The effects of sexual counseling based on the EX-PLISSIT and BETTER models on female sexual function after assisted reproductive treatment failure: a randomized clinical trial.

TL;DR

Sexual counseling using either the EX-PLISSIT or BETTER model significantly improved sexual function in women following failed assisted reproductive treatment, with both approaches showing similar effectiveness.

Key findings

• Both EX-PLISSIT and BETTER counseling models produced significant improvements across multiple sexual function domains (desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction) and reduced pain scores
• No statistically significant differences were observed between the two counseling models, suggesting similar therapeutic efficacy
• Study design involved 66 women receiving four combined sessions (two online and two in-person) with outcomes measured by Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)
• Sexual dysfunction is a recognized complication of failed assisted reproductive treatment that can be addressed through structured counseling interventions

Why this matters at the bedside

Provides evidence that structured sexual counseling is an effective intervention for sexual dysfunction in women after failed fertility treatment, with two validated models showing comparable benefits. Offers clinicians guidance on counseling approaches in the context of assisted reproductive treatment failure.