Sexual health after childbirth in Dutch women: prevalence, associated factors and perceived need for information: a cross-sectional study
2024

Sexual Health After Childbirth in Dutch Women

Sample size: 641 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Emma Wassenaar, Frederique Lont, Corine Verhoeven, Jens Hendrichs, Caroline Geerts, Linde Titulaer, Catja Warmelink

Primary Institution: Midwifery Academy Amsterdam, Inholland, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence of sexual health problems among postpartum Dutch women and what factors are associated with these issues?

Conclusion

Half of postpartum women experience sexual health problems, highlighting the need for better information and support from care providers.

Supporting Evidence

  • 88% of women reported changes in sexual health postpartum.
  • 43.7% reported sexual dysfunction and 52.3% reported sexual distress.
  • 46% of women felt a greater need for information about sexual health.
  • Negative sexual experiences were linked to higher odds of sexual dysfunction.
  • Positive relationship satisfaction was associated with lower odds of sexual dysfunction.

Takeaway

Many new moms in the Netherlands have problems with their sexual health after giving birth, and they want more information about it.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study using an online survey distributed via social media.

Potential Biases

Recall bias may affect the accuracy of reported sexual health issues and experiences.

Limitations

The study's cross-sectional design limits the ability to assess changes in sexual health over time.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 55.2% primiparous women, with ages ranging from 19 to 42 years, and 85.3% identified as Dutch.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.03

Confidence Interval

95% CI 1.04–2.40

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/s12884-024-06918-w

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication