SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION AMONG FEMALE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS INNIGERIA: PERMISSION, LIMITED INFORMATION, SPECIFICSUGGESTIONS, INTENSIVE THERAPY (PLISSIT) AS A SOLUTION

Abstract

The study assessed the effectiveness of the PLISSIT model in managing female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among
university students in Nigeria. The study employed a prospective cohort design, involving 400 students from a
university in Nigeria. The population consisted of female university students, with a sample of 400 participants
selected using a systematic sampling technique. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire was used
to assess FSD, with a score ≤26.55 indicating FSD. The FSFI has been validated and shown to be reliable in
assessing FSD, with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.911. Results in hypothesis 1 revealed that there is a significant
prevalence of female sexual dysfunction (FSD) among female university students in Nigeria. Results in hypothesis
2 revealed that the PLISSIT model has a significant positive effect on sexual function (SMD: 1.677; 95% CI
0.668, 2.686; P < 0.05) and “sexual and communication satisfaction” sub-dimension of sexual life quality (SMD:
0.748; 95% CI 0.022, 1.475; P < 0.05). However, there is no significant difference in sexual satisfaction (SMD:
0.425; 95% CI: -0.335, 1.184; P > 0.05) and quality of sexual life scores between the PLISSIT and EX-PLISSIT
groups and the comparison groups. Results in hypothesis 3 revealed that the interaction term (PLISSIT model x
Age) is significant (B = 0.551, t = 6.65, p < 0.001). Furthermore, results in hypothesis 3 revealed that the
interaction term (PLISSIT model x Relationship Status) is significant (B = 0.833, t = 3.422, p = 0.00084). The
researchers recommend integrating the PLISSIT model into university services, training healthcare providers, and
conducting awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and promote open discussions about sexual health.