Sexual satisfaction, body image and life satisfaction in pregnant women

Introduction: Pregnancy comes with many physical and mental changes, which can affect one’s sexual satisfaction, body image and general well-being. The aim of the study was to analyse these variables. Material and methods: The study was cross-sectional and conducted online among pregnant women (n = 111). It utilized a self-designed questionnaire and the following standardized questionnaire tools: Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Body Esteem Scale (BES) and a shortened version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Test (WHOQOL-BREF). The statistical analysis was conducted using non-parametric Kruskal–Wallis tests and post-hoc Dunn tests with Bonferroni correction, as well as the Wilcoxon test. Results: The study showed that feelings concerning sexuality and body image change during pregnancy (p < 0.0001). In relation to the trimester, a statistically significant change in the importance of sexual activity occurs between the second and third trimester (p = 0.006). The study group presented a high level of life satisfaction — the average being 24.14 ± 6.15, and quality of life — the average being 97.60 ± 15.79. Conclusions: Dynamic changes occurring during pregnancy influence women’s sexuality, which can be best observed between the second and third trimester. At the same time, the trimester of pregnancy does not influence the level of life satisfaction or body image, which appears to be less important for women during pregnancy than before.