Effects of having a sexually transmitted infection on women's sexuality and self-concept

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the experiential aspect of having a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from young women's perspectives. Methodology: This study utilised a qualitative design and was informed by a feminist methodology. All data was collected via computer mediated communication and was subjected to thematic analysis. Results: Preliminary findings from this study have revealed that contracting a STI had an immense impact on the women's psychological and sexual wellbeing. The women suffered from significant disturbances in their sexuality and self-concept. The women feared revealing their infections to potential partners, which caused the women to refrain from relationships. They felt that they lacked sexual spontaneity resultant of their infections and perceived themselves as less than adequate sexual beings. Conclusions: Contracting a STI caused these women significant emotional distress through disrupting their intimate lives. The women felt that they were inadequate and feared engaging in romantic and intimate relationships with men. From this research greater insight and understanding into the experiential aspects of women with STIs is provided. Through this knowledge healthcare professionals working with women that have experienced a STI can be equipped with better understanding of the psychological and sexual health needs of these women.