Opinions of Postpartum Women about the Impact of Pregnancy and Childbirth on Sexual Life

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Sexual life is often a very sensitive topic, but it may be especially delicate subject for pregnant women. Women are worried about possible impact of pregnancy and childbirth on their sexual life. Aim: The aim was to collect and analyze information given by patients in postpartum units about their opinions of impact of pregnancy, childbirth and partner’s presence during delivery on their sexual life. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study was carried out involving 351 women in postpartum period. Data were collected from August 2016 until December 2016 in the Maternity Hospital using patient questionnaires. Results: Mean age was 30.3 years (SD 5.1; range, 18 - 43 years). 52.1% (n=183) participants were primiparous and 47.9% (n=168) were multiparous. 92.0% (n=323) had coitus during pregnancy and 8.0% (n=28) did not have. In 41.6% sexual desire decreased during pregnancy. 29.6% (n=104) were worried about impact of childbirth on sexual life, 35.3% (n=124) were worried if letting partner to participate in childbirth would change partners opinion about their sexual life. 49.6% (n=174) got advice from gynecologist about their sexual life during pregnancy, 26.2% (n=92) would like to talk about sexual life with gynecologist. Conclusions: Most of the women are sexually active during pregnancy. Primiparous compared to multiparous are more often worried that childbirth and partner’s presence during delivery may influence their sexual life. Those who admit sexual life as important for them more often are worried about possible impact and want to talk about sexuality with their gynecologist.