Sexuality and body image: What link?
IntroductionResarches on body image suggest a link with sexuality.The objective of our study was to investigate Tunisian women's perceptions of their bodies and its involvement on sexuality.Methods and patientsA total of 100 Tunisian women were interviewed using a self-administered questionnaire which explores: -Clinical data: weight, height, hormonal status-The perception of women to their bodies and their husband's perception.-The impact of body image on sexual activityResultsWomen's body image was positive in most cases: The body is seen as female in 94% of cases, young in 76% of cases, physically attractive in 66% and erotic in 51% of cases.Eighty five percent of women were satisfied with their sexual activity. These women report having an erotic body (p = 0.009) and source of self-confidence (p = 0.002).Half of women said that their body image allowed them to take the initiative in sexual activity and to have a satisfying desire (p = 0.003).A positive perception of the spouse of a woman's body influenced significantly the sexual behavior of women: more interest to intimate moments (p = 0.001), ability to initiate sexual activity (p = 0.014) and sexual satisfaction (p = 0.018).ConclusionOur study shows the positive role of an adequate perception of body image of women by herself and her spouse about sexuality, through its influence on self-esteem and confidence. It would be interesting to consider these dimensions in any treatment of sexual disorders.