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Determinants of Postpartum Sexual Dysfunction in the First Year: A Systematic Review

Aris Boarta1,2, Adrian Gluhovschi2, Marius Lucian Craina2

  • 1Faculty of Medicine, Doctoral School, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.

Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)
|November 27, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Postpartum sexual dysfunction is linked to perineal trauma and early pain. Breastfeeding impacts sexual function initially, while partner support and positive body image offer protection.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Health
  • Women's Health
  • Sexual Health

Background:

  • Postpartum sexual dysfunction (PSD) affects many women within the first year after childbirth.
  • Understanding the factors contributing to PSD is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review somatic and psychosocial determinants of postpartum sexual dysfunction (PSD).
  • To synthesize evidence on factors influencing sexual health in the first 12 months postpartum.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
  • Searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for studies on postpartum women (≤12 months).
  • Included studies reporting validated sexual outcomes, dyspareunia, or sexual activity, examining specific risk factors.

Main Results:

  • Perineal morbidity and early pain were consistently associated with worse sexual outcomes.
  • Assisted vaginal birth and breastfeeding were linked to increased dyspareunia and lower sexual function, particularly in the early postpartum period.
  • Higher partner/family support and positive body image correlated with better sexual function scores.

Conclusions:

  • Perineal trauma and early pain are significant risk factors for PSD.
  • Breastfeeding effects on sexual function are prominent early on but may diminish over time.
  • Psychosocial factors like partner support and body image play a protective role in postpartum sexual health.

Keywords:
FSFIbody imagebreastfeedingdyspareuniapartner supportpelvic painperineal traumapostpartum sexual dysfunction

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