Sexual experiences and quality of life in Turkish women using methods of contraception

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the sexual experiences and quality of life in women using methods of contraception. The sample of this descriptive study consisted of 259 women. The data were collected by the Personal Information Form, the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASES) and the World Health Organisation Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF). It was found that 35.1% of the women use condoms, 30.1% of them use the Intrauterine Device (IUD), 22.0% had problems using the method and 39% had the side effects while using the method. There was a statistically significant difference between the state of having problems using the methods and quality of life average scores and between the state of having side effects and sexual life and quality of life average scores (p < .05).Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? Sexual problems are common health problems among women and can lead to loss of self-esteem in women, depression and emotional stress.What do the results of this study add? Women who experience problems using a contraception method have a lower quality of life. Sexual dysfunctions were higher among those who experienced side effects of the methods, quality of life scores were lower.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Health professionals should provide information and counselling about possible problems or side effects and ways to cope with these problems or side effects.