Female sexual function and satisfaction in the postpartum period: structural equation modelling analysis

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Sexual Medicine
• Psychology

Background:

• Postpartum period often involves decreased sexual function and satisfaction for couples.
• Understanding factors influencing sexual well-being after childbirth is crucial for maternal health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the relationship between domains of the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and sexual satisfaction in postpartum women.
• To identify specific aspects of sexual function that impact overall sexual satisfaction post-childbirth.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional study involving 500 women (aged 18-42) in Kerman, Iran.
• Data collected via self-assessment questionnaires: FSFI and Larson Sexual Satisfaction Questionnaire.
• Structural equation modeling used for comprehensive data analysis.

Main Results:

• A significant positive association was found between FSFI scores and sexual satisfaction (β=1.231, P<0.001).
• Inadequate income negatively impacted sexual function, while earlier resumption of sexual activity showed a positive association.
• Higher parity (number of children) was significantly linked to lower sexual satisfaction (P=0.028).

Conclusions:

• Postpartum sexual satisfaction is strongly correlated with sexual function, particularly desire, arousal, orgasm, and pain.
• Higher relationship satisfaction is associated with increased sexual activity and improved sexual function.
• Addressing financial stability and promoting timely sexual health support may enhance postpartum sexual well-being.