Postpartum sexual dysfunction in resource-limited settings: a cross-sectional study of maternal sexual health.

Authors

Melaku Tafere Negash, Girmachew Tesfaye Agegnehu, Chalie Tadie Tsehay, Eniyew Assimie Alemu

Published in

BMJ public health. Volume 4. Issue 3. Pages e004459. Epub Sep 22, 2026.

Abstract

Postpartum sexual health is a crucial aspect of maternal well-being, yet many women worldwide experience postpartum female sexual dysfunction (PFSD). This study aimed to assess its prevalence and investigate the major influencing factors.
An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 April to 30 June 2024. A total of 400 mothers were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using a semi-structured, pretested, self-administered questionnaire and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) to assess sexual dysfunction. Data were entered and managed using EpiData V.4.6 and analysed using SPSS V.25. A multivariable logistic regression model was fitted and adjusted ORs (AORs) with 95% CIs were reported. A p value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.
400 mothers participated, yielding a 97.6% response rate for data analysis. The prevalence of PFSD was found to be 56%. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified several factors significantly associated with PFSD. These factors included maternal age over 40 years (AOR=6.93; 95% CI 1.45 to 32.99), absence of antenatal care (AOR=2.33; 95% CI 1.33 to 4.08), instrumental-assisted delivery (AOR=7.11; 95% CI 2.72 to 18.90), postpartum maternal depression (AOR=4.34; 95% CI 3.23 to 7.78) and episiotomy (AOR=1.73; 95% CI 1.03 to 2.89).
More than half of the study participants experienced PFSD. Advanced maternal age, episiotomy, lack of antenatal care during pregnancy, instrumental-assisted delivery and postpartum depression were negatively associated with postpartum sexual function. Given its high prevalence and impact, PFSD represents a significant public health concern that warrants a multidisciplinary approach to promote safe postpartum sexual health and improve maternal well-being in the community.

PMID:
42781554
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 25 Sep 2026.

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