Relação entre a episiotomia e a laceração perineal grave com a função sexual no período de 18 a 27 meses após o parto

Abstract

Female Sexual Dysfunction (FSD) is a common postnatal problem. In the literature, its relation to the presence of episiotomy and / or perineal tears is suggested, although it is still inconclusive. Objective: To evaluate the relationship between episiotomy and severe perineal tears with sexual function (SF) in primiparous women. Methodology: This observational, cross-sectional study evaluated women who were in the 18 to 27 month postpartum period divided into three groups: 1-severe perineal tears, 2-episiotomy, and 3-perineum intact. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire was applied to evaluate SF, associated with a physical examination of the perineal region. Results: 25 women completed the study, 8 with severe perineal laceration, 8 with episiotomy and 9 with intact perineum. The FSFI scores did not present a difference between the groups: perineal tears (16.66 ± 6.4), episiotomy (20.05 ± 3.8) and intact perineum (19.96 ± 1.97), but presented values below the cut-off point accepted in the literature, indicating a high prevalence of FSD in the evaluated sample. There was no statistically significant difference for the presence of perineal pain, sexual activity and function of the pelvic floor muscles (FEM) between the groups. Conclusion: Despite the high prevalence of FSD in the studied sample, there was no association of this dysfunction with the presence of episiotomy and severe perineal tears 18 to 27 months postpartum.