The relationship between body image and sexual satisfaction in women who have undergone hysterectomy.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine the relationship between body image and the level of sexual satisfaction in women who have undergone a hysterectomy.

METHODS

This descriptive study utilized a relational screening model. Conducted between June 2023 and March 2024, the study included a total of 300 sexually active women who had undergone a hysterectomy 6 months prior. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Golombok-Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale, and the Body Image Scale through face-to-face interviews lasting approximately 20-30 min.

RESULTS

The average age of the participating women was 44.4±10.55 years. Of the participants, 96.7% were married and 42.4% had entered menopause. The average score on the Body Image Scale was 81.2±3.8, and the average score on the Golombok-Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale was 33.0±15.1. A positive significant relationship was found between body image and sexual satisfaction (p<0.05). There was also a statistically significant positive relationship between the total scores on the Body Image Scale and the Golombok-Rust Sexual Satisfaction Scale with age and frequency of sexual intercourse (p=0.049, p<0.001, p<0.001, p=0.047, and p=0.014). It was determined that as the age and frequency of sexual intercourse increased, the levels of body image and sexual satisfaction also increased.

CONCLUSION

Our study found that women's self-image is negatively affected, and their level of sexual satisfaction decreases following a hysterectomy.