The effects of the Ex-PLISSIT-model on improving sexual function and sexual quality of life in individuals with acquired disability and chronic illnesses:

Abstract

Background: The Ex-PLISSIT model is a cyclical approach to sexual health counseling which makes it possible for healthcare professionals to revisit different levels of the therapy as they see fit. Chronic illnesses and acquired disability affect sexual health impacting quality of life due to multiple factors related to the physical, physiological and psychological factors related to diseases progression as well as disability. This with no doubt increases the need to ad-dress sexual matters for this demography to promote sexual function and sexual quality of life. Aim: The aim of the thesis is to explore the effectiveness of the Ex-PLISSIT model in improving sexual function and quality of life among individuals with acquired disability and chronic ill-ness. Method: Literature review method was used. Data was sought from three scientific databases CINAHL, Medline and PubMed. After completing the data search, screening, and critical appraisal, six articles were selected for analysis. Data was analysed using content analysis. Results: Findings from content analysis revealed that counseling with the EXPLISSIT model led to an improvement in sexual function and sexual quality of life for individuals with ac-quired disability and chronic illnesses. The results also showed the EX-PLISSIT model was limited when it came to physical symptoms related to disease progression. It also revealed the need for ongoing support peaking after two to three months of use and then decreasing after six to 6 months. The model was also applied to women in the study lacking in possibility for applicability with different population groups. Conclusions: Counseling with the EX-PLISSIT model significantly contributed to improving sexual function and sexual quality of life for individuals with acquired disability and chronic illnesses.