Self-perception of Genital Appearance following a Vaginal Delivery, C-section and Nulliparous Women in a Hispanic Population in Puerto Rico

Abstract

Objective: Childbirth is considered to be both beautiful and traumatic. Following a vaginal delivery, some women express discontent with the appearance of their genitalia on social media and/or websites. This study explored how some women perceived their genitalia, post childbirth. Three groups were compared: women with a vaginal delivery, those with a cesarean-section, and those who had never given birth. Methods: After the study received approval from the institutional review board, 224 female participants living in Puerto Rico and aged 21 to 42 years completed a questionnaire about their genital self-image. Results: Approximately 51% (n = 115) of the participants had never given birth; the others had given birth via C-section 23% (n = 51) or vaginally 26% (n = 58). In all 3 groups, 84% felt positive about their genitals, 79% expressed their satisfaction with the appearance of their genitals and 84%, with their size; 81% were not ashamed of their genitals. Conclusion: Logistic regression found no significant difference in genital self-perception between delivery groups or nulliparous women. The adjusted odds ratios for positive genital image varied slightly between delivery methods but were not statistically significant (ranging from 0.65 to 1.11 for vaginal deliveries, and 0.42 to 1.00 for C-sections; P > .05). This suggests that the method of delivery does not have a significant impact on women’s genital self-perception. However, for the 21% with negative perceptions, targeted support is essential; for those struggling with their self-image after childbirth, our results can inform support services to address concerns.