Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health

A special issue of Healthcare (ISSN 2227-9032).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2026) | Viewed by 18992

Special Issue Editors


E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal
Interests: mental health; gender and sexual minorities
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Psychology and Education, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Pólo IV, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal
Interests: psychological assessment; psychological intervention; psychopathology; health and clinical psychology; social psychology; public health; autism and stigma
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

A large body of scientific research has identified factors that show an association between gender/sexual aspects and mental health. Research usually associates interpersonal discrimination and stigma with poor mental health outcomes, but further investigations of the influence of psychosocial contexts and norms on mental health and well-being are needed. This essential task has relevant implications for health and social interventions, as well as policy measures aimed at prevention. Focusing on enhancing the effectiveness of primary care and related services, while also investing in prevention programs, resources, and research, this Special Issue will contribute to promoting mental health outcomes. More specifically, sexual orientation and gender identity need to become a part of routine data collection so that inequalities in mental health and well-being can be more fully understood and addressed.

For this Special Issue, we welcome original research, reviews and commentaries that provide new knowledge about determinants of mental health and well-being, focusing on gender and all forms of sexualities from around the world.

Prof. Dr. Henrique Pereira
Dr. Felipe Alckmin-Carvalho
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Healthcare is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • gender
  • sexualities
  • mental health
  • well-being
  • sexual stigma
  • health behavior
  • risk factors
  • protective factors
  • LGBTQIA+

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (12 papers)

Order results
Result details
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

14 pages, 261 KB  
Article
Work-Related Quality of Life, Mental Health, and Female Sexual Well-Being Among Nurses
by Panagiota Valetta, Ioanna Dimitriadou, Krystalia Gkouletsa, Aikaterini Toska, Maria Saridi, Anna Mavroforou and Evangelos C. Fradelos
Healthcare 2026, 14(11), 1444; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14111444 - 23 May 2026
Viewed by 211
Abstract
Introduction: The work-related quality of life affects employee satisfaction and organizational effectiveness, with a direct impact on the quality of healthcare. This study aims to investigate the work-related quality of life (WRQoL) among nurses in tertiary healthcare, as perceived by the nurses themselves, [...] Read more.
Introduction: The work-related quality of life affects employee satisfaction and organizational effectiveness, with a direct impact on the quality of healthcare. This study aims to investigate the work-related quality of life (WRQoL) among nurses in tertiary healthcare, as perceived by the nurses themselves, in relation to their demographic and professional characteristics. At the same time, it seeks to highlight the way in which the individual dimensions of WRQoL influence their sexual and mental health. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 in a General Hospital in Greece. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing sociodemo-graphic and occupational characteristics, WRQoL, mental health (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale—DASS-21), and female sexual function (Female Sexual Function Index—FSFI-19). Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were performed. The regression model was adjusted for age, marital status, number of children, and work experience. Results: The results demonstrated a significant negative association between depression and sexual function (β = −0.388, p = 0.029), while stress was positively associated with sexual function (β = 0.371, p = 0.038). The overall regression model was statistically significant (p = 0.001), explaining 18.6% of the variance in sexual function. Conclusions: The findings highlight the close interrelationship between work-related quality of life, mental health, and sexual function among nurses. Poorer psychological well-being was associated with reduced sexual function, emphasizing the impact of occupational and emotional burden on nurses’ overall health. These results underline the importance of supportive workplace environments and targeted interventions to promote mental and sexual well-being among healthcare professionals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
23 pages, 343 KB  
Article
Trans* People Experiencing Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence: Insights from Professionals Within Portugal’s National Support Network
by Luiza Andrade and Pedro Alexandre Costa
Healthcare 2026, 14(10), 1390; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14101390 - 19 May 2026
Viewed by 321
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Despite legal progress and achievements regarding trans* rights in Portugal over recent decades, trans* individuals still face high levels of violence and discrimination, especially within family and intimate relationships. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences and perspectives of professionals [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Despite legal progress and achievements regarding trans* rights in Portugal over recent decades, trans* individuals still face high levels of violence and discrimination, especially within family and intimate relationships. This qualitative study aimed to explore the experiences and perspectives of professionals working in the domestic violence field with the trans* population and service provision within the National Support Network for Victims of Domestic Violence (RNAVVD). Methods: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight participants, including psychologists, social workers, and program directors from organizations supporting victims of domestic violence in Portugal. Data were analyzed using Codebook Thematic Analysis to identify themes, resulting in two main themes: (1) Experiences in Working with Victimized Trans* Individuals; and (2) Framework of Portugal’s National Support Network. Results: The results showed that trans* individuals face significant vulnerabilities due to family and intimate partner violence, systemic discrimination, and inequalities in essential services. Young trans* individuals are seen as being particularly at risk due to the impacts of violence and lack of family support on their autonomy, and additional barriers to entering the labor market. Participants also identified barriers faced by this population when trying to access victim support services (e.g., lack of specialized training and low availability of specialized and culturally competent services), while highlighting efforts by LGBTQIA+ services to meet their psychosocial needs. Conclusions: In conclusion, public institutions must address the specific needs of trans* individuals by developing policies and services that adopt a cross-sectoral, intersectional approach across society. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 317 KB  
Article
Health Professionals’ Approaches to Support Patient Diversity in the Assessment of Vaginismus: A Critical Feminist Qualitative Study for Inclusive Care
by Rashmi Pithavadian, Vijayasarathi Ramanathan, Sowbhagya Micheal and Tinashe Dune
Healthcare 2026, 14(10), 1261; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14101261 - 7 May 2026
Viewed by 542
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Current research on vaginismus predominantly represents White cisgendered and heterosexual women of reproductive age. It is unclear how health professionals (HPs) navigate and support the needs of patients with vaginismus who are gender, sexually, ethnically, religiously, age and/or disability diverse. Therefore, this [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Current research on vaginismus predominantly represents White cisgendered and heterosexual women of reproductive age. It is unclear how health professionals (HPs) navigate and support the needs of patients with vaginismus who are gender, sexually, ethnically, religiously, age and/or disability diverse. Therefore, this qualitative study explored health professionals’ experiences and perceptions of patient diversity to holistically assess and support people with vaginismus. Methods: In 2023–2024, 23 HPs in general practice, uro/gynaecology, pelvic floor physiotherapy, mental health, nursing and clinical education participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were inductively thematically analysed with a critical feminist poststructuralist focus on heteronormativity, cisnormativity, ethnocentricity, chrononormativity, and able-bodied normativity. Results: Two themes were developed. The first theme on ‘uneven attention of diversity dimensions in the assessment and support of vaginismus’ explored patients’ ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender, age and disability. The second theme on ‘sexually and gender-diverse people’s varied treatment goals for vaginismus’ examined nuanced challenges between heterosexual and non-heterosexual women and limited representation of gender-diverse people. Conclusions: The findings suggest that not discussing patients’ diversity may contribute to their identity erasure and ethnocentric exaltation of White centrality. Treatment approaches may uphold heteronormativity. HPs often described vaginismus as a young woman’s problem. It is recommended that HPs review whether patients with advancing age and/or disability suppress desires for pain-free sex due to societal norms. Decolonising approaches and abject theory could inform the development of inclusive health resources. This can assist HPs to sensitively and supportively assess patients’ diversity to improve their holistic health and well-being outcomes for vaginismus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
15 pages, 678 KB  
Article
How Do Portuguese Care Providers Address Disability and LGBT Identity in Their Work?
by Inês Soares, Ana R. Pinho, Liliana Rodrigues, Catarina Maria Rêgo-Moreira and Conceição Nogueira
Healthcare 2026, 14(8), 1026; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14081026 - 13 Apr 2026
Viewed by 289
Abstract
Despite growing interest in the sexuality and gender identity of people with disabilities (PWD), this topic remains underexplored in both research and institutional policies, owing to prevailing views that ignore PWD sexual life. This contributes to the invisibility of individuals who identify as [...] Read more.
Despite growing interest in the sexuality and gender identity of people with disabilities (PWD), this topic remains underexplored in both research and institutional policies, owing to prevailing views that ignore PWD sexual life. This contributes to the invisibility of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans (LGBT) and to inadequate attention to the specific needs of LGBT people with disabilities (LGBT PWD). Background/Objectives: Given the lack of Portuguese studies that examine the intersection of LGBT and disability identities, this study aimed to understand professionals’ attitudes and practices toward PWD regarding sexuality and LGBT belonging. Methods: We conducted qualitative research using semi-structured interviews with eleven professionals (two psychologists, three occupational therapists, and six personal assistants). We analyzed the data using reflexive thematic analysis. Results: Key findings highlight professionals’ limited knowledge, prevailing cis-heteronormative attitudes, and emerging affirmative practices. Conclusions: Training and institutional changes are needed to make services more inclusive and responsive to the needs of LGBT PWD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 762 KB  
Article
How Childhood Maltreatment Contributes to Explaining Depressive Symptoms in Transgender and Gender-Diverse Individuals
by Arkadiusz Parker and Aleksandra M. Rogowska
Healthcare 2026, 14(5), 558; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14050558 - 24 Feb 2026
Viewed by 833
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals experience disproportionately high rates of childhood trauma and depression; however, the mechanisms linking gender identity and depressive symptoms remain insufficiently understood. This study examines differences in depressive symptoms and childhood trauma between cisgender (CG) and TGD adults. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals experience disproportionately high rates of childhood trauma and depression; however, the mechanisms linking gender identity and depressive symptoms remain insufficiently understood. This study examines differences in depressive symptoms and childhood trauma between cisgender (CG) and TGD adults. It investigates whether specific subtypes of childhood maltreatment mediate the association between gender identity and depression. Methods: The cross-sectional online study included 249 participants aged 18–72 years (M = 30.85, SD = 12.72), including 144 CG (75 women and 69 men) and 105 TGD individuals (44 transgender and 61 gender diverse individuals). Depression symptoms were assessed using the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), while childhood trauma experiences were measured using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire–Short Form (CTQ-SF). Results: The independent-sample Student’s t-test showed that TGD participants reported significantly higher levels of depressive symptoms and all forms of childhood trauma than cisgender individuals. Mediation analyses indicated that overall childhood trauma partially mediated the association between gender identity and depression. In parallel mediation models, emotional abuse emerged as the primary statistical mediator, with sexual abuse showing a smaller indirect effect. Conclusions: The findings extend prior prevalence-focused research by identifying specific childhood trauma pathways associated with depressive symptoms in TGD adults. Experiencing traumatic events during childhood may be a key factor contributing to an increased risk of depression in adulthood, particularly among the TGD population. Therefore, intervention and prevention programs should target TGD individuals and their families to minimize the risk of adverse childhood experiences and mental health disorders. The results underscore the importance of trauma-informed and gender-affirming mental health care and highlight emotional abuse as a particularly salient correlate of depression in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 637 KB  
Article
Constructing Wholeness in LGBTQ+ Healthcare Access: A Grounded Theory Model
by Braveheart Gillani, Jessamyn Moxie, Meagan Ray-Novak, Roni Diamant-Wilson, Dana M. Prince, Laura J. Mintz and Scott Emory Moore
Healthcare 2026, 14(4), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14040536 - 22 Feb 2026
Viewed by 831
Abstract
LGBTQ+ individuals continue to experience substantial barriers to accessing affirming healthcare, including discrimination, structural inequities, and provider-level limitations. This study aimed to develop an emergent grounded theory model of constructing wholeness in healthcare. Methods: This study employed a secondary constructivist grounded theory analysis [...] Read more.
LGBTQ+ individuals continue to experience substantial barriers to accessing affirming healthcare, including discrimination, structural inequities, and provider-level limitations. This study aimed to develop an emergent grounded theory model of constructing wholeness in healthcare. Methods: This study employed a secondary constructivist grounded theory analysis of qualitative data from The Rainbow Connections Study, a community-based system dynamics project. Data were collected through eight group model-building sessions conducted via Zoom with 28 LGBTQ+ participants, including older adults, youth, transgender and gender-diverse individuals, and staff from the LGBTQ+ community center who also held service and practitioner roles; analytic claims are framed to reflect this mixed-role sample. Sessions were audio- and video-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding procedures. Constant comparative methods, reflexive memoing, and member checking were used to support analytic rigor and trustworthiness. Results: Analysis revealed a dynamic process in which LGBTQ+ individuals encounter external forces within healthcare systems that alternately support or fragment their sense of self. In response, participants engaged in four interconnected internal processes—interconnecting selves, intra-community support, self-determined care, and meaning-finding—that facilitated movement toward wholeness. These processes were non-linear, iterative, and present across diverse identities and life stages. Conclusions: The emergent theory of Constructing Wholeness in Connecting to Healthcare highlights that LGBTQ+ healthcare experiences extend beyond access and utilization to include identity integration, community reliance, and meaning making. Supporting LGBTQ+ health requires healthcare approaches that affirm wholeness, reduce structural harm, and recognize the central role of community in navigating care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 826 KB  
Article
Well-Being and Sexual Diversity in Higher Education: The Role of Mental Health, Optimism, Academic Performance, and Motivation in Portuguese Students
by José Alberto Ribeiro-Gonçalves, Diana Fernandes, Ester Câmara and Margarida Pocinho
Healthcare 2026, 14(3), 407; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14030407 - 5 Feb 2026
Viewed by 586
Abstract
Introduction. Entering higher education represents a significant and challenging stage, marked by substantial changes that impact students’ well-being, mental health, and academic performance. These challenges can be particularly intensified for lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) students, who are frequently subject to minority stress. [...] Read more.
Introduction. Entering higher education represents a significant and challenging stage, marked by substantial changes that impact students’ well-being, mental health, and academic performance. These challenges can be particularly intensified for lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) students, who are frequently subject to minority stress. In this context, few studies have focused on aspects associated with the well-being of these students. This study aimed to assess well-being, mental health, optimism, motivation, and academic performance according to students’ sexual orientation, as well as the main predictors of well-being in both groups. Method. The sample comprised 285 higher education Portuguese students, of whom 129 were heterosexual and 156 were LGB, aged between 18 and 69 years. Results. The results revealed that the LGB students showed significantly lower levels of optimism, but higher levels of academic performance and mental health, compared to heterosexual students. Among LGB students, optimism stood out as one of the main predictors of well-being, while mental health stood out among heterosexual students. Conclusions. The results highlight the need for more inclusive university environments and psychological interventions focused on promoting optimism to reduce the impact of minority stress and promote the well-being and academic retention of LGB students. More studies are needed that consider the diverse sexual orientations of university students. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1924 KB  
Article
An Autophotographic–Phenomenological Investigation of British Transmen’s Psychological Well-Being
by Harry Cosford and Iain Richard Williamson
Healthcare 2026, 14(3), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14030389 - 3 Feb 2026
Viewed by 691
Abstract
Background/Objectives: British trans and gender-expansive individuals face stigma and consistently experience lengthy waits for gender-enhancing interventions. Researchers are using a range of qualitative methodologies to give this marginalised community a voice. In this study the focus is on the lived experiences of [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: British trans and gender-expansive individuals face stigma and consistently experience lengthy waits for gender-enhancing interventions. Researchers are using a range of qualitative methodologies to give this marginalised community a voice. In this study the focus is on the lived experiences of British transgender men seeking medical intervention around their gender identity. The aim was to explore how psychological well-being for this group of transmen was both threatened and supported. Methods: Online semi-structured interviews using auto-photography were conducted with eleven transmen aged between 18 and 68 years. Both verbal and visual data were analysed together using interpretive phenomenological analysis. Analysis: Three themes focus on challenges and supportive strategies utilised by participants both before their decision to transition and after. All participants expressed significant mental health difficulties before commencing their transition, typically originating from childhood and continuing until they gained access to gender-affirming medical care. Their transition journeys damaged their well-being through resistance and rejection from families and communities, and difficulties navigating healthcare systems. A series of resources which significantly enhanced well-being were also reported. Unconditional acceptance and belonging found within and beyond the trans community, connecting with nature and ultimately progressing with gender-affirming healthcare were key elements in protecting and promoting well-being. Conclusions: The toll on the well-being of trans and other gender-expansive individuals is considerable and recent changes in UK law have exacerbated the hostile environment faced by TGE individuals. Community-based allyship and access to affirmative professional psychological support at all stages is vital. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 506 KB  
Article
Legislative Debate-Attributed Suicidality Among LGBTQ+ Adults: The Buffering Effect of Community Belongingness
by Keith J. Watts, Shawndaya S. Thrasher, Laneshia R. Conner, Nicole Campbell, Louis G. Baser, DeKeitra Griffin, Sydney P. Howard, Missy Spears and Justin X. Moore
Healthcare 2026, 14(2), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14020278 - 22 Jan 2026
Viewed by 987
Abstract
Background: In recent years, the sociopolitical landscape in the United States has shifted due to an increase in state-level legislation regarding LGBTQ+ rights, a trend that has been particularly pronounced in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. While the mental health impacts of enacted laws [...] Read more.
Background: In recent years, the sociopolitical landscape in the United States has shifted due to an increase in state-level legislation regarding LGBTQ+ rights, a trend that has been particularly pronounced in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. While the mental health impacts of enacted laws are increasingly documented, a critical gap remains in understanding the psychological toll of the legislative debates themselves—the prolonged periods of public discourse surrounding the restriction of rights. Methods: Utilizing data from the 2025 Queer Kentucky Survey (N = 817), this exploratory study examined the association between LGBTQ+ community belongingness and acute suicidality attributed specifically to anti-LGBTQ+ legislative debates. Data were derived from a non-probability snowball sample. Binary logistic regression models that adjusted for age, race, gender identity, education, and income were utilized. Results: Prevalence of debate-attributed suicidality was alarmingly high: 59.7% of the sample attributed increased suicidal thoughts, and 44.1% attributed a suicide attempt, specifically to the legislative debates. LGBTQ+ belongingness was a robust protective correlate, associated with significantly lower odds of both suicidal thoughts (OR = 0.61, p < 0.001) and attempts (OR = 0.41, p < 0.001). Analyses further revealed divergent risk for suicidality across demographic characteristics. Conclusions: Findings are consistent with the interpretation that legislative debates may function as distinct structural stressors associated with suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts. While community belongingness may offer a critical buffer, the elevated risks among Transgender and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) populations highlight the need for intersectional, structural interventions beyond individual resilience. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 275 KB  
Article
Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Associated with Sexual Practices, Psychoactive Substance Use and Sexually Transmitted Infections Among HIV PrEP Users
by Marcos Morais Santos Silva, Lucas Cardoso dos Santos, Mayara Maria Souza de Almeida and Lucia Yasuko Izumi Nichiata
Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1841; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151841 - 29 Jul 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1312
Abstract
HIV disproportionately affects key populations (MSM, transgender people, sex workers and psychoactive substance users), who face greater social vulnerability and limited healthcare access. This study aimed at analyzing sexual orientation and gender identity and their association with sexual practices, sexually transmitted infections and [...] Read more.
HIV disproportionately affects key populations (MSM, transgender people, sex workers and psychoactive substance users), who face greater social vulnerability and limited healthcare access. This study aimed at analyzing sexual orientation and gender identity and their association with sexual practices, sexually transmitted infections and psychoactive substance use among PrEP users. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2018 and June 2021 with 736 Brazilian PrEP users from a health service in São Paulo. Sociodemographic data, sexual behaviors, STI history (past 3 months) and psychoactive substances use (past 3 months) were extracted from clinical records. The associations were analyzed using binomial logistic regression (p < 0.05). Results: Most of the participants were cisgender men (93.4%) and homosexual (84.8%), with a mean age of 34.9 years old. Condomless sex was reported by 98.5%, and 18.4% had some recent sexually transmitted infection, mainly syphilis. Psychoactive substance use was reported by 55.4%, especially marijuana, club drugs, erectile stimulants and poppers. Transgender and cisgender women were more likely to report sex work and crack use. Homosexual and bisexual participants had higher odds of using erectile stimulants. Conclusions: The study reveals key links between gender, sexual orientation and risk behaviors, highlighting the need for inclusive, targeted prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
14 pages, 470 KB  
Article
Sexual Dysfunction in the Life Cycle of Women: Implications for Psychological Health
by Samet Kırat
Healthcare 2025, 13(11), 1268; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13111268 - 27 May 2025
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 8510
Abstract
Objective: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a prevalent but frequently overlooked condition that adversely affects women’s quality of life and psychological well-being. This study aimed to examine the relationship between SD and depression, anxiety, and stress levels during premenopausal, pregnancy, and postmenopausal. Methods: This [...] Read more.
Objective: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a prevalent but frequently overlooked condition that adversely affects women’s quality of life and psychological well-being. This study aimed to examine the relationship between SD and depression, anxiety, and stress levels during premenopausal, pregnancy, and postmenopausal. Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional study included 300 women aged 18–70 who presented with SD symptoms to a tertiary care gynecology outpatient clinic. Participants were categorized into premenopausal, pregnant, and postmenopausal groups. Sexual function was assessed using the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and psychological status was evaluated with the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify risk factors associated with SD. Results: The results showed that SD prevalence varied across life stages, with the highest rate (96%) observed in postmenopausal women. Significant decreases were found in all FSFI subscales, particularly lubrication and orgasm, during the postmenopausal period (p < 0.001). Although DASS-21 total scores did not differ significantly between groups (p = 0.227), severe stress was more prevalent in premenopausal women (p = 0.018). Univariate logistic regression revealed that older age, higher parity, and menopause increased SD risk (p < 0.001), while employment (p = 0.006), higher education (p = 0.012), and pregnancy (p < 0.001) were protective factors. Multivariate analysis identified parity as the only independent variable significantly increasing SD risk (p = 0.011). Weak but significant negative correlations were found between FSFI total score and DASS-21 total (r = −0.137, p = 0.018), anxiety (r = −0.135, p = 0.019), and depression (r = −0.176, p = 0.002) scores. Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of individualized assessment and treatment approaches for women’s sexual health across different life stages, considering the influence of various biological, psychological, and social factors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 334 KB  
Article
Perceived Homonegativity and Psychological Distress in Gay Men in Brazil: Does Skin Color Matter?
by Felipe Alckmin-Carvalho, Renata Della Torre, Iara Teixeira, Jóni Ledo, António Oliveira, Lúcia Yasuko Izumi Nichiata and Henrique Pereira
Healthcare 2025, 13(9), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13091030 - 30 Apr 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2214
Abstract
Homonegativity is associated with several adverse physical and mental health outcomes in gay men. However, the intersection between homonegativity and racism remains little investigated in Brazil. The aim of this study was to assess, in a sample of cisgender Brazilian gay men, associations [...] Read more.
Homonegativity is associated with several adverse physical and mental health outcomes in gay men. However, the intersection between homonegativity and racism remains little investigated in Brazil. The aim of this study was to assess, in a sample of cisgender Brazilian gay men, associations between skin color, homonegativity, psychological distress, and socioeconomic variables. Method: A cohort of 229 Brazilian gay men, 151 (66%) white and 78 (34%) black or brown were assessed. Participants completed the Internalized Homophobia Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory-II, and the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory. Results: In the general sample, high levels of homonegativity, symptoms of depression, and trait and state anxiety were found, particularly among young and low-income individuals. Black and brown participants reported significantly higher levels of trait and state anxiety, but not depression or homonegativity. Black and brown skin color were a predictor of trait and state anxiety, but not of homonegativity or depression. Conclusions: The high levels of psychological distress and homonegativity found in the general sample indicate the importance of developing preventive interventions of racial discrimination and sexual prejudice for the general community and psychoeducational and therapeutic interventions for Brazilian gay men, regardless of skin color. They also suggest the relevance of customizing these interventions to meet the specificities of black/brown Brazilian gay men, a population doubly exposed to the burden of stigma, considering the intersection between racial and sexual stigma in the Brazilian sociocultural reality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health)
Back to TopTop