Postpartum and sexuality: maternal perspectives and adjustments

Abstract

Aim: to analyze the perspectives and maternal adaptations of sexuality in the puerperium and to identify if there were guidelines in prenatal care. Method: qualitative, exploratory and descriptive, at the Hospital Dom Malan, in Petrolina - Pernambuco, with 12 postpartum women interviewed, according to content thematic analysis. Results: Fear of pain was the main expectation, besides the fear of a new pregnancy, concerns about the care of the baby and insecurity with the body itself. The dialogue with the partner was important for the maintenance of the relationship. The women stated that there were no prenatal guidelines. Conclusion: After the baby's birth, the couple needs to make many adjustments to gradually regain their intimacy. In this context, the nurse has a fundamental role, since he/she has the knowledge to offer necessary information regarding the puerperium, favoring a healthy and pleasurable maternal experience of return to sexuality.

Keywords

• sexualidade
• maternidade
• puerpério