A Systematic Review of the Application and Effectiveness of the BETTER Model for Sexual Counseling in Women's Health


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Doğan Özdemir N. G., YAVAŞ G., ARIKAN E., Kulakaç Ö.

Sexuality and Disability, vol.44, no.3, 2026 (SSCI, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 44 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s11195-026-09944-y
  • Journal Name: Sexuality and Disability
  • Journal Indexes: Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, Educational research abstracts (ERA), EMBASE, Psycinfo, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Social Science Premium Collection (ProQuest), Biomedical Reference Collection: Corporate Edition (EBSCO), Health Research Premium Collection (ProQuest), Pharma Collection (ProQuest), Psychology & Behavioral Sciences Collection (EBSCO), Sociology Database (ProQuest), Sociology Source Ultimate (EBSCO)
  • Keywords: BETTER model, Quality of life, Sexual counseling, Sexual function, Women's health
  • Open Archive Collection: AVESIS Open Access Collection
  • Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

This systematic review analyzed the effects of sexual counseling based on the BETTER model across various health conditions. A literature search was conducted in four electronic databases databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EBSCO, and Science Direct), resulting in the inclusion of 14 interventional studies. The studies focused on women with diverse health issues, including infertility, breast and cervical cancer, and multiple sclerosis. Our findings indicate that the BETTER model appears to have positive effects on women's sexual health, improving functions, satisfaction, and quality of life while also reducing anxiety and stress. The review also found that the model shows promise in enhancing marital satisfaction and body image. In conclusion, the BETTER model is a promising approach for addressing sexual health challenges in women. Future research is needed to explore its effects on couples and diverse populations to better understand its broader impact.