Sexual function in pregnancy and postpartum: breaking the silence.

BACKGROUND

Sexual function during pregnancy and the postpartum period is a complex component of maternal and couple health, and it's deeply influenced by an intricate interplay of physiological, psychological, childbirth, and relational factors.

AIM

This review seeks to explore the nuanced dynamics of sexual function during pregnancy and the postpartum period, shedding light on both the challenges and opportunities for enhancing maternal and couple sexual well-being.

METHODS

Drawing on a combination of existing scientific literature and extensive clinical experience, this expert opinion delves into the physiological transformations, psychological adjustments, and shifts in relational dynamics that accompany pregnancy and postpartum. It sheds light on the sexual experiences of partners and underscores the necessity of a holistic understanding of sexual health in this context.

OUTCOMES

The review offers an enhanced perspective on sexual function during pregnancy and postpartum and aims to contribute to a deeper and more nuanced understanding that can inform both clinical practice and future research.

RESULTS

The results highlight that pregnancy and postpartum phases influence sexual function, with fluctuations in sexual desire and activity resulting from changes in physiological, psychological, and relational factors. Women experience a decline in sexual function, particularly during the third trimester, with factors, such as hormonal changes, body image concerns, and partner dynamics shaping sexual experiences across pregnancy and postpartum stages.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

A thorough understanding of sexual function throughout pregnancy and postpartum is critical for enhancing maternal and couple health and it creates pathways to more effective and compassionate care.

STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS

The strengths of this review include the integration of scientific literature with clinical experience to provide a holistic view of sexual function. However, the limitations are the reliance on cross-sectional studies and the scarcity of data on couple sexual functioning.

CONCLUSION

Understanding the interplay of physiological and anatomical changes, psychological factors, and partner dynamics is crucial in addressing sexual function during pregnancy and the postpartum period.