Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Sexual Concerns During Perimenopause

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Sexual Concerns During Perimenopause

Given the high rates and associated impairment of sexual concerns during the menopausal transition, and specifically during perimenopause, our team has developed a CBT protocol specifically designed to target these prevalent and distressing sexual concerns. The broad aim of the proposed study is to validate this new protocol in a clinic that provides empirically-supported assessment and intervention services for women with menopause-related symptoms. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of a four-week individual CBT protocol in improving sexual satisfaction and reducing distress during perimenopause. The secondary objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of this CBT protocol to improve sexual functioning (e.g., desire, arousal), relationship satisfaction, and body image. Exploratory analyses will examine the impact on this CBT protocol on vasomotor symptoms, depression, and anxiety.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. 40-60 years of age;
2. peri-menopausal and have had a menstrual period within the previous twelve months as per the STRAW definition (Harlow et al., 2012);
3. cut-off score of 26 or lower on the Female Sexual Functioning Index, indicating sexual dysfunction (Wiegel et al., 2005);
4. medication stable (e.g., hormone therapy), with no changes in dosing for the previous three months (Green et al., 2019);
5. no psychological treatment to address sexual dysfunction and/or sexual concerns within the previous six months; and
6. speak, read, and write in English to comprehend testing procedures and written materials in treatment
7. living within Canada

Exclusion Criteria:

1. participants with psychotic disorders, or current substance and/or alcohol dependence; and
2. participants who are severely depressed/suicidal at time of the intake assessment.