The Effect of Training Package on Genital Self-Image and Sexual Function: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Background More than half of sexual problems, which cause destruction of life and marital relations is due to insufficient knowledge and wrong health beliefs regarding sexuality. Genital self-image plays an important role in sexual health, genital appearance, and sexual function. Objectives This study aimed to determine the effect of training package on genital self-image and sexual function in health centers of Qazvin, Iran. Methods In this randomized clinical control trial, 124 Iranian women, between the ages of 18 - 40 years, from Qazvin, were randomized into 2 groups, training and control. The intervention group received 3 training sessions weekly for 1 hour daily. Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and the genital self-image scale were completed before and 4 weeks after the end of intervention in both groups. P < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results Between 2 groups, in terms of socio-demographic characteristics, there was no significant difference (P > 0.05). The mean (SD) score of genital self-image in the intervention group before and after intervention was 72.0 (11.4) and 75.7 (11.7), respectively. The mean (SD) score of genital self-image in the control group before and after intervention was 72.9 (12.3) and 75.7 (10.9), respectively. According to the ANCOVA test, there was no significant difference between groups at 4 weeks after intervention in terms of sexual function (mean differences: 0.8; confidence interval 95%: -0.6 to 2.3; P = 0.257) and genital self-image (mean differences: 0.5; confidence interval 95%: -3.3 to 4.4; P = 0.808). Conclusions The results showed that training has no effect on the genital self-image and sexual function in women. The systematic planned training could be designed for those suffering from body image disorders and sexual dysfunction in order to promote their sexual function and body image.