Postpartum Sexual Function and Dyspareunia in Patients with COVID-19

INTRODUCTION: The study aimed to better understand the influence of COVID-19 infection on the sexual health of postpartum women and to add new information to the literature, which lacks sufficient data on this subject.
METHODS: The study consisted of a control group of 70 postpartum women diagnosed with COVID-19 and 71 healthy postpartum women. The groups had similar demographics. The “Carol Postpartum Sexual Function and Dyspareunia Assessment Scale” was used in this study (NCT04389489).
RESULTS: The Carol Postpartum Sexual Function and Dyspareunia Assessment Scale, including the libido, lubrication area, pain area during penetration, and pain area during vaginal intercourse dimensions, was used to assess the two groups, which had similar demographic characteristics; scores were meaningfully lower in the case group (p <0.05). The discomfort or pain when touching the vulva and discomfort and pain after vaginal intercourse dimension scores did not vary significantly between the study and control groups (p >0.05).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: This study addresses the issue of insufficient data on the effect of COVID-19 infection on the sexual health of postpartum women. Health professionals should be aware of the effects of COVID-19 infection on women's sexual existence and provide appropriate therapy services.