The Effect of Couple-centered Counseling Based on the Ex-Plissit Model on the Sexual Satisfaction of Infertile Couples.

Abstract

Background: Infertility and its treatments can adversely affect sexual health. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of couple-centered counseling based on the Ex-Plissit model on improving sexual satisfaction among infertile couples.

Materials and methods: Conducted at the Infertility Department of Fatemieh Hospital in Hamadan from 2022 to 2023, this study included 60 infertile couples randomly assigned to an intervention group (30 couples) or a control group (30 couples). Sexual satisfaction was assessed using the Lindaberg questionnaire. The intervention group received four counseling sessions based on the Ex-Plissit model, while the control group received routine care. Post intervention, both groups completed the questionnaire again. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 with descriptive and inferential statistics (paired t-tests, independent t-tests, Wilcoxon tests, and analysis of covariance) at a significance level of p < 0.05.

Results: Before the intervention, no significant difference in sexual satisfaction was observed between groups (p = 0.925). Post intervention, the intervention group showed significant improvement compared to the control group (p = 0.001). Within the intervention group, both men and women reported significant increases in sexual satisfaction (p = 0.001). In contrast, the control group showed no significant changes (p = 0.893 for women, p = 0.144 for men).

Conclusions: Couple-centered counseling using the Ex-Plissit model significantly enhances sexual satisfaction in infertile couples. It is recommended to assess sexual satisfaction in infertile couples and provide appropriate educational or therapeutic interventions.