More than 60 per cent of Australian women suffer from sexual dysfunction after childbirth, according to an Australian study that a researcher says is the first of its kind.
The study, Prevalence and Risk Factors of Sexual Dysfunction in Postpartum Australian Women, was conducted at Curtin University in Western Australia.
It surveyed 325 women and found 64.3 per cent suffered some sort of sexual dissatisfaction, including the inability to orgasm, pain during sexual activity, or a general lack of interest.
One of the researchers Marjan Khajehei said it was the first study of its kind to focus on post-natal women.
“Before this, we couldn’t find any published material, no research in journals or any hospital reports,” she said.
The study found sexual dysfunction could lead to an overall relationship dissatisfaction, as well as post-natal depression.
Dr Khajehei said busy lifestyles after having a child meant sex was at the bottom of couples’ priorities.
“People underestimate the significance of a healthy sexual relationship, and a healthy sexual life… they think there are many other more important things like their job, the baby, chores, everything,” she said.
“Because they underestimate the significance, they don’t notice the negative effects of this problem.”
The research also showed that 88 per cent of women did not consult healthcare professionals about the issue, due to shyness or embarrassment.
Dr Khajehei said couples and healthcare professionals needed more education on the topic.
“Women should be encouraged to talk openly with their GPs and their nurses, same with the practitioners… give them realistic ideas of the changes in their body, their relationship, everything, so they don’t get surprised and disappointed,” she said.
“Assessment of sexual function, mental health and quality of relationship should be considered a routine assessment.”
Dr Khajehei said the study showed short appointment times were another factor in women not seeking advice.
“Visiting times are limited, and if they want to discuss all aspects of their health after childhood, this can be another barrier,” she said.
The study has been published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine.