Anna Malmquist, Ellen Norén, Katri Nieminen, Hanna Grundström
Specific knowledge of LGBTQ+ sexual practices among healthcare staff is important, as are affirming attitudes toward less normative sexual practices.
BACKGROUND: Sexual health is often negatively affected during pregnancy and the postpartum period in the general pregnant and birthing population. Although an increasing number of LGBTQ+ individuals are becoming parents, their experiences of sex during pregnancy and postpartum have not been studied.
AIM: To explore whether, and in what ways, sex life was affected during pregnancy and postpartum among LGBTQ+ couples and individuals.
METHODS: LGBTQ+ pregnant individuals (n = 301) and partners of pregnant individuals (n = 104) responded to a digital survey during pregnancy, with a postpartum follow-up response rate of 74.3%. Free-text responses (n = 526) describing experiences of sex life were analyzed using codebook thematic analysis.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION: A decrease in sexual desire was common and was generally associated with physical complications and mental stress. Intimacy was often maintained without sexual activity. A lack of LGBTQ+ inclusive information on safe sex during pregnancy and postpartum was noted. Active engagement by healthcare staff in addressing sexuality during these periods is essential for providing relevant and LGBTQ+ specific information.
CONCLUSION: Specific knowledge of LGBTQ+ sexual practices among healthcare staff is important, as are affirming attitudes toward less normative sexual practices.