Sexual Function in Pregnancy in a Nigerian Population: A Prospective Longitudinal Study

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Sexual Health Research
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Limited research exists on sexual dysfunction during pregnancy, contrasting with abundant studies on postpartum issues.
• Understanding pregnancy-related sexual health is crucial for providing evidence-based counseling to women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of pregnancy trimesters on female sexual function.
• To identify risk factors associated with sexual dysfunction during pregnancy.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study involving 270 pregnant women in Enugu, Nigeria.
• Validated questionnaires assessed sexual function across three trimesters, with each woman serving as her own control.
• Statistical analyses included ANOVA for comparing scores and logistic regression for risk factor identification.

Main Results:

• Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) scores significantly decreased from the first to the second and third trimesters.
• Coital frequency declined across trimesters, with lower rates in the second and third trimesters compared to the first.
• The prevalence of sexual dysfunction was 50.7%, with increased risk linked to age ≥35, multiparity, and previous cesarean section.

Conclusions:

• Sexual function significantly declines throughout pregnancy in this Nigerian cohort.
• High rates of sexual dysfunction necessitate increased attention during antenatal care.
• Addressing obstetric risk factors may help mitigate pregnancy-related sexual dysfunction.