Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Sexuality Research and Social Policy, cilt.21, sa.2, ss.727-736, 2024 (SSCI, Scopus)
Introduction: This study aimed to determine the views and experiences of women of reproductive age regarding their sexuality and sexual life during their menstrual period. Methods: A qualitative, interpretive, phenomenological design was used. The study sample consisted of 16 women of reproductive age (18–49), who volunteered to participate and came to gynecology outpatient clinic appointments at a research hospital in Istanbul, Turkey. Data were collected online through in-depth individual interviews. Results: The research was composed of six themes: “symptoms of the menstruation period,” “duration and severity of symptoms during menstruation,” “effect of the menstrual period on sexual life,” “sexual desire during the menstrual period,” “opinions about sexual life during menstruation,” and “spouses’ opinions about sexual life during menstruation.” Conclusions: The women in the study noted that they experienced physiological and psychological symptoms during their menstrual period. Although some of the women stated that they do not have changes in sexual desire during this period, most of them think that they should not engage in sexual intercourse due to the symptoms they experience during their menstrual period, religious beliefs, and sociocultural values. Policy Implications: Nurses should counsel couples about the possible advantages and disadvantages of sexual intercourse during menstruation without displaying a judgmental attitude.