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

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 socio-demographic 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. Copyright (C) 2021 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the International Society for Sexual Medicine.

Automated summary

During the national quarantine imposed by the Greek government, sexual function and relationship quality of couples did not appear to be negatively impacted. Living with a partner and being in a steady relationship may enhance satisfaction with sexual activity and emotional security.