Diagnosis and treatment of unconsummated marriage in an Iranian couple

Abstract

BackgroundUnconsummated marriage is a problem among couples who would not be able to perform natural sexual intercourse and vaginal penetration. This disorder is more common in developing countries and sometimes couples would come up with non-technical and non-scientific methods to overcome their problem. Multi-dimensional approach and narrative exposure therapy used in this case.MethodsThis study would report a case of unconsummated marriage between a couple after 6 years. The main problem of this couple was vaginismus and post-traumatic stress.ResultsTreatment with multi-dimensional approach for this couple included methods like narrative exposure therapy, educating the anatomy of female and male reproductive system, correcting misconceptions, educating foreplay, educating body exploring and non-sexual and sexual massage and penetrating the vagina first by women finger and then men's after relaxation. The entire stages of the treatment lasted for four sessions and at the one-month follow-up couple's satisfaction was desirable.ConclusionUnconsummated marriage is one of the main sexual problems; it is more common in developing countries than developed countries and cultural factors are effective on intensifying this disorder. The use of multi-dimensional approach in this study led to expedite diagnosis and treatment of vaginismus.

Effect of pregnancy on sexual function of couples

“…The physiologic and psychological changes that occur during pregnancy may affect sexual function and sexual activity10. Sexual function among pregnant women have been extensively studied in the literature1,4,9. The FSFI was chosen for this study because it is a specific and multidimensional research instrument, following the evolution of new concepts of female sexual dysfunction16.…”

“…According to the World Health Organization, safe sexual experiences cannot be only defined as the absence of sexual dysfunction, but as a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well- being related to sexuality3. Sexuality is a taboo subject in many countries, including Iran4. That negatively affects quality of life and may often be responsible for psychopathological disturbances5.…”

Sexual Self-Efficacy and Associated Factors: A Review

“…Although evidence suggests that SSE is necessary for the sexual function and safe sexual behavior (11), the factors related to the SSE remain marginalized and neglected in sexual health education programs. While understanding these factors may improve people's knowledge, attitudes, beliefs or behavioral practices and could lead to a reduction in risky sexual behavior (12).…”

Editorial: Sexuality, mother-child health and infectious diseases

“…Amiri and colleagues describe female sexual outcomes in primiparous women after vaginal delivery and caesarian section; 3 while the next paper is on the diagnosis and treatment of unconsummated marriage in an Iranian couple. 4 …”