Relationship between Sexual Health Literacy and Sexual Function in Married Women of Reproductive Age

Aim: This research aimed to investigate the relationship between the level of sexual health literacy and sexual function in women in rural areas. Instrument Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted with the participation of 200 women of reproductive age in the rural areas of Banaroye District in the south of Fars Province. The data collection tools included the fertility demographic characteristics questionnaire, the Adult Sexual Health Literacy Questionnaire (SHELA), and the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of covariance. Findings: The average age of the women was 31.65±5.95 years. Most women (70.5%) experienced some degree of sexual dysfunction. The results of the analysis of covariance showed that the average score of sexual function of women with an insufficient level of sexual health literacy was 4.50 points lower than those who had an excellent level of sexual health literacy (p=0.020). Both scores were lower than those of women with a high level of sexual health literacy. Additionally, women with a university education obtained a higher mean score in sexual function (p=0.047). Conclusion: Increasing awareness and education in the field of sexual health enhances individual sexual function, thereby improving couples’ relationships and increasing quality of life.