Sexual attitudes and sexual functions during pregnancy: A comparative study

Sexuality is a multidimensional, not shallow, concept that involves the biological make-up and desires of women and men. It is a complex process that is shaped by the culture to which the individual belongs and the social conditions in which he/she lives.

This descriptive and cross-sectional study aims to determine the sexual function status and sexual attitudes of Turkish and Syrian pregnant women who admitted to birth clinics in Turkey to investigate the relationship between pregnancy processes and some variables.

This descriptive and cross-sectional study population (n:200) consisted of Turkish and Syrian pregnant women who met the research inclusion criteria, agreed to participate in the research and admitted to the Y City Education and Research Hospital in Turkey.

In the study, the mean "Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)" score of Turkish pregnant women was found to be (20.83 ± 9.28), whereas the FSFI score of Syrian pregnant women was (16.28 ± 11.45), Considering the Attitude Scale Towards Sexuality (ASTS), Turkish women score was found to be (123.77 ± 45.35), in contrast the ASTS score of Syrian pregnant women was (94.74 ± 43.69).

Since sexual myths can have a negative impact on pregnant women's sexual functions, clinicians should be knowledgeable about sexuality and sexual myths.

Regarding the limitations, first, the sample size was small. Second study results can only be generalized to this group. Last limitation, spouses of the women who participated in the study did not participate in the study.

The study found that there is a difference in the sexual dysfunction and sexual attitudes of the women, depending on to be the refugee and socio-cultural structure.