Prevalence of Shukra vega dharana in an Indian population: A cross sectional survey protocol

BACKGROUND: Despite being an important aspect of health and quality of life, individuals tend to suppress natural sexual urge (‘Shukra vega’) due to a variety of factors. Unless managed appropriately through self-regulatory mechanisms, suppressed sexual urge (‘Shukra vega dharana’, SVD) not only causes psychological suffering but may also put other basic needs at risk. Adult, married, males who are either living away from their spouse for long durations or separated or divorced are at a considerably higher risk of developing SVD as compared to others. Considering the recent rise of sexual diseases and sexual violence, it is critical to understand the extent and epidemiology of SVD in this sub-population of India. OBJECTIVE: The study was attempted to understand the extent and epidemiology of SVD in this sub-population of India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: To determine the prevalence of SVD in adult married, male individuals located in Nashik, Ahmadnagar and Thane cities of India who are either living away from their spouse or separated or divorced, a crosssectional, anonymous survey will be conducted among a sample of male individuals meeting eligibility criteria. A multi-stage sampling approach will be used to identify cities/organizations (where the study will be conducted) and participants for the study. Post informed consent, eligible individuals will respond to a survey questionnaire. Responses will be populated in a spreadsheet, analyzed and reported. Understanding extent and epidemiology of SVD in an Indian sub-population will not only facilitate design of future research studies but will also inform health, social and educational policy associated with sex education (training individuals in the appropriate management of sexual urge).