Comparing the Effect of Extended PLISSIT Model and Group Counseling on Sexual Function and Satisfaction of Pregnant Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Introduction: Changes in the performance and sexual satisfaction of women during pregnancy can be one of the important factors involved in the emergence of sexual problems in women. This study aimed to compare the effect of Extended Permission, Limited Information, Specific Suggestion, Intensive Therapy (Ex-PLISSIT) and group counseling on sexual function and satisfaction of pregnant women.

Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted on 111 pregnant women from 2016 to 2018 in Zanjan, Iran. Eligible participants were selected through convenience sampling method and allocated into three groups Ex-PLISSIT model, group counseling and control group, using block randomization method. Sexual function and sexual satisfaction were evaluated via the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Hudson’s sexual satisfaction questionnaire at baseline and four weeks after the last counseling session. Data were analyzed using SPSS ver. 13 and ANCOVA, ANOVA, Wilcoxon, chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal Wallis tests.

Results: Median (interquartile range) of the participants’ sexual function in the Ex-PLISSIT group was 25.9 (4) in the counseling group, 26 (5.5), in the control group, and 25.8 (4.8) at the baseline. These scores changed to 28.9 (5.4), 27.9 (5.1), and 25.2 (4.3) at the 4-week follow-up, respectively. These differences were statistically significant. Moreover, there was a statistically significant difference in the mean sexual satisfaction scores between the three groups, at the follow up period.

Conclusion: Providing sexual counseling by any approach during routine prenatal care by community midwives may improve couples’ sexual health.