EFFECT OF MODE OF DELIVERY ON COUPLE'S SEXUAL FUNCTION

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to assess the effect of mode of delivery on couple's sexual function. Methods: Descriptive study design was utilized at Mansoura University Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt. A purposive sample technique consisted of 150 women worked at Mansoura University Hospital (75 for each group of vaginal delivery and caesarean section) and their husbands subjects selected according to inclusion criteria. Data collection lasted 6 months by using (Structured Interview Schedule, Female Sexual Function Index and Male Sexual Function Questionnaire to measure sexual function of the wife and the husband). Results: There were a significant differences between mode of delivery and sexual function of the wives in respect of sexual desire (P=0.010), sexual arousal (P=0.025), and orgasm (P=0.003) and highly significant difference regarding feeling of difference in the vaginal opening (P=0.001). Moreover, there were a significant correlations between mode of delivery and sexual function of the husbands in terms of ejaculation (P=0.005) and level of satisfaction (P=0.040) and highly significant correlation regarding sexual desire (P=0.001) and feeling of difference in the vaginal opening (P=0.001). Conclusion: There were associations between mode of delivery and sexual function of the couple, where caesarean delivery had the better effect on the sexual function than vaginal delivery with and without episiotomy. Recommendations: Health education classes should be implemented for pregnant women regarding the advantages and disadvantages of vaginal and cesarean delivery and Postpartum sexual counseling should be a part of postnatal follow-up.