Efficacy of Group Psychotherapies for the Treatment of Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Systematic Review

Female sexual health care has been highlighted due to the high prevalence of female sexual dysfunctions (FSDs). Previous research indicates that psychotherapy is an effective intervention in the treatment of FSDs, but few studies have tested the effectiveness of group psychotherapy interventions. This systematic review aims to investigate the effectiveness of group psychotherapies in the treatment of FSDs. Six databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Virtual Health Library, PsycINFO, Embase, and Scopus) were searched. Fourteen clinical trials remained for analysis after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The main findings suggest that Group Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (GCBT; d = 0.46–1.92) and Mindfulness-Based Group Therapy (MBGT; d = 0.4–1.04) were the most effective for improving female sexual function. GCBT was also the most effective in treating vulvar pain (d = 0.47–1.39) and pain during intercourse (d = 0.69–1.18). MBGT showed the largest effect sizes in the treatment of sexual desire and interest (d = 0.97–1.29). Therefore, group psychotherapies present promising evidence of efficacy in the treatment of FSDs. However, there are few clinical trials, and new research is needed to verify the effects of these interventions on different contexts and FSDs. Studies are also needed in other countries and cultures, as most clinical trials have been performed in Canada.