Sex After Baby.

Although physicians, midwives, and other childbirth professionals are aware that sexual function can be affected after childbirth, few studies have been published.

In 1990 and 1991, Scottish investigators sent surveys to 1,391 women. The questionnaires were completed at home shortly after leaving the hospital and at eight weeks postpartum. Fifty percent of those questioned were sent a third survey twelve to eighteen months later. Response rates were approximately 90 percent.

About 50 percent reported intercourse problems at eight weeks postpartum and during the year following the birth. At eight weeks postpartum, 22 percent reported perineal pain during sexual activity. After eight weeks postpartum, that number decreased to 10 percent. Of those, 30 percent reporting pain were women who birthed with forceps or vacuum interventions; 7 percent of the women reporting pain were spontaneous vaginal deliveries; and 2 percent were delivered by Cesarean.

Most of the women reporting lack of interest were breastfeeding (19 percent versus 7 percent not breastfeeding). Other reasons for low-levels of sexual function were fatigue (either mother's or partner's), fear of unplanned pregnancy, and bleeding.

Researchers conclude that this survey reveals common postpartum sexual problems. All childbirth personnel need to be aware of possible alterations in sexual activity resulting from the birth, the manner of birth, and postpartum activities. Most importantly, professionals need to reassure couples that the changes they experience are normal.

--British Journal of Obstetric Gynaecology, March 1997