Sexual knowledge and attitude as predictors of female sexual satisfaction

Abstract

Background: Complaints about sexuality is more common among women in comparison to men. Designing effective interventions in this field requires the identification of predictive factors. This study aims to predict the sexual satisfaction of women based on the components of knowledge and attitude. Methods: In a cross-sectional descriptive study, 480 women who had been referred to Hamedan health centers were selected by two-stage cluster sampling; they completed Hadson sexual satisfaction questionnaires as well as SKAS knowledge and attitude questionnaire. In addition to descriptive analysis, the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to analyze the relationships between variables and finally, linear regression was used to determine the relationship between variables by eliminating confounding factors. Results: The findings of the analysis revealed a positive and direct correlation between the variables of sexual satisfaction and sexual attitude. There was a positive and significant relationship between sexual satisfaction and sexual knowledge (r=0.442, P=0.000) and sexual satisfaction and sexual attitude (r=0.506, P=0.000); i.e. increase in knowledge and attitude about sexual issues are associated with enhancement of sexual satisfaction. The predicted sexual satisfaction of married women was predominantly attributed to sexual attitude. Conclusion: The results of our analysis showed that women's knowledge and attitudes can predict their sexual satisfaction. Therefore, increasing sexual knowledge and improving the attitude of women should bring about greater sexual satisfaction for women. By designing and implementing effective educational interventions and counseling aimed at promoting women's sexual knowledge and improving false beliefs, effective steps can be taken to preserve and enhance the sexual health of women and, consequently, couples.