Sexual Function and Help-Seeking Behaviors following Childbirth: A Cross-Sectional Study. Issue 3 (3rd April 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kelley, E. L.; Sheyn, D.; Hijaz, A.; Kingsberg, S. A.; Pope, R. J.
• Is Part Of: Journal of sex & marital therapy. Volume 49:Issue 3(2023)
• Page Start: 331
• Page End: 341
• Publication Date: 2023-04-03
• Subjects: Sexual disorders -- Periodicals; Sexual deviation -- Periodicals; Psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Marital psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Marriage; Sex Disorders; 616.8583005
• DOI: 10.1080/0092623X.2022.2117747
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0092-623X

Abstract

Abstract: This study examined 573 postpartum women's perceptions of changes in their sexual function and their help-seeking behaviors. Women residing in Ohio, Michigan, or Pennsylvania, USA, completed an online survey. Most women reported decreased postpartum sexual desire and/or arousal. Among women reporting decreased sexual function, most did not seek help from informal sources of support or health care professions (HCPs). Of those who did seek help from an HCP, in each domain of sexual function, only around half received helpful treatment. Women who did not seek help for their decreased sexual desire or arousal reported greater negative perceived impact of pregnancy/childbirth on their sexual function than women who did seek help.