Why Iranian women undergo aesthetic genital surgeries? A qualitative study

Abstract

Purpose: In recent years the prevalence of cosmetic genital surgery in women has increased. This qualitative study has attempted to explore the rationale behind the decision of undergoing aesthetic genital surgeries in a sample of seven married women who had undergone such surgeries in Iran (Tehran).Methods: Seven in-depth semi-structured narrative interviews were conducted, and the results were analyzed via thematic analysis techniques.Results: Three main themes emerged, namely, 'individual problems', 'Couple relationships', and 'Physician-Patient Relationships'. Six sub-themes that were commonly repeated were mental health issues, inadequate sexuality education, imbalanced couple dynamics, communication difficulties, simultaneous surgical intervention in the peri-genital region, and imbalanced power relations.Conclusions: It seems that an interplay of different personal and interpersonal issues, facilitates women's decision-making process and propels women in choosing genital aesthetic surgeries. Thus, women are advised to consult with a psychosexual therapist, a clinical psychologist, or a psychiatrist before making any decision about undergoing cosmetic surgery.

Keywords

• aesthetic genital surgery
• physician-patient relationship
• couple dynamics