Pain Intensity and Sexual Functioning in Men with Genital Pain: The Mediation Role of Sexually Related Thoughts.

The comorbidity between male genital pain and sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent. Previous studies have indicated that men with genital pain share some cognitive characteristics with men experiencing other sexual dysfunctions. However, there is little information on the role of these cognitive factors in understanding the relationship between pain intensity and sexual functioning. This study aims to test if negative sexually related thoughts mediate the relationship between pain intensity and sexual functioning in men with genital pain. A total of 50 men with self-reported genital pain completed an online survey assessing pain intensity, thoughts during sexual activity, and sexual functioning. Results showed a significant effect of negative sexually related thoughts on sexual functioning, β = -.71, t(50) = -4.2, p <.001. Additionally, the Sobel test found a partial mediation effect (z = 2.23, p =.025) and a medium to large indirect effect size was observed (abcs =.474). Findings suggest that negative sexually related thoughts play an important role in explaining the impact of pain intensity on sexual functioning. Overall, the study emphasizes the relevance of cognitions in predicting sexual function/dysfunction in men with genital pain and suggests the use of cognitive techniques in the treatment of this clinical condition.