This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Why do some parents have more sexual difficulties than others after having a baby? Childhood trauma plays a significant role, amplifying the other factors at play.
Having a child brings its own set of challenges for couples. On top of the physical, emotional and relationship adjustments that come with parenthood, parents also face changes in their sex lives. In particular, many report less frequent sex and lower sexual satisfaction.
Although these difficulties are common among parents, they can still cause distress. So why do some parents struggle more than others? To find out, we studied 437 couples who had resumed sexual activity (kissing, caressing or penetrative intercourse) after the birth of their child.
We wanted to determine whether childhood trauma, such as neglect, abuse or bullying, was linked to lower sexual satisfaction, and whether feeling understood, accepted and supported by one's partner could act as a buffer. According to biopsychosocial models, sexual well-being after childbirth depends on a combination of biological factors (such as hormonal changes and breastfeeding), psychological factors (such as postpartum depression) and relational factors. But experiences that predate parenthood by many years can also affect how people adjust during this period.
Childhood interpersonal trauma can make the transition to parenthood harder, partly because of its psychological, relational and sexual effects. Studies also show that people with a history of such trauma have more sexual difficulties as adults, including lower sexual satisfaction. Our study shows that this link also holds for couples after childbirth.
Feeling understood by one's partner is one of the key ingredients of intimacy in a relationship. This goes beyond simply being listened to. It means feeling that your partner knows and understands who you are, values and respects your abilities, personality and opinions, and is attentive and willing to meet your needs; for example, by supporting you through hard times.
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