Sexual satisfaction among men living with HIV in Europe

AIDS Behav. 2012 Jan;16(1):225-30. doi: 10.1007/s10461-011-9987-x.

Abstract

This study determined risk factors for decreased sexual satisfaction among men living with HIV (MLHIV). Self-administered questionnaires were distributed consecutively to all MLHIV attending 17 European HIV treatment centres. The sample included 1,017 MLHIV, among whom 79.2% self-identified as homosexual or bisexual. Sexual satisfaction was measured for five domains of sexual functioning and 33.2% reported low satisfaction in at least one domain. Decreased sexual satisfaction was associated with psychosocial factors, i.e. depression (OR 2.77, P < 0.001), anxiety (OR 1.77, P < 0.001), stress (OR 2.27, P < 0.001) and social factors, such as low partner support (OR 2.28, P < 0.001) and experiences of HIV related discrimination (OR 1.69, P < 0.001). Discussing satisfaction with sexuality should be integrated in regular HIV care, considering patients' personal and relationship-related resources next to medical treatment if indicated.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Anti-Retroviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Anxiety / etiology
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / etiology
  • Europe
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / complications
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Risk Factors
  • Sexual Behavior / psychology*
  • Sexual Behavior / statistics & numerical data
  • Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / etiology
  • Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / psychology
  • Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological
  • Sexual Partners
  • Social Support
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Anti-Retroviral Agents