The Effect of Family Planning Methods Used by Women of Reproductive Age on Their Sexual Life

摘要

Abstract The family planning (FP) methods used by women of reproductive age can have negative or positive influences on the sex lives of couples. Couples should be aware of the effects of the FP method they use on their sex lives to be able to improve the quality. This descriptive study was carried out to determine the effects of contraceptive methods on the sex lives of women. The study was conducted at the Family Planning Center and Gynecology Clinics of an Obstetrics and Gynecology and Children's Hospital. The sampling comprised of 366 women who had applied to these centers. Data collection forms generated based on the literature and the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX) were used as data collection tools. The average ASEX scores were similar for women using the withdrawal method as a traditional method (: 13.75), RIA as a modern method (: 13.93), condoms (: 13.30), and oral contraceptives (: 13.37), were found to be similar (p > 0.05). Since the average scores of ASEX were higher than 11, problems in sexual life were determined at high levels. The difference between ASEX average scores and duration of family planning, problems due to the method, duration of marriage, number of pregnancies and living infants, frequency of sexual intercourse, communication between partners, and self-declared sexual perception; was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The study found higher than normal average ASEX scores and we therefore suggest counseling services, provided by healthcare staff, on sexual health and family planning that include information on FP methods and their effects on sex life.