Determining sexual knowledge and the role of sexual beliefs at postpartum period on Turkish women

Abstract

Background:Beliefs and knowledge about sexuality affect sexual life related dynamics in postpartum period. This study was conducted in order to determine postpartum women's knowledge and beliefs about sexuality. Materials and Methods: The study had a descriptive, cross-sectional design. The study sample consisted of 400 women who gave birth in Antalya, Turkey. Data were collected with a data collection form developed by the researchers at face to face interviews. Results:The results of the study showed that 67% of women have right information about the restriction of sexual intercourse at postpartum period and the need of sexuality for women and 30.8% think that sexual intercourse should be resumed before 40 days. But it was determined that the sexual belief about dirtyness of postpartum women and necessity of waiting 40 days to resume sexual intercourse of the women were 88%. The proportion of women receiving information about sexuality at postpartum period were 50.8%. Women's myths about anal/oral intercourse were 67-75%. Conclusion: In conclusion, it was determined that women have lots of myths about postpartum sexuality and women's knowledge is insufficient. It can be recommended that knowledge and beliefs of postpartum women about sexuality should be evaluated and health care should be offered in accordance with their needs.