The relationship between sexual behavior and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic: an online survey study

Authors : Zeynep Sofuoğlu, Caner Baysan, Hakan Gülmez, Seher Palanbek Yavaş, Pınar Ayvat

Pages : 248-256

Doi:10.31362/patd.1216204

View : 16 | Download : 4

Publication Date : 2023-04-05

Article Type : Research

Abstract :Purpose: In addition to its psychologically and socially negative effects on society, the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the sexual behavior of individuals. This study investigated the relationship between changes in sexual drive and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Materials and methods: The data of this cross-sectional study were collected using a web-based survey between 12 May and August 12, 2021, with the voluntary participation of 231 individuals. The survey form included questions on sociodemographic and health-related characteristics, employment status, sex life before and in the COVID-19 pandemic period and status of having a partner, and COVID-19 diagnostic status, in addition to the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale. Results: A reduction in sexual drive in the pandemic period was reported by 71 (30.7%) of the participants. The group whose sexual drive decreased had significant differences in terms of age, marital status, the status of having children, and Warwick-Edinburgh scale scores compared to the groups whose sexual drive increased or remained unchanged (respectively, p=0.009, p=0.039, p=0.041, and p<0.001). According to the logistic regression model, each a 1-year increase in age corresponded to a 8% (95% CI: 3-12%) increase in the risk of reduced sexual drive (p=0.001), and a 1-unit increase in Warwick-Edinburgh scale scores corresponded to a 16% (95% CI: 22%-10%) decrease (p<0.001). Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic affected the sexual drives and behavior of the participants. Increased age and lower mental well-being levels were associated with lower sexual drive. Programs aimed at improving mental well-being will have a beneficial effect on sexual behavior.
Keywords : Cinsel davranış, COVID-19 pandemisi, ruh sağlığı, cinsel aktivite