Abstract
The study investigated negative genital self-image in women and determined the effect of education on natural/normal female genital appearance diversity on the change in women’s genital self-image. The type of research is a mixed method descriptive study. The participants were 259 women living in Turkey. In the first stage of the study, female genital self-image levels and body appreciation levels were evaluated. In the second stage of the study, women were interviewed thoroughly about negative female genital self-image, and then, visual education presentation was made on natural/normal female genital diversity. One week after the presentation, the women’s genital self-image levels were re-evaluated. In the first phase of the study, the mean Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS) total score was 22.07 ± 4.07 and the mean Body Appreciation Scale (BAS) total score was 42.40 ± 8.13 of the women. Higher FGSIS and BAS scores showed an increase in women’s positive genital self-image and body appreciation. The relationship between the FGSIS and the BAS scale scores of the women was found to be significantly correlated (r = 0.401, p < 0.001). In the second stage of the study, four main themes were examined as “positive thoughts,” “size and image,” “metaphors related to genital organs,” and “negative thoughts.” In conclusion, in the first phase, it was determined that women’s feeling of discomfort with their sexual organs during sexual intercourse, comparing their genital organs with other women’s genital organs, thinking of genital organ aesthetic surgery, and BAS scores were associated with FGSIS scores. In the second phase, women’s positive or negative feelings and thoughts about their genital self-image were revealed.
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We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to beautiful women who are valuable with their thoughts and feelings and we respect.
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“Female genital self-image and body appreciation in Turkish women: a mixed methods study” was presented as an oral presentation at the 1st International National Sivas Midwifery Congress 09–10 May 2022. The oral presentation was awarded the second prize.
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Koçak, V., Aksoy, Y.E. Female genital self-image and body appreciation in Turkish women: a mixed methods study. Arch Womens Ment Health 27, 219–232 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00737-023-01397-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00737-023-01397-y