexual empowerment, emotional vulnerability, and feelings of connection and intimacy. These findings shed light on an understudied aspect of group sex – that is, why people have it – and challenge the assumption that group sex is entirely motivated by self-focused desire for physical pleasure/gratification. Instead, they highlight how group sex motivation can be multifaceted and community focused. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of review: Women's orgasms have been subject to controversial discussions among scholars throughout history. Even today, narratives of women's orgasm being complicated or less important (cp. to men's) for their sexual functioning and satisfaction are prevailing and reflected in gendered sexual scripts. This review aims to compile evidence for the relationship between orgasm and sexual well-being in women. We consider orgasm's role in women's sexual pleasure, sexual satisfaction, and desire in the context of both casual and committed sexual encounters. Recent findings: Substantial evidence supports a significant link between orgasm and sexual pleasure, satisfaction, and desire in women. Orgasm has been identified as an important factor in predicting relational satisfaction as well as positive outcomes of casual sex. For instance, orgasming during casual sex completely accounts for the persistent gender differences researchers have observed in emotional and evaluative responses to casual encounters. Summary: As we cover in this review, there is no shortage of research demonstrating the myriad of favorable physical, psychological, and interpersonal associations with women's orgasms across relational and sexual contexts. Because orgasm has continually surfaced as such a critical component of women's positive sexual experiences, we argue the female orgasm should be taken seriously as a meaningful site of research on women's well-being, and orgasm equality should be taken seriously in the pursuit of gender equality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of sexual pleasure as a factor promoting sexual and public health is increasingly recognized. Nevertheless, hardly any theory-based and empirically tested interventions exist for fostering sexual pleasure. Consequently, we developed an unguided online intervention called PleaSure to promote sexual pleasure in women. In a randomized controlled pilot trial with a mixed-method design, we evaluated the effectiveness of PleaSure by comparing the intervention group to a waitlist control group in pre–post measurements over 4 weeks. With 657 participants (Mage = 31.46, SDage = 8.78), we evaluated an index of sexual pleasure and five facets: sensual pleasure, pleasure-related mastery, pleasure-related validation, interaction pleasure, and bonding pleasure. The results show that the online intervention primarily strengthened the intrapersonal domain of sexual pleasure by increasing pleasure-related mastery. Neither the other facets nor the index was significantly influenced by the intervention. Although the effects of the quantitative data are small, the qualitative data support overall positive effects on participants’ sexual experience. We discuss the content of the intervention and the methods used. Our pilot study suggests that sexual pleasure can be promoted but that major improvements are needed to the intervention’s content and design to do so effectively. Therefore, future studies are encouraged to further develop and implement such resource-efficient interventions in clinical and non-clinical samples to better understand the importance of sexual pleasure to sexual health.

Abstract Background The purpose of this study was to examine the perceived influence of cannabis on sexual functioning and satisfaction. This study used Kaplan’s and Masters and Johnson’s sexual response cycle (desire, excitement, orgasm, plateau, resolution) and included satisfaction to complete the sexual response cycle. Given increased attention in the research literature to the potential benefits of cannabis and the lack of research on the sexual benefits of cannabis use, the current study was completed. Methods Data were collected using the online survey tool “Qualtrics” from a self-selected, convenience sample of adults over the age of 18 who reported previous cannabis use. The survey, developed by the researchers based on previous literature, included demographic questions followed by a scale to measure sexual functioning and satisfaction in relation to cannabis use (α = 0.897). Results The final sample was 811 participants ranging in age from 18 to 85 years old (M = 32.11). The majority of participants were identified as female (n = 536, 64.9%), White/Caucasian (n = 640, 78.9%), and college educated (n = 650, 80.1%). Almost 25% of the participants were identified as LGBTQIA+ (n = 187, 23.1%). Most of the participants reported being in a monogamous sexual relationship (n = 598, 73.7%). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and multiple regression. Age and gender were not found to have significant effects on cannabis use and sexual functioning and satisfaction. Over 70% of participants reported increased desire (M = 4.05, SD = 0.962) and orgasm intensity (M = 4.05, SD = 0.884). Participants who reported masturbating indicated that cannabis enhanced their pleasure while masturbating (n = 620, 62.5%). Participants also stated that cannabis enhanced their sense of taste (n = 583, 71.9%) and touch (n = 576, 71.0%). Discussion The results of this study contrast and establish new evidence within the literature. Demographic results indicate that the people who use cannabis are of a wide range of ages, from a variety of occupations, and have differing cannabis use preferences. The inclusion of LGBTQIA + respondents is a strength of this study. Overall, results indicated that both men and women perceived that cannabis use increased their sexual functioning and satisfaction, particularly increased desire and orgasm intensity. Conclusion This study updates the current literature on cannabis and sexuality and provides implications for improving sexual quality. Medical implications of this study include the possible use of cannabis for treating sexual dysfunctions, especially within women.

A common belief is that, among our sexual dispositions, sexual orientations are important and deep features of who someone is. This distinguishes them from other sexual dispositions—“mere” preferences—that are thought to be trivial in comparison. Is there a way to adequately account for this distinction? What is a plausible explanation for the belief that sexual orientation is a deep and important feature of who one is? This paper defends one necessary condition for a sexual disposition to be an orientation, the well-being condition: if a sexual disposition is an orientation, then the inability to act on it lowers one’s well-being by rendering one’s life sexually deprived. The paper argues that the well-being condition better explains than other criteria the belief that orientations are important features of who one is. The paper concludes by tracing the implications of this view to the common understanding of sexual orientation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual pleasure is central to current understandings of sexual function, health, and wellbeing. In this article, we suggest that we lack a sufficiently specific, yet encompassing, definition of sexual pleasure and that we therefore lack comprehensive assessments of sexual pleasure. We introduce a definition of sexual pleasure and position it centrally in an adapted framework of the sexual response. In the framework, we include a taxonomy of rewards which can be retrieved from sex and thereby aim to capture the multifaceted nature of sexual pleasure. Through narrative review, we arrive at the definition, framework, and taxonomy by integrating theories of sexual motivation and response with the literature on sexual pleasure and basic rewards. We position this literature within theories of affect and personality which allows us to differentiate between the experience of and the tendency to experience sexual pleasure (i.e., state versus trait sexual pleasure). We discuss how this conceptualization of sexual pleasure could be reflected in self-report assessments to quantitatively assess sexual pleasure. The framework may aid to understand the role of the diverse facets of sexual pleasure in sexual function, health, and wellbeing and contribute to giving sexual pleasure the center position it deserves in sex research and therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Purpose of Review: Limited research addresses Black queer women's experience of sexual pleasure through an intersectional and sex-positive lens. Thus, the purpose of the paper is to review research on Black queer women's sexual pleasure using the Pleasure Mountain model's facilitators of pleasure: partnered interactions, liberation, mind-body-soul awareness, and orgasms. Recent Findings: Black queer women's sexual pleasure has been well theorized, but not often studied empirically. In the few studies, it was found that Black queer women appreciate mutual pleasure and orgasm, fake orgasm at similar rates as heterosexual peers, and employ their sex lives as sites of liberation. Summary: While studies are limited, there is available research that discusses the lived-sexual experiences of Black queer women while considering their intersectional identities. However, gaps remain in the current sexual pleasure research of Black queer women that will better explicate the context and mechanisms of their sexual pleasure and health. Future studies are needed to investigate the facilitators to sexual pleasure for Black queer women while incorporating Black queer women's voices as the sex scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The meanings of sexuality in seniorhood are found at the base of a complex interrelation between social, cultural and personal factors. The present research aimed to explore the psychological meanings that senior adults in Mexico City confer on sexuality, sexual pleasure and sexual desire; through the use of modified natural semantic networks. The sample consisted of 204 people: 162 senior women and 40 senior men, between 60 and 100 years old, attending a continuing education centers for senior adults in Mexico City. The study was mixed, descriptive, non-experimental, with non-probability and convenience sampling. The results show how the psychological meanings that the studied senior adults have related to sexuality, desire and sexual pleasure are predominantly positive, encompassing feelings, behaviors and sensations. Differences by gender are identified as proposed in the research hypothesis, but similarities within these meanings were also found. The senior women studied define sexuality from the interrelation between affective meanings and physical contact; the word "love" was the most referenced. In addition, they mentioned "pleasure", "desire", "caresses", "satisfaction", "kisses", "joy", "hugs", "health", "attraction", and "knowledge". Senior men, for their part, consider sexuality mainly as an attraction and include others such as: "satisfaction", "pleasure", "respect", "life", "fidelity", "complete", "unique", "woman", "touch", "important", "love", "knowledge", "passion", "desire", "need", and "affection". Women and men in the sample describe sexual desire and pleasure in a very similar way to their sexuality referents, which leads us to understand that the boundaries between the two terms are sensitive. Regarding sexual desire, senior women cite defining words such as: "caresses", "kisses", "love", "hugs", "pleasure", "desire", "necessary", "satisfaction", "natural", "attraction", "partner", "happiness", and "respect". In relation to sexual pleasure, they include the words: "enjoyment", "tenderness", "affection", "friendship", "joy", "it is the maximum", and "relaxing". For their part, senior men defined sexual desire as: "attraction", "love", "caresses", "satisfaction", "looks", "necessary", "natural", "woman", "kisses", "being alive", "respect", "passion", "libido", "important", "moving", "pleasure", "hug", "energy", "games", "excitement", "communication", "masturbation", "eroticism", and "taste". Sexual pleasure includes: "important", "fullness", "enjoyment", "respect", "pleasure", "joy", and "naturalness". The results show that the stage of sexuality in seniorhood is diverse and it is influenced by gender and social beliefs, which evidences the psychological complexity of this sphere of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While the importance of sexual pleasure for physical and mental health becomes increasingly evident, research on sexual pleasure in transgender persons is lacking. Recently, the first version of the Amsterdam Sexual Pleasure Index (ASPI Vol. 0.1) was validated in cisgender persons. This questionnaire aims to assess the tendency to experience sexual pleasure independent of gender, sexual orientation or anatomy. Aim: The aims of this study were threefold. First, to perform exploratory scale validation analyses of the ASPI in transgender persons. Secondly, to compare transgender sexual pleasure scores to reference data in cisgender persons. Finally, to identify factors that are associated with sexual pleasure. Methods: In a follow-up study conducted within the European Network for the Investigation of Gender Incongruence (ENIGI), online questionnaires were distributed to persons who had a first clinical contact at gender clinics in Amsterdam, Ghent or Hamburg four to six years earlier. Internal consistency of the ASPI was assessed by calculating McDonald's omega (ωt). ASPI scores were compared to scores from the cisgender population using a one sample t-test, and linear regressions were conducted to study associations with clinical characteristics, psychological wellbeing, body satisfaction and self-reported happiness. Results: In total, 325 persons filled out the ASPI. The ASPI showed excellent internal consistency (ωt, all: 0.97; transfeminine: 0.97, transmasculine: 0.97). Compared to data from cisgender persons, transgender participants had significantly lower total ASPI scores (i.e., lower sexual pleasure; transgender vs. cisgender, mean(SD): 4.13(0.94) vs. 4.71(0.61)). Lower age, current happiness and genital body satisfaction were associated with a higher tendency to experience sexual pleasure. Conclusion & discussion: The ASPI can be used to assess the tendency to experience sexual pleasure and associated factors in transgender persons. Future studies are needed to understand interplaying biopsychosocial factors that promote sexual pleasure and hence transgender sexual health and wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A range of personal lubricants with different formulations and subsequent properties are available for relief of discomfort associated with vaginal dryness; however, there are limited clinical data to support the efficacy and safety of many commercially available lubricants. Aim To determine the effectiveness and safety of 5 water-based personal lubricants for the relief of intimate discomfort associated with vaginal dryness in pre- and postmenopausal women: 4 that were formulated to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for osmolality and pH and 1 preexisting lubricant of higher osmolality and pH. Methods An open-label, parallel-design study was performed in women aged 18 to 65 years with mild-to-moderate vaginal dryness and dyspareunia. Participants were randomized to 1 of 5 lubricants (A-E) from 3 brands (Durex, KY, Queen V). They were instructed to use their allocated lubricants during vaginal intercourse at least once a week over a 4-week period. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) measured sexual functioning after 4 weeks of use as an indicator of lubricant performance. Outcomes The primary outcome was change from baseline in total FSFI score after 4 weeks of product use. Results A total of 174 women completed the study. The primary end point—a prespecified increase in FSFI ≥4 points from baseline after 4 weeks of use—was met by all 5 lubricants tested. A statistically significant improvement was observed across all 6 domains of the FSFI from baseline to 4 weeks of use with all 5 lubricants (P  < .0001 for lubrication and pain reduction and P  < .05 for all other domains). No serious adverse events occurred in the study, and the tolerance of all 5 lubricants was good/very good. Clinical Implications The efficacy and safety of the tested lubricants are not compromised when formulated to meet the WHO criterion of osmolality ≤1200 mOsm/kg. The lubricants tested in this investigation can be used not only to relieve symptomatology of vaginal dryness and dyspareunia but also to enhance overall sexual satisfaction. Strengths and Limitations This study provides clinical evidence for the efficacy and safety of 5 lubricants, including those formulated to meet WHO guidelines, in relieving symptoms of vaginal dryness and improving the overall sexual experience. The open-label design may have introduced bias into the study. Conclusion All 5 lubricants, including those formulated to be compliant with guidelines on pH and osmolality, can be considered effective and well tolerated for the relief of discomfort associated with vaginal dryness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]