Abstract
PurposeThis work focuses on the experiences and practices of obstetrician–gynecologists (ob–gyns) with patients suffering from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and issues with their aesthetics, specifically focusing on female genitalia. Ob–gyns are likely to play an important role in the recognition and treatment of women facing such issues.MethodsThis study took a qualitative, explorative approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 ob–gyns about their experiences with patients who presented symptoms of BDD of female genitalia, their treatments, and interest in further education and supportive material. Interviews were analyzed through qualitative content analysis.ResultsA categorization system was created. The results showed that the participating ob–gyns are often confronted with genital dissatisfaction of patients. The study sample demonstrated a lack of mental health literacy concerning BDD. The treatments that the ob–gyns of this sample suggested for BDD of female genitalia were not in line with what evidence suggests. Finally, interest in further education and supportive material for consultation was evidenced in this sample.ConclusionsThe findings encourage further studies to identify the recognition of BDD concerning genitalia or etiological factors. Furthermore, practical implications (e.g., need of supportive material) can be derived from the results.
Highlights
Body dysmorphic disorder is a psychological disorder defined by distressing preoccupation with a perceived defect in one’s appearance [1]
Literature on body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) concerning female genitalia is rather scarce [5; 6], research on dissatisfaction with genitalia that might be subclinical is related to BDD [1] and can give insight to this topic
The data are local to Swiss ob–gyns only, but since previous data on issues of BDD and labiaplasty are largely missing the data will be discussed with reference to global data
Summary
Body dysmorphic disorder is a psychological disorder defined by distressing preoccupation with a perceived defect in one’s appearance [1]. The criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) V are: preoccupation with appearance, distress about appearance, repetitive behaviors, or mental acts (e.g., comparing or asking for reassurance) in response to concerns, and concerns cannot be explained by any other mental disorder [2]. The term ‘female genitalia’ is defined here as female external genitalia. Even though this term will be used, the authors of this work recognize that ‘female genitalia’ is not an organ only cisgender women have. Literature on BDD concerning female genitalia is rather scarce [5; 6], research on dissatisfaction with genitalia that might be subclinical is related to BDD [1] and can give insight to this topic
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