Women's genital self-images, their acceptance of cosmetic surgery, and evaluation the relationship

Objective: Genital self-image and genital cosmetic surgery are gaining importance and require evaluation. This study examines women's genital self-image, attitudes toward cosmetic surgery, and the relationship between these factors. Study design: This correlational study was conducted between September 2023 and March 2024 at the gynecology outpatient clinic of a training and research hospital in western Turkiye. Data were collected using the Descriptive Characteristics Form, the Female Genital Self-Image Scale (FGSIS), and the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS). Analyses included descriptive statistics, the Mann-Whitney U test, the Kruskal-Wallis test, and Spearman correlation. Results: Of 207 patients analysed. The mean FGSIS score was 19.48 +/- 4.39, and the mean ACSS score was 61.83 +/- 21.37. No significant correlation was found between FGSIS and ACSS scores. However, FGSIS scores showed a weak negative correlation with age and number of births. Significant differences were found between FGSIS scores and childbirth status, willingness for sexual intercourse, and between ACSS scores and employment status. Both scale scores were also associated with perceived sexual attractiveness, discomfort with genital appearance, awareness of genital cosmetic surgery, and intention to seek medical consultation (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrates most women perceive themselves as sexually attractive, but their genital self-image and positive attitudes toward cosmetic surgery are moderate. The study findings also show that both scale scores are associated with participants' genital appearance and cosmetic surgery awareness. Accessible counseling services, further studies in diverse populations, and scientifically based educational programs on genital cosmetic surgery are recommended.