The Relationship Between Body Image, Female Genital Self-Image, and Sexual Function Among First-Time Mothers

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to examine the extent to which perceived changes in weight, body satisfaction, body-image self-consciousness, and genital self-image could be used to predict sexual function scores. A total of 168 primiparous women completed the cross-sectional, web-based survey. Significant correlations were found between body satisfaction, body-image self-consciousness, and female genital self-image and sexual function. Multivariate regression analysis suggests body image and genital self-image combined account for 14.1% of the variance in overall sexual function. Women should have opportunities to discuss body changes throughout pregnancy.