Sexual dysfunctions, depression, anxiety and somatoform disorder among primiparous women with various modes of delivery

The influence of method of delivery on primiparous women’s sexual life and mental health is a significant factor, yet relatively overlooked in Pakistan. The purpose of this study was to examine the occurrence of sexual dysfunctions and depression, anxiety and somatoform among primiparous women. It was a cross sectional (between-group) research design. Three groups of primiparous women i.e. women with normal delivery, operative vaginal delivery and caesarean section were selected via non-probability purposive sampling strategy. A total sample of 180 was taken (Mage= 25.6, SD=3.62) with each group comprised of 60 participants. The measures employed in the current study included Demographic Questionnaire, Female Sexual Functioning Index (FSFI) and Symptom Checklist-Revised (SC-R). Findings yielded through One-way ANOVA indicated that the sexual dysfunctions occurs more in women who have undergone caesarean section as compared to women with normal delivery. Whereas, no profound differences emerged between caesarean section and operative vaginal delivery groups. One-way MANOVA revealed that the probability of depression, anxiety and somatoform disorders was high in caesarean section group as compared to the other two groups. This study has manifold implications for Psychologists, Gynecologists, Social Workers, Policy Makers and other authorities. The current findings call their attention to collaboratively work and identify the potential risk regarding methods of delivery, and in turn take proactive steps to evade excessive surgeries and exterminate the morbidity by devising interventions.