The sexual activity during pregnancy among a group of Iranian women

Background Pregnancy is the best time in a woman’s life. Hormonal and physiological changes influence women’s well-being, mood, and sexual behavior. Objective The aim of this study was to explore women’s sexual behavior during pregnancy. Method Open-ended interviews were conducted with pregnant women who were referred to the teaching clinic in Gorgan. All of the interviews were tape recorded. The data were coded and categorized as is usual in qualitative methods. Results The data were categorized as “low sex desire”, “anxious of harmfulness”, and “sexual myths”. Seventy-three percent of the women reported low libido during pregnancy. Most of the participants changed their coitus positions. Forty-five percent of them preferred the “rear position”. None of the women sought counseling or information from a doctor or midwife, due mainly to shyness in talking about sex. Conclusion Many women experience some problems in their sex life during pregnancy, which can contribute to significant emotional distress. However, women may not seek professional expertise in their attempt to alleviate this condition. It is important to assess the beliefs and experiences of all women, including the pregnant ones.