Sexual Health During COVID-19: A Scoping Review. (29th June 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Toldam, Nana Ernst; Graugaard, Christian; Meyer, Rikke; Thomsen, Louise; Dreier, Sabine; Jannini, Emmanuele A.; Giraldi, Annamaria
• Is Part Of: Sexual medicine reviews. Volume 10:Number 4(2022)
• Page Start: 714
• Page End: 753
• Publication Date: 2022-06-29
• Subjects: Sexual Health -- COVID-19 -- Sexual Function -- Sexual Dysfunction -- Sexual Behavior; Sexual disorders -- Periodicals; 616.69005
• DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2022.06.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2050-0513

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted profoundly on the wellbeing and social interactions of the world population, and all dimensions of sexual health were potentially affected by globally implemented preventive measures. Objectives: The scoping review aimed to compile existing research investigating possible effects of COVID-19 lockdowns on adult sexual health, that is, sexual behavior, functioning, and satisfaction. Further, studies on the interplay between mental health and sexual well-being during the pandemic were reviewed. Methods: The review was conducted in accordance with guidelines established by the Joanna Briggs Institute and the Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) Checklist. On October 11–12, 2021, PubMed, Embase, PsycInfo, Cinahl, Cochrane, Sociological Abstracts and Scopus were systematically searched for relevant peer-reviewed papers employing quantitative methodology. Additionally, unpublished ("grey") research studies on the subject were retrieved. The screening, data extraction, and analysis of evidence were conducted by 4 independent reviewers using an iterative approach. Results: Based on 107 studies included, the scoping review showed that the pandemic had had a wide impact on all dimensions of sexual health. Except for solo sex activities, mainly negative COVID-19 implications were identified, although findings were, in sum, characterized by complexity and unpredictability. Thus, sexual behavior, functioning, and satisfaction during the pandemic appeared to be mitigated by a broad range of sociodemographic and contextual factors. Finally, sexual health seemed deeply entwined with overall mental health. Conclusion: The scoping review revealed a broad range of COVID-19-related effects on sexual health, including an overall decline in partnered sex and a concurrent increase in solo sex activities. It also emphasized a need for future research to shed light on possible long-term consequences of the pandemic in various population groups and on all aspects of sexual health.