Women`s sexual function during the postpartum period: A systematic review on measurement tools

Abstract

Background: Sexual health is a critical component of overall well-being, yet discussions around sexual function, especially in the context of postpartum recovery, are often taboo or sidelined. The aim was to review measurement tools assessing women’s sexual function/health during the postpartum period. Methods: We did a systematic search according to preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses 2020 guidelines in different databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, ProQuest and Open Access Thesis and Dissertations, and Google scholar search engine until June 2023. Also, the reference list of the related reviews has been screened. Eligible studies included observational studies or clinical trials that evaluated women`s sexual function during the postpartum period using existing tools. Data extraction covered study characteristics, measurement tools, and their validity and reliability. Results: From 3064 retrieved records, after removing duplicates and excluding ineligible studies, and reviewing the reference list of the related reviews, 41 studies were included in this review. Tools measuring sexual function were developed from 1996 to 2017. Sexual activity questionnaire, female sexual function index (FSFI), sexual function questionnaire, short form of the pelvic organ prolapse/urinary incontinence sexual questionnaire, sexual health outcomes in women questionnaire, shorter version of FSFI, and sexual function questionnaire’s medical impact scale and Carol scale. Conclusion: Sexual activity questionnaire, FSFI, sexual function questionnaire, short form of the pelvic organ prolapse/urinary incontinence sexual questionnaire, sexual health outcomes in women questionnaire, shorter version of FSFI, sexual function questionnaire’s medical impact scale, and Carol scale are valid and reliable measuring tools to assess sexual function or sexual health during postpartum period, which can be used in primary studies according to the study aim and objectives.