Psycho-sexual influence of sterilization on women's quality of life: a path model.

BACKGROUND

Tubal ligation, as a permanent contraception method, have a negative and positive impact on women's life. This study aimed to test a conceptual model considering the interrelated role of menorrhagia, body image concern, self-esteem, sexual function, anxiety and depression on quality of life (QOL) of sterilized women.

METHODS

The current study was conducted as a cross-sectional study on 200 sterilized women. Data were collected using a socio-demographic checklist, Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), pictorial blood loss assessment chart, female sexual function index, hospital anxiety and depression scale, body image concern inventory, and Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation coefficient and path analysis.

RESULTS

Results show that anxiety, sexual function, self-esteem, and body image dissatisfaction have a direct effect on women's QOL. Higher level of anxiety, and body dissatisfaction directly reduce QOL. Sexual function, and menorrhagia, with an indirect effect through anxiety, reduces QOL. Higher level of anxiety with indirect effect thorough self-esteem can worsen QOL. Also, sexual function indirectly affects QOL through anxiety.

CONCLUSION

It looks that the proposed predictors of this model are greatly important. These findings give support for a hypothetical model in which betterment in SF, body image satisfaction, self-esteem, anxiety, and menorrhagia led to a good QOL of sterilized women. Hence, in designing care for sterilized women, these factors should be considered.