Assessment of the effect of mindfulness monotherapy on sexual dysfunction symptoms and sex-related quality of life in women

Background: Mindfulness-based therapies (MBTs) are frequently used in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions. So far, there has not been sufficient evidence for the effectiveness of interventions based on mindfulness monotherapy.

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of mindfulness monotherapy on the reduction of sexual dysfunction symptoms and sex-related quality of life.

Methods: We conducted 4 weeks of MBT for 2 groups of heterosexual females: 1 with psychogenic sexual dysfunction (WSD) and 1 with no sexual dysfunction (NSD). Overall 93 women were recruited for the study. We collected data via an online survey regarding sexual satisfaction, sexual dysfunctions, and mindfulness-related features at baseline, 1 week after MBT, and follow-up 12 weeks after MBT. Research tools included the Female Sexual Function Index, Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, and Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire.

Outcomes: Participating in the mindfulness program had a positive effect on women with and without sexual dysfunction.

Results: The overall risk for sexual dysfunction decreased from 90.6% at baseline to 46.7% at follow-up in the WSD group and from 32.5% at baseline to 6.9% at follow-up in the NSD group. Participants in the WSD group reported a significant increase in levels of sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, and orgasm between measurements, although not in the pain domain. Participants in the NSD group reported a significant increase in the level of sexual desire between measurements but not in levels of arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and pain. A significant increase in sex-related quality of life was observed in both groups.

Clinical implications: The results of the study have a chance to translate into an introduction of a new therapeutic program for specialists and more effective help offered to women experiencing sexual dysfunctions.

Strengths and limitations: This mindfulness monotherapy research project, which included assessment of meditation "homework," is the first to verify the potential of MBT in reducing symptoms of psychogenic sexual dysfunctions among heterosexual females. Major limitations include the lack of randomization, an adequate control group, and a validated measure of sexual distress.

Conclusion: The applied training was beneficial in the treatment of sexual dysfunctions in terms of increasing desire and arousal as well as the ability to reach orgasm. However, this approach needs more investigation before it can be recommended in the treatment of sexual dysfunction. The study should be replicated under a more rigorous research design, including adequate control groups and random allocation of participants to study conditions.