(048) Management of Sexual Dysfunction: Can Color Scheme in Areas of Intimacy be a Possible Management Intervention?

Introduction There are several psychological factors that can affect sexual dysfunction, such as stress, anxiety, or depression. Evaluating color schemes in areas of intimacy may be one of the potential ways to address the psychological issues contributing to the sexual dysfunction. That is, suggesting to those with sexual dysfunction an evaluation of the color scheme in their usual area of intimacy should be considered. Further, understanding the effect of color on sexual dysfunction may be important when couples decorate their bedrooms as it can allow couples to understand which colors to avoid and which colors to incorporate in this process. Objectives To review the role of color in psychological wellness. Methods A systematic literature review was conducted on Google Scholar to examine data on the role of color and psychological health. Results There were scant data that explored the role of color in the scientific literature. Further, although none of the research specifically linked color to sexual performance, there were scant data suggesting color may have an indirect impact through improving psychological wellness. Data from two specific studies, one done in Japan and the other in Switzerland did report that both suicide and aggressive behavior were impacted by color. In Tokyo, Japan, in response to the escalating suicide rates, an initiative was undertaken to situate blue LED lamps in about 71 Tokyo train stations. The installation of blue lights was nothing new in Japan and, in fact, blue lights had been installed in the streets in order to reduce crime rates. With the installation of these blue lights there was reported an 84% decrease in suicides. A Swiss study, conducted in a prison, sought to evaluate which colors decreased aggression amongst inmates, specifically male inmates. In order to do so, certain Swiss prisons were painted in a pink color in order to target inmates’ “masculinity.” There was a specific shade of pink from this study which was deemed to be the most effective and it was named ‘Cool Down Pink.’ The methods used to quantify inmate aggression were blood pressure and physical observations. By using the color pink, these Swiss prisons were able to decrease aggression amongst their inmates. Conclusions Based on limited research, it appears that color may have a psychological impact on an individual. Although no studies have addressed color and sexual wellness, if psychological wellness is improved, it follows that sexual dysfunction may also improve. The color blue from the Tokyo study infers that this color may reduce depression or even stress and allow for a calm feeling in the mind. When taking sexual dysfunction into account, it follows that if couples incorporate more blue into their areas of intimacy, that sexual function may improve though decreasing anxiety, stress, or depression. Color in areas of intimacy is an area that should be furthered explored, as bedroom color may positively impact sexual function. Disclosure