(021) Earlier Age of First Sexual Activity Predicts Women’s Higher Sexual Pleasure, but also Higher Sexual Shame

Abstract Introduction Despite calls for greater focus on sex-positive frameworks understanding adolescent sexuality (Harden, 2014), the majority of research early puberty and sexual debut has primarily focused negative outcomes such as body shame (McKenney & Bigler, 2016; Schooler et al., 2005), or vulvar pain (Bergeron 2011; Latthe 2006), risk STIs (Sandfort 2008; Upchurch 2004), unwanted pregnancy (O’Donnell 2001; Mosher McNalley, 1991). However, some studies suggest that is also associated with positive higher desire (Fortenberry, 2013) intimacy in relationships (Kaltiala-Heino 2003). Possibly, this contradiction arises researchers have not often distinguished between effects – pubertal timing partnered vs. solitary experiences. Objectives The current study was designed to improve providers’ women’s experiences later wellness. Specifically, we sought clarify associations add scant literature addressing pleasure functioning. Methods 92 women recruited from a large university Midwest (Mean age = 20.51, SD 2.7) participated an online survey about We ran series Pearson correlations at puberty, menses, first masturbation, activity, their adult levels shame, pleasure, Results Early significantly correlated reported adulthood, whereas adulthood. Of note, masturbation both Correlations overall functioning were significant. Conclusions are each increased these may be particularly important targets intervention decrease distress Moreover, although been largely stigmatized health across science literature, our findings earlier enable experience perhaps result negotiation desires communication (Sprecher 2019). If replicated, would need targeted education patients experiencing adolescence prevent development Disclosure No.