Genital self-image as predictor of sexual dysfunction in women with pelvic organ prolapse in Indonesia

Abstract

Background: The incidence of sexual dysfunction increases in women with pelvic organ prolapse. In addition to physical factors, other important components that influence each other in sexual dysfunction are psychological aspects and genital self-image. Sociocultural factors also affect individual sexuality and sexual behavior. Until now, there are no data and the relationship between genital self-image and sexual dysfunction in pelvic organ prolapse is not known in Indonesia. Objective: This study aims to analyze the correlation of genital self-image with sexual dysfunction in women with pelvic organ prolapse. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 113 consecutive women with pelvic organ prolapse were selected in urogynecology referral centers in Jakarta. Demographic data, physical examination, and guided interviews were filled in to complete the Female Sexual Function Index and Female Genital Self-Image Scale-7 questionnaires. Preliminary research has been carried out in the form of language translation and cultural validation of the Indonesian version of the Female Genital Self-Image Scale-7 questionnaires. Results: There is a significant correlation between genital self-image and sexual dysfunction, where the lower Female Genital Self-Image Scale-7 score significantly predicts the lower Female Sexual Function Index score ( p < 0.000; odds ratio: 14.17). Conclusion: Genital self-image is the main variable that affects sexual function in women with pelvic organ prolapse. It is necessary to evaluate and treat genital self-image because sexual function is an integrated component of quality of life.

Беременность И Роды В Условиях Генитального Пролапса: Клиническое Наблюдение

“…Наряду с этим, у женщин с ГП отмечается рост частоты сексуальной дисфункции до 68,1%, что может влиять на психоэмоциональное состояние женщин и качество жизни [10,11].…”

Relationship Involving Sexual Function, Distress Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, and Female Genital Self-Image

“…8 Among women with POP, there is a relationship involving the SF, the GSI and the severity of the POP, as the concern about showing the prolapsed genitalia to the sexual partner during sexual activity involving penetration and oral sex generates fear and insecurity in the woman, which contributes to a worse SF, especially in terms of sexual desire and satisfaction. 7 Although studies on the relationship involving the SF, female GSI and PFD is scarce in the literature, 7,8 understanding the impact of the SF and the distress symptoms caused by PFD on female GSI is necessary, because the PFD distress symptoms affect the quality of sex life. 9 Once health professionals have a better understanding of this relationship, they can promote care and treatment strategies aimed at this population.…”

“…This can lead to cases of depression, decreased sexual activity, social isolation, and decreased quality of life. 3 7 8 9 It seems that distress symptoms, including those caused by PFD, as well as anxiety, and depression, negatively affect female GSI. 8 Among women with POP, there is a relationship involving the SF, the GSI and the severity of the POP, as the concern about showing the prolapsed genitalia to the sexual partner during sexual activity involving penetration and oral sex generates fear and insecurity in the woman, which contributes to a worse SF, especially in terms of sexual desire and satisfaction.…”

“… 8 Among women with POP, there is a relationship involving the SF, the GSI and the severity of the POP, as the concern about showing the prolapsed genitalia to the sexual partner during sexual activity involving penetration and oral sex generates fear and insecurity in the woman, which contributes to a worse SF, especially in terms of sexual desire and satisfaction. 7 …”

“…Although studies on the relationship involving the SF, female GSI and PFD is scarce in the literature, 7 8 understanding the impact of the SF and the distress symptoms caused by PFD on female GSI is necessary, because the PFD distress symptoms affect the quality of sex life. 9 Once health professionals have a better understanding of this relationship, they can promote care and treatment strategies aimed at this population.…”