Efficacy of Sexual Counseling based on PLISSIT Model on Sexual Functioning in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

  Background and purpose: Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) suffer from sexual dysfunction that is largely ignored in health clinics. This study was conducted to assess the efficacy of Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestion, Intensive Therapy (PLISSIT) model on sexual function of women with PCOS.. Materials and methods: This randomized clinical trial was performed in 66 women with PCOS aged 18-45 years old. They were divided into intervention and control groups (n=33 per group). Four weekly sessions of one hour individual counseling based on PLISSIT model were performed for the intervention group, while the control group received only routine care. Female Sexual Functioning Index questionnaire was completed at pre-test, and one month and three months after that in both groups. Data analysis was done applying Friedman, Mann–Whitney U, and Wilcoxon tests. Results: There were homogeneity in subjects’ mean age (29.26±5.96), educational level (12.02±2.65) and BMI (25.95±3.67). Also, the two groups were similar in terms of symptoms including hirsutism, acne, alopecia, infertility and menstrual status. The mean scores for sexual functioning were 20.39±2.56, 24.40±4.70 and 23.73±1.26 at pre-test, after the intervention, and follow-up in intervention group, respectively (P<0.001), but no significant differences were seen between the scores of the control group (P=0.405).Also, the scores for lubrication were not significantly different between the two groups at post-intervention (P=0.245) and follow-up (P=0.423). Conclusion: The PLISSIT model improved sexual functioning in women with PCOS, therefore, it could be recommended as an assessment and management tool in investigating sexual problems at early stages in this group of women.   (Clinical Trials Registry Number: IRCT201512023034N16)