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Expectations and experience of labial reduction: a qualitative study.
R Bramwell1, C Morland, A S Garden
1Division of Clinical Psychology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK. rosb@liv.ac.uk
BJOG : an International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|September 20, 2007
Summary
Women seeking labial reduction surgery often have unrealistic expectations driven by cultural norms. Their experiences highlight a need for better psychosocial support within gynecological services.
Area of Science:
- Gynecological Surgery
- Female Genital Appearance
- Psychosocial Health
Background:
- Labial reduction surgery is increasingly sought by women.
- Understanding women's motivations and experiences is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore women's reasons for undergoing labial reduction surgery.
- To investigate their expectations and lived experiences post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective qualitative study.
- Semi-structured interviews with six women.
- Conducted in a British National Health Service Hospital.
Main Results:
- Women perceived their pre-surgery genitalia as 'defective' seeking 'normality'.
- Surgery did not always meet expectations regarding sexual life improvements.
- Accessing surgery involved conflicting messages about genital appearance.
Conclusions:
- Women's expectations for labial reduction surgery can be unrealistic, influenced by cultural norms.
- There is a potential value in psychosocial interventions within gynecological services.
- Further research is needed due to increasing demand for this procedure.
