Sexual experiences of new fathers in the first year postpartum

Objectives: The transition to parenthood is a complex and challenging time, often negatively impacting sexual relationships. Much has been documented regarding this trend in the sexual health of new mothers. The sexual experiences of new fathers in the postpartum period, however, remain significantly underrepresented in the extant literature. Methods: Utilizing a thematic analysis informed approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 first-time, heterosexual, cisgender fathers (ages 26 to 44). Results: Nine major themes emerged with regard to new fathers' sexuality in the year postpartum: (1) Changes in Attraction to Partner, (2) Changes to Sexual Interests and Behaviors, (3) Changes to Sexual Frequency, (4) Changes Father Would Make to Approaching Partnered Sex, (5) Changes to Sexual Quality, (6) Reactions to Sexual Changes, (7) Reduced Sexual Satisfaction, (8) Experiences with Breastfeeding, and (9) Communication about Postpartum Sex. Beyond sexual frequency and quality, these data also highlighted several previously unidentified factors affecting the postpartum sexual experiences of new fathers. Conclusions: The current study affirms that the year postpartum is a dynamic and complex transitional period during which new fathers reported a number of key changes to their individual sexuality (e.g., fantasy, sexual interests and arousal, masturbation practices, sense of self as a sexual partner), sexual relationship with their partner, and overall relationship satisfaction. This study illustrates a need for further research into the sexual experiences of new fathers, particularly given the capacity to impact overall relationship satisfaction and health. Clinical implications regarding the transition to parenthood are also addressed.