The Sexual Experiences of Turkish Women after Bariatric Surgery: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Bariatric surgery affects not only quality of life in general, but also sexual life of patients. Because sexual life is also affected by cultural factors, it is believed that the effects of bariatric surgery on sexual life in different cultures need to be evaluated. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of Turkish obese women in their sexual life before and after bariatric surgery. The sample of the study was included 16 women who underwent bariatric surgery. Data were collected via semi‐structured face‐to‐face interviews. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. During the analysis process three categories were identified. The main categories were as follows: “weight-related experiences until surgery,” “surgical motivations and expectations,” and “changes after surgery.” This study highlighted the impact of bariatric surgery on women’s sexual lives. Bariatric team member should be aware of effects of obesity and bariatric surgery on sexuality and address sexuality in counseling for patients.