DETERMINING PREGNANT WOMEN`S BODY IMAGE PERCEPTIONS AND THEIR IMPACT ON SEXUAL RESPONSE DURING PREGNANCY

Problem Statement: Body image refers to how individuals perceive and feel about their own bodies. It significantly influences various aspects of life, including sexual experiences. Individuals with positive body image experience less body-related anxiety during sexual activities and can focus more on sexual pleasure. The changes that occur in a woman`s body during pregnancy can lead to differences in her perception of body image, which can also affect her sexual response.

Methods: This descriptive study aimed to assess pregnant women`s perceptions of body image and its impact on sexual response during pregnancy. A total of 321 pregnant women attending a university hospital`s antenatal clinic were included in the study. The data were collected using the Body Image in Pregnancy Scale (BIPS) and the Pregnancy Sexual Response Inventory (PSRI). The study received ethical approval from the relevant institutional review board, obtained institutional permission, and obtained informed consent from the participants.

Results: When examining the participants` sexual function before pregnancy, it was found that 33.3% had excellent function, 59.2% had good function, and 7.5% had bad function. During pregnancy, the distribution changed to 11.8% excellent, 54.2% good, 27.4% bad, and 4.0% rubbish. Participants with excellent sexual function during pregnancy had lower average BIPS scores compared to those with rubbish, bad, and good function. There was a weak negative correlation between participants` BIPS scores and their Before Pregnancy Composite Score and During Pregnancy Composite Score. Linear regression analysis indicated that participants` dissatisfaction with strength-related aspects of one’s body (F2), dissatisfaction with complexion (F3), prioritization of appearance over function (F5), dissatisfaction with body parts (F7), and BIPS scores significantly influenced their During Pregnancy Composite Score.

Conclusion: Perception of body image during pregnancy affects sexual experiences. As the perception of body image becomes more negative during pregnancy, it negatively impacts sexual response. Developing strategies to improve pregnant women`s body image perception may also enhance their sexual function. Nurses and physicians providing care for pregnant women play an important role in this regard.