Sexual-affective experiences of women and partners postpartum and related biopsychosocial factors and adaptation strategies. Qualitative study

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AIM: To understand women's and partners' sexual-affective experiences postpartum and related biopsychosocial factors and adaptation strategies. METHODS: This qualitative study, using a phenomenological approach, was based on 23 semi-structured interviews with mothers and two focus groups with 14 partners, between 12 weeks and one year postpartum. Intentional and theoretical sampling was used, including participants with diverse sexual orientation. Interpretative thematic analysis was performed, using Taylor and Bogdan's inductive logic within a phenomenological framework. RESULTS: Three themes were identified. 1) Painful experiences and the recovery of the felt body covered issues such as worry about pain and sexual satisfaction, physical and emotional recovery, and body image affected by childbirth and the postpartum period. 2) Relationship crises and strengthened connections highlighted tension between baby care and sexual desire and intimacy, along with the realization of the importance of sharing responsibilities. 3) Adaptation strategies in sexual-affective relationships showed that respecting differences in sexual needs, fostering acceptance of postpartum physical changes, communicating, and making time for each other and space for intimacy were key practices to nurture the relationship. Couples sometimes sought professional counselling, as well. CONCLUSIONS: Biopsychosocial factors posed challenges for women and partners in their postpartum sexual-affective experiences, prompting them to devise their own adaptation strategies or seek professional help. Considering the perspective of partners and diverse sexual orientations improves understanding of sexuality and sexual health counselling in the postpartum period. Moreover, integrating a psychosocial approach to these services is adviseable to promote communication skills, a gender perspective and involvement of the partner.

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