The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Female Sexual Behavior

Objective:The Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) related isolation has resulted in economic damage, loneliness, fear of death, and depression all around the world. Self-isolation and social distance lead to unintended psychological effects and negatively affect sexual life. This study aimed to investigate women’s sexual behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic in our country.Method:This prospective, observational study was conducted in a tertiary referral hospital between June 27 and July 27, 2020. A questionnaire consisting of 13 questions regarding the sexual life during the COVID-19 pandemic was applied to 169 women aged 18-45 years. Demographic characteristics were recorded. The questions evaluating sexual behavior about the relationship with partner, sexual desire, frequency of intercourse, sexual satisfaction, and fertility desire were asked.Results:The mean age of the participants was 32.9±7.74 years (18-45). Regarding the per capita monthly income, 84 (60%) patients had a decrease, 53 (37.9%) of them remained stable, and only 3 (2.1%) of them had an increase during the pandemic. Sexual desire was decreased by 32.9% of the participants and remained the same in 58.6% of the participants. A higher rate of 40.5% was observed in the decreased group than in the stable income group with 22.7% (p=0.03). A statistically significant difference was found between the decrease in sexual desire rates. However, when the change in income level of the groups and their sexual satisfaction rates were compared, it was found that sexual satisfaction increased in those with a lower income level, and the difference was statistically significant (p=0.04).Conclusion:Acute stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected sexuality. The decreased income level reduces sexual desire, but we observed an increase in sexual satisfaction rates in this group.