The Effect of Counseling based on PLISSIT Model Focused on Dysfunctional Sexual Beliefs among Women with Sexual Dysfunction: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Background & aim: Sexual beliefs play a tremendous role in sexual dysfunction. Previous studies have not adequately addressed dysfunctional sexual beliefs. Given the recognizing of the PLISSIT model as an effective sexual counseling method, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of counseling based on PLISSIT Model focused on dysfunctional sexual beliefs among women with sexual dysfunction.Methods: This parallel randomized clinical trial was performed in comprehensive Health Centers in Mashhad, Iran, in ۲۰۱۹. Sixty-one eligible women with sexual dysfunction were selected through convenience sampling and randomly assigned to control and intervention groups using a simple lottery method. Data were collected by the Female Sexual Function Index and the Sexual Dysfunctional Beliefs questionnaire. The intervention group received four weekly sexual counseling sessions based on the PLISSIT model focused on dysfunctional sexual beliefs. The control group received routine care of the health centers. Data were analyzed by SPSS (version ۲۴) using Paired t-test and Wilcoxon tests.Results:  The mean overall sexual function scores immediately after the intervention and one month later were ۳۰.۵ ± ۲.۲ and ۳۰.۵ ± ۲.۴, respectively, in the intervention group, while in the control group; the scores were ۲۳.۴ ± ۳.۶ and ۲۳.۴ ± ۳.۲, respectively. The differences between the groups were significant (P<۰.۰۰۱).Conclusion: PLISSIT model counseling focused on dysfunctional sexual beliefs improved the sexual function of women with sexual dysfunction. It is recommended that this intervention be included in the agenda of sexual counseling clinics to improve sexual function in the women with sexual dysfunction.

Keywords:

Women , Sexual counseling , PLISSIT model , Sexual dysfunction