Sexual dysfunction and its related factors among pregnant women referred to health centers in Qazvin, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Sexual function is a part of human life and behavior. It is considered a multidimensional phenomenon that it is influenced by various biological, psychological, and social factors. Pregnancy plays an important role in female sexual function and behavior. This study was conducted to investigate the sexual function and to determine the prevalence of sexual dysfunction among pregnant women during the trimesters of pregnancy. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study conducted in 2016 on 150 pregnant women who referred to the health centers affiliated to Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, in Qazvin. Samples were recruited through convenience sampling. For data collection, a personal and midwifery characteristics checklist, the Female Sexual Function Index, and Depression Anxiety, Stress scales were used. Collected data were then analyzed using SPSS using descriptive statistics, one-way ANOVA, and univariate and multivariate regression models. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant for all tests. Results: Thirty-three percent of pregnant women suffered from sexual dysfunction. The mean and standard deviation of the female sexual function score were 44.7 ± 26.11. Sexual dysfunction among pregnant women during the first, second, and third trimesters were 2%, 20%, and 78%, respectively. Sexual function was correlated with gestational age (P < 0.05); however, the mean sexual function score was lower during the third trimester. There was also a significant relationship between sexual function with the mother's age and education. Conclusion: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction during pregnancy was high. Therefore, pregnant women and their spouses need counseling on the physical and mental changes during pregnancy.

Keywords

• pregnancy
• sexual dysfunction
• sexual function