The Relationship between Sexual Function and Sexual Self-Disclosure in Women after Childbirth

Document Type : Original Article (s)

Authors

1 MSc Student, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery AND Patient Safety Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

4 Professor, Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Health AND Research Center for Social Factors Affecting Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

Background: Hormonal and physical changes during postpartum have significant effects on women's sexual function. Sexual function is directly related to sexual satisfaction. Couple conversation about sexual issues, desires, and preferences has a significant impact on marital relationships. This study aimed to assess the relationship between sexual function and sexual self-disclosure in women after childbirth.Methods: This correlation study was performed on 160 women referring to Mashhad City health centers, Iran, in the period from 4 weeks to 6 months postpartum. The research instruments consisted of demographic and sexual characteristics questionnaire, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and Hurlbert Sexual Self-Disclosure Questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, and Kruskal-Wallis and Spearman correlation tests with significance level of P < 0.050.Findings: Spearman's correlation coefficient between sexual self-disclosure and sexual function with an amount of 0.600 was significant (P < 0.001).Conclusion: Considering the positive correlation between sexual function and sexual self-disclosure after childbirth, it is suggested that, in the context of postpartum care, midwives use different counseling methods to increase women's sexual self-disclosure.

Keywords


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