ABSTRACT

Objective

This study aims to examine the relationship between state and trait anxiety levels and sexual functioning in women who have experienced earthquake-related trauma. The research focuses on psychological and sexual health indicators affecting women’s well-being after disasters and seeks to highlight the determining role of anxiety.

Methods

The study was conducted with female participants who had experienced an earthquake. Data were collected on participants’ demographic characteristics, health status, anxiety levels, and sexual health indicators. Anxiety was measured using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, while sexual health was assessed through variables such as satisfaction, frequency of sexual intercourse, and orgasm frequency.

Results

The study found a significant negative relationship between sexual satisfaction and anxiety levels. Higher education levels were associated with lower anxiety, whereas the presence of chronic illness and menstrual irregularities were linked to higher anxiety levels. These findings suggest a strong association between psychological and sexual health indicators.

Conclusion

Earthquake trauma has notable effects on women’s psychological well-being and sexual health. The protective effect of education on anxiety, along with the link between sexual satisfaction and anxiety, should be taken into account in post-disaster interventions for women. These results underscore the importance of an integrated approach that addresses both psychological and sexual health in post-disaster healthcare services.