The relationship of genital self-image with sexual satisfaction and marital adjustment: A study on menopausal women

Aim: The study was conducted to determine the relationship between genital self image, sexual satisfaction and marital adjustment in postmenopausal women. Material and Method: The sample of this descriptive and correlational study consisted of 384 women in menopause who applied to the Gynecology and Obstetrics Polyclinics of Izmir Buca Seyfi Demirsoy Training and Research Hospital between October 1 and November 30, 2024. Data were obtained using the Personal Introduction Form, Female Genital Self Image Scale, Female Sexual Satisfaction Scale and Marital Adjustment Scale. Results: The mean scores of women from FGSIS, MAS and FSSS were found to be 22.38±4.56, 43.27±8.53 and 110.16±17.9, respectively. A low level positive and statistically significant correlation was found between women's satisfaction with sexual life and communication, relationship-related anxiety, FSSS, FGSIS and MAS (p<0.05). A moderately positive and statistically significant relationship was found between the FSSS, FGSIS and MAS, and a moderately positive and statistically significant relationship was found between the FGSIS and MAS (p<0.05). It was determined that 13.8% of the change in the FGSIS score was explained by the FSSS and MAS scores (R2=0.138). Conclusion: The women's genital self-images were found to be positive, their marital adjustment was high, and their sexual satisfaction was moderate. It was also found that women's genital self-image was positively affected by their marital adjustment and sexual satisfaction. Keywords: Genital Self-Image, Marital Adjustment, Menopause, Midwife, Sexual Satisfaction