Female Sexual Dysfunction During Pregnancy: A Case-Control Study

Objective: This prospective study aimed to explore sexual dysfunction during pregnancy by comparing sexual function and depression scores among high-risk pregnant women, healthy pregnant women, and healthy non-pregnant women of reproductive age. Material and Methods: Data were collected from 553 participants who provided complete responses using the sociodemographic and pregnancy history forms, the Female Sexual Function Index, and the Beck Depression Index. Results: Pregnant women, compared to non-pregnant individuals, exhibited significantly lower scores in desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, pain parameters, and total sexual function (p<0.001 for all parameters), with a significantly higher total Beck Depression score (p=0.022). High-risk pregnancies showed even lower scores in desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, pain parameters, and total sexual function (p<0.001 for all parameters), with a significantly higher total Beck Depression score (p=0.003) compared with healthy pregnant participants. Among the 3 groups, high-risk pregnant women had the highest prevalence of sexual dysfunction (p<0.001) and depression symptoms in the Beck Depression scores (p=0.001). The 3rd trimester was identified as the most vulnerable period for sexual dysfunction (p<0.001), while depression symptoms were most common in the 1st trimester (p<0.001). Conclusion: Pregnancy significantly increases the risk of sexual dysfunction and depression. Concurrent conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and thyroid dysfunction intensify these challenges during pregnancy. Recognizing and addressing these factors are crucial to improving the overall well-being and quality of life of pregnant women.