Effectiveness of the PLISSIT Model-based Counseling on the Sexual Function of Couples during Pregnancy

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the PLISSIT model-based counseling on the sexual function of couples during pregnancy. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was carried out in Tehran (Najmieh Hospital) on 88 couples who were randomly assigned to the control (44 couples) and intervention (44 couples) groups. The intervention group received sexual counseling based on a PLISSIT model by a trained midwife, and the control group received only routine services in prenatal care. Sexual functions of the couples were assessed by the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and International Index Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaires before counseling, 4 weeks after counseling, and at the end of the second trimester of pregnancy. Independent t-test and repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) test were used for comparison of the scores within the groups. Findings: No significant differences were found in the demographic variables of the subjects. The mean total scores of FSFI and IIEF were not different at baseline in the two groups. Repeated measure analysis showed significant differences between the two groups in the mean total scores of FSFI and IIEF after the intervention. Post intervention, the mean of the total score of sexual function of the couples was significantly higher in the intervention group compared with the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, sex education for prenatal care would be effective, and we can claim that sexual function of couples during pregnancy may be enhanced by using the PLISSIT model