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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Midwives and Obstetricians/Gynecologists on Sexual Activity During

Eleni Charitopoulou1, Angeliki Bolou1, Vikentia Harizopoulou1

  • 1Department of Midwifery, School of Health and Care Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece.

Clinics and Practice
|July 27, 2026
PubMed

Background: Sexual health is a key component of quality of life and an essential aspect of holistic maternity care. During pregnancy, changes in sexual function are often accompanied by fears and misconceptions, which are influenced by healthcare professionals' counseling. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of midwives and obstetricians/gynecologists in Greece regarding sexual activity during pregnancy. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an anonymous, self-administered questionnaire. Participants included 121 healthcare professionals (73 midwives and 48 obstetricians/gynecologists). Data were analyzed using appropriate non-parametric statistical tests and multiple linear regression analysis. Results: The majority of participants (97.5%) considered sexual activity during pregnancy to be beneficial. Midwives demonstrated significantly higher scores on the knowledge assessment compared to obstetricians/gynecologists (67.7 ± 18.0 vs. 54.8 ± 24.2, p = 0.001) and more frequently selected the questionnaire response indicating benefits for both the couple and the fetus (46.6% vs. 27.1%, p = 0.031). A higher proportion of midwives perceived that pregnant women do not receive adequate information regarding their sexual health (93.2% vs. 68.8%, p < 0.001). Obstetricians/gynecologists were more likely to recommend restrictions even in low-risk pregnancies. Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for improved education and standardized counseling protocols on sexual health during pregnancy, with particular emphasis on strengthening the role of midwives in delivering holistic, woman-centered care.

Keywords:
maternity caremidwivesobstetricians/gynecologistspregnancysexual counselingsexual health

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