Prevalence of dispareunia in women within postpartum one-year period and related factors

Abstract

This study aimed to determine prevalence of postpartum dyspareunia and related factors.In cross-sectional and descriptive study, a questionnaire was used to collect data. Universe of the study was composed of all women in the first postpartum one year, Sampling consisted of 246 women in postpartum one-year period admitted to public healtcare centers in Konya, Turkey.While the rates of experiencing dispareunia were 20.8% in prenatal period, 22.9% during pregnancy and 36.6% in the first intercourse after delivery, the rate was found as 41.5% in postpartum period. According to the results of logistic regression analysis; decision given by partners to start intercourse, worrying about intercourse, having challenges with the partner and experiencing dispareunia during pregnancy were found to be important risk factors. Dyspareunia seems to be a major challenge affecting the sexual life of women in postpartum period. During postpartum follow-ups, and training and counseling may be suggested.