My (Un)Sexy World: A Mixed-Methods Study

Sexual dysfunction is frequent problem among women during the postpartum period, which is a sensitive period of life. Body image and genital self-image, which is an aspect of body image, are significant issues. Women with a heightened focus on their physical appearance and negative body image are at an increased risk of experiencing sexual dysfunction linked to their body image. The aim of this research was to examine the relationships among sexual dysfunction, genital self-image, and body perception during sexual intercourse in the postpartum period and to explore the causes of sexual dysfunction. To accomplish these aims, a consecutive, mixed-methods study was performed, consisting of a survey (N = 379) and follow-up interviews (n = 24) with women up to 1 year postpartum in Turkey. Having a vaginal birth, being multipara, and desiring genital plastic surgery are associated with a negative genital self-image and sexual dysfunction in women postpartum. Negative genital self-image was also found to be associated with sexual dysfunction. When examined in-depth, complications during birth and the postpartum period (e.g., perineal trauma, episiotomy, lacerations, stitches), combined with preexisting problems, contributed to sexual dysfunction in women postpartum. The postpartum period is often a very sensitive time, during which women's lives may change completely. Birth complications that may affect their sexual lives and women's perceptions about their genital organs may be related to sexual dysfunction. Genital self-image needs to be addressed when providing postpartum care.