Factors influencing the Sexual Satisfaction of Iranian Primigravid Women

Pregnancy is often followed by considerable physical and physiologic changes which might lead to some fluctuations in sexual activity and satisfaction. Sexual satisfaction during pregnancy has been shown to affect emotional state and marital relations. In this study, we intend to evaluate sexual satisfaction of Iranian primigravid women and determine the factors that might have an impact on it. Methods and Materials: This cross-sectional study was carried out among primigravid women attending an antenatal clinic of a university hospital in Tehran. Socio-demographic data, pregnancy items and women’s concerns about and knowledge of sexual activity during pregnancy were gathered using a structured questionnaire developed by the researcher. Sexual satisfaction was evaluated using the Index of Sexual Satisfaction (ISS) designed by Hudson (1992). Data were analyzed using SPSS. A total of 230 pregnant women completed the questionnaire. The mean score for sexual satisfaction of the participants was 133.6±11.2 (range: 109-153). Age and the level of educational qualifications of the participants and their partners, their occupation, the length of marriage, and information received about sexual activity during pregnancy from health care providers were found to have a significantly positive correlation with the degree of sexual satisfaction of the pregnant women; whereas unwanted pregnancy, experiencing common pregnancy complications, and having concerns about and fears of complications due to sexual activity during pregnancy were negatively correlated with sexual satisfaction.. The findings of the present study suggest that sexual satisfaction during pregnancy is influenced by several factors including socio-demographic features and, most importantly pregnancy sex education received from a reliable source, i.e., health care providers. Counseling sessions especially regarding pregnancy-related sexual problems during antenatal care visits are highly recommended.