A Study on Sexual Satisfaction of Circumcised Women: Findings and Challenges

Female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C) is a widespread cultural practice that has significant implications for women's sexual health and well-being. Despite its prevalence, research on the effects of FGM/C on sexual satisfaction remains limited and often contradictory. This study aimed to compare the sexual satisfaction of circumcised and uncircumcised women in the Kurdish population of Iran.

A cross-sectional case-control study was conducted in 2024 involving 300 circumcised and 300 uncircumcised married women visiting health centers in Mahabad, Iran. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire and the Sexual Satisfaction Scale for Women (SSSW), which assesses various components of sexual satisfaction. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent t-tests and chi-square tests.

The findings revealed that circumcised women had significantly lower sexual satisfaction scores (mean score: 111.99 ± 25.02) compared to uncircumcised women (mean score: 120.96 ± 23.63), with significant differences across all components of the sexual satisfaction scale. Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that, among circumcised women, age (β = -0.25, p = 0.002), spouse's age (β = -0.22, p = 0.005), duration of marriage (β = -0.21, p = 0.006), and number of children (β = -0.14, p = 0.042) were significant negative predictors of sexual satisfaction. In contrast, among uncircumcised women, none of the demographic predictors reached statistical significance.

This study highlights the adverse effects of FGM/C on women's sexual satisfaction, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and intervention strategies to address this public health issue. Further research is essential to explore the broader implications of FGM/C on women's health and relationships.