Sexual health self-efficacy and related factors among parturients

Background: Parturients often experience changes in intimate relationships. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlates and predictors of Sexual Health Self-Efficacy among Postpartum Women (SHSE-P). Methods: A total of 301 participants from the postpartum ward of a medical center and regional hospital in northern Taiwan were recruited through purposive sampling. Results: Results showed that most participants fell into the "moderate" range of sexual health self-efficacy. Age, mode of delivery, breastfeeding, and spontaneous abortion were contributing factors to participant sexual health selfefficacy. Multiple regression showed age and breastfeeding to be significant predictors of SHSE-P, explaining 7% of variance among participants. Breastfeeding women between 26 and 44 years of age had better postnatal sexual health self-efficacy. Conclusion / Implications for Practice: Intervention to prevent the continuance and/or exacerbation of sexual difficulties in parturients in the 18-25 years of age range is necessary. Promoting proper breastfeeding may not only enhance the positive relationship between parents and children, but also improve the level of satisfaction enjoyed in couples' intimate relationships.