Sexual dysfunction is a group of disorders which affect male and female sexual functioning and negatively impact self-esteem, sexual self efficacy and well being. For women, sexual dysfunction may include sexual interest and arousal disorder, orgasmic disorder, Genito-pelvic pain penetration disorder and substance and medication induced sexual dysfunction. For men, sexual dysfunction may include erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation or rapid ejaculation, delayed ejaculation, hypoactive sexual desire disorder and substance and medication induced sexual dysfunction.
As part of psychosexual counselling, varied integrative approaches are used quite often, including brief cognitive behavioural therapy, which extends over 6 to 8 sessions. Interventions might also include the use of mindful compassion for varying psychosexual presentations, which are practised in some National Health Services.
An additional adjunct intervention might include psychosexual education. Psychosexual education is diverse and provides information and resources on all aspects of sexual functioning, guidelines and motivational strategies for engaging in varied sexual activities, sexual intimacy and anatomy. Psychosexual education may provide information on sexual health knowledge. These can be delivered in various formats, such as educational programs, face to face education, and internet based and virtual interventions. Recent applications have centred on e learning, including computer based, online and offline presentations. Using an e learning delivery in healthcare services challenges the barriers of resources, time and space. Talking about sex might prove discomforting or embarrassing; for some, cultural, gender or religious factors might further compound open dialogue on sexual matters. Using an e learning approach might target a wider geographic demographic, making it easier for diverse people to access evidence based information whilst minimising discomfort or embarrassment.
One such e learning delivery system is smartphone applications. Most apps included Kegel exercises and working with thoughts and emotions.
Artificial Intelligence has recently been incorporated into apps to improve user experience and efficiency. Artificial intelligence can identify trends in sexual health, behaviour, and attitude. Artificial Intelligence can teach sexuality, sexual health, and behaviour with limited or no human interaction needed.
Limited evidence based psychosexual educational apps are incorporating artificial intelligence to support sexual functioning among men and women. More so among those on a waitlist for National Health Service psychosexual therapeutic support. Indeed, despite the diverse range of biopsychosocial approaches provided by the National Health Service to support sexual dysfunction, waiting lists can be up to 6 months. Therefore, a waiting period without support might further impact sexual function, sexual health, well being and quality of life.
This initial study will target patients on the National Health Service waiting list for psychosexual therapy. This will consist of a psychosexual education app integrating artificial intelligence. Pre test post test measurements will be taken at 0, 8, and 16 weeks, aligning with National Health Service waiting periods. Outcomes will assess well being, quality of life, cognitive mindfulness, sexual functioning, and whether the app was sufficient for participants difficulties. This might further reduce the strain on National Health Service resources.
It is hypothesised that app use from weeks 0, 8, and 16 follow up will improve sexual functioning, well being, quality of life, and cognitive mindfulness.
