The Relationship of Sexual Function and Sexual Self-Esteem among the Women of Reproductive Age Based on Body Mass Index

Sexual health is a critical component of couples’ health and general health. Body mass index (BMI) is known to influence sexual function, self-efficacy, and sexual performance. This study aimed to assess the relationship of sexual function and sexual self-esteem among the women of reproductive age based on body mass index.
In a cross-sectional study in Isfahan City, Iran, 192 married women aged between 18 and 50 years were enrolled as a convenient sample. Data were gathered using meter, digital scale, Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI), and Anne Hooper's Sexual Self-Esteem questionnaire. The data were analyzed using SPSS software.
Findings: Differences in average desire, arousal, and orgasm scores among the underweight, normal body mass index, and obese individuals were significant (P The results showed that body mass index is not the only effective factor on sexual function, sexual self efficacy, and sexual self-esteem in women; intra-psychological, interpersonal, and socio-cultural factors should to be considered as important mediatings, too.