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Perinatal Sexual Dysfunction: the Importance of the Interpersonal Context

  • Female Sexual Dysfunction and Disorders (A Stanton, Section Editor)
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A Correction to this article was published on 04 September 2021

This article has been updated

Abstract

Purpose of Review

The interpersonal context is critical for understanding sexual dysfunction yet has largely been neglected in research and reviews of perinatal sexual dysfunction. In this review, we examine how sexual function changes throughout the perinatal period for both birth-giving individuals and their partners. Using a biopsychosocial framework, we review factors associated with the onset and persistence of sexual function problems.

Recent Findings

Dyadic longitudinal studies reveal that sexual function declines from mid-pregnancy until 3 months postpartum and then improves thereafter for both partners. Importantly, there is significant heterogeneity in these patterns, suggesting that some individuals and some couples are at greater risk of problems. Findings support that birth-giving individuals experience more marked changes and report greater distress than do their partners, placing them at greater risk of sexual dysfunction. There is minimal evidence to support the role of biological factors in perinatal sexual dysfunction. Psychological (e.g., depression, fatigue, stress) factors are associated with risk of sexual function problems for both partners. Having a strong connection with one’s partner appears to protect against sexual function problems, with other social and interpersonal factors (e.g., dyadic coping and empathy, sexual communal strength, communication) buffering against negative changes to sexual function.

Summary

The perinatal period is a vulnerable time for both partners’ sexual function; however, some individuals and couples are at greater risk than others. Lack of validated measures and accessible evidence-based interventions specific to perinatal sexual function are barriers to assessment and early intervention. Preliminary evidence suggests that receiving psychoeducation about changes to sexual function benefits expectant and new parent couples because this normalizes these experiences and minimizes distress about these changes. Health care professionals should incorporate perinatal sexual function psychoeducation and assessment of both partners into routine care practices.

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Author notes

  1. Erin T. Fitzpatrick and Marta T. Kolbuszewska contributed equally to this work.

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada

    Erin T. Fitzpatrick, Marta T. Kolbuszewska & Samantha J. Dawson

  2. Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, 2136 West Mall, Vancouver, Canada

    Samantha J. Dawson

Authors
  1. Erin T. Fitzpatrick
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  2. Marta T. Kolbuszewska
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  3. Samantha J. Dawson
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Correspondence to Samantha J. Dawson.

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Fitzpatrick, E.T., Kolbuszewska, M.T. & Dawson, S.J. Perinatal Sexual Dysfunction: the Importance of the Interpersonal Context. Curr Sex Health Rep 13, 55–65 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11930-021-00313-8

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