Causes of Desire Suppression and Sexual Avoidance in Postpartum Couples: A Qualitative Exploration
Keywords:
Postpartum sexuality, sexual desire suppression, sexual avoidanceAbstract
Objective: This study aimed to explore and explain the underlying physical, psychological, relational, and sociocultural factors contributing to sexual desire suppression and avoidance among postpartum couples.
Methods and Materials: A qualitative exploratory design was adopted to capture the lived experiences of postpartum couples. Using purposive sampling, 18 married individuals (nine couples) from Taiwan who were between 12 and 24 months postpartum were recruited. Data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured interviews guided by open-ended questions about postpartum sexual changes, emotional experiences, and relational adjustments. Interviews were conducted face-to-face or via secure video conferencing, audio-recorded with consent, and transcribed verbatim. Data collection continued until theoretical saturation was achieved. NVivo 14 software was used for systematic coding and thematic analysis, employing iterative open, axial, and selective coding to develop categories and themes. Credibility was enhanced through member checking and peer debriefing, while dependability and confirmability were supported by an audit trail and reflexive memoing.
Findings: Analysis revealed four overarching themes shaping sexual desire suppression and avoidance: (1) physical and hormonal changes after childbirth — including pain, fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, and body image dissatisfaction; (2) psychological and emotional adjustments — such as maternal identity shift, anxiety, depressive symptoms, and cognitive overload; (3) relational and communication challenges — including inequitable parenting roles, reduced intimacy, misaligned sexual expectations, and limited sexual communication; and (4) sociocultural and external pressures — notably cultural taboos, family interference, social comparison, insufficient sexual health education, and moral beliefs affecting sexual readiness. These themes interacted dynamically, reinforcing avoidance patterns and delaying sexual recovery.
Conclusion: Sexual desire suppression and avoidance in the postpartum period result from the interplay of biological, psychological, relational, and cultural factors. Integrating sexual health counseling, mental health support, and culturally sensitive couple-based interventions into postpartum care could facilitate healthier sexual adaptation.
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