Fears, Beliefs and Practices of Pregnant Women in Saudi Arabiaregarding their Sexual Health during Pregnancy and after Birth

Abstract

Background: A woman’s sexual life during pregnancy is subject to many physiological and psychological changes. In this regard, there are inconsistencies in some aspects, while some are yet to be explored. This study aimed to obtain a detailed account of the fears, beliefs and practices of pregnant women and their associated factors in Saudi Arabia regarding their sexual life during pregnancy and after birth.

Methods: A convenience sample of pregnant women (n=439) attending antenatal clinics at purposefully selected hospitals completed a self-report questionnaire of her fears, beliefs and practices regarding her sexual life during pregnancy. This was a cross-sectional study performed by a team of researchers at King Khalid University Hospital from August 2021 to August 2022.

Results
The majority of the pregnant women recorded
•     A decrease in libido
•     That Kegel exercises improved sexual function
•     That vaginoplasty is important after vaginal delivery
•     Fear of dyspareunia, vaginal laxity, and changes in the sexual relationship
•     Dependence on unverified sources for information regarding female sexual issues. 

A large proportion of the participants
•     Thought that delivery-related vaginal laxity needed medical consultation
•     Thought that vaginal laxity was associated with episiotomy
•     Relied on traditional herbs for managing sexual health issues. 

Among pregnant women in Saudi Arabia, sexual health-related fears, attitudes and practices were associated with age, marital status and educational level, and participants relied on past experience and social media for information.

Conclusion: Decreased libido and painful intercourse are common among pregnant women regardless of parity. Sexual health concerns and education should be part of antenatal care visits.