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Effect of mode of delivery on postpartum sexual function: a cross-sectional study
Ismail Bağlar1, ESRA KELES2, Rahime Nida Bayık31Department Of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Of Health Sciences, Kartal Dr. Lütfi Kırdar City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey2Department Of Gynecologic Oncology, University Of Health Sciences, Kartal Lütfi Kırdar City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
3Istanbul Nisantasi University, Department Of Obstetrics And Gynecology, Istanbul, Turkey
INTRODUCTION: Several studies have explored how the type of delivery affects postpartum sexual function. Therefore, the aim of the study to evaluate the relationship between type of delivery and postpartum sexual function.
METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted on postpartum women who delivered at a tertiary hospital between June and December 2019. Clinical and demographic information and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire were obtained from each woman via in-person interview by a trained nurse. Postpartum mothers were divided into three groups: the vaginal birth group, a vaginal birth with episiotomy group, and a cesarean section group.
RESULTS: A total of 240 postpartum women, with a mean age of 28.03 ± 6.02 years were included. Desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, and satisfaction were significantly lower in the vaginal birth group compared to the other groups. The mean pain score of 2.26±1.11 was significantly lower in those who had a cesarean section (p=0.001).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The results of our study indicate that cesarean section was associated with better sexual functioning scores compared to other types of delivery three months postpartum.
Manuscript Language: English