The Impact of Social Distancing Measures Due to COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Function and Relationship Quality of Couples in Greece

Abstract

Introduction: Recent studies have reported that the quarantine imposed in several countries around the world due to Covid-19 affected the sexual function and relationship quality. On the March 23, 2020 the Greek government imposed a national quarantine to contain the spread of the pandemic. The impact of such conditions on sexual function and relationship quality of couples is unknown.

Aim: To investigate sexual function and relationship quality of couples during the quarantine.

Methods: An online anonymous survey was conducted one month post-impose of the quarantine, between the April 21 and the May 3, 2020. Adult respondents in a relationship completed a questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics, structured inquiries regarding sexual activity and quality of relationship, anxiety level, and mood during the quarantine, as well as the IIEF and FSFI indices.

Outcomes: Sexual function was assessed using the Greek versions of the FSFI and IIEF for females and males respectively. Sexual activity using 5 statements regarding frequency of sexual thoughts, masturbation, and intercourse, quality of intercourse and general estimation of the level of sexual function. Participants graded their level of agreement. Relationship quality was assessed using 5 questions regarding communication, company, understanding, tension and general estimation of companionship. Participants graded their level of agreement. Two additional statements were used in order to evaluate mood and the level of anxiety.

Results: A sum of 299 adult heterosexual participants in a relationship participated. Little or no negative impact on sexual function was reported. Increased anxiety and deficient mood were reported only for those with no access to their partner. Being in a steady relationship and living with their partner, but only for couples without children, resulted in satisfaction by sexual activity and enhanced emotional security.

Conclusion: Sexual function and relationship quality appeared as not affected by the quarantine and by the measures of social distancing. Sotiropoulou P, Ferenidou F, Owens D, et al. The Impact of Social Distancing Measures Due to COVID-19 Pandemic on Sexual Function and Relationship Quality of Couples in Greece. Sex Med 2021;9:100364.

Keywords: Covid-19; FSFI; IIEF; Relationship Quality; Sexual Function.

Figure 1

Participants aged 18−28 had a higher level of agreement than those aged 37−44 and 45−74 years old in the statements “I experience more sexual fantasies and thoughts” and “I masturbate more frequently” (P < 0.05). Participant aged 29−36 had a higher level of agreement than those aged 45−74 years old in the statement “Quarantine have benefited my sexual activity”.

Figure 2

Participants with children in the house had a lower level of agreement than those without children in "My partner understand my emotions and supports me” and “I experience more sexual fantasies and thoughts” (P < 0.05).