Sexuality in Different Phases of the Transition to Parenthood

Abstract

The transition to parenthood brings changes in many areas
of life, including the area of sexuality. The aim of this study
was to examine differences in the frequency of sexual
intercourse, sexual satisfaction and the sexual self-schema of
participants in different stages of their transition to
parenthood. The study involved men and women without
children, those who were expecting their first child, and
parents of six-month-old and one-year-old children (N =
650). The results showed that participants in different stages
of transition to parenthood differed in the frequency of
sexual intercourse, but not in their sexual satisfaction and
sexual self-schema. Men and women without children and
parents of one-year-olds reported more frequent sexual
intercourse than those expecting their first child and parents
of six-month-old children, although these differences were
statistically significant only in the female sample. Men,
compared to women, reported more frequent sexual
intercourse and greater sexual satisfaction. The research
results demonstrate the complexity of sexual functioning
during the transition to parenthood and can be applied in
providing psychosocial support during this period of life.