Breastfeeding and sexuality: an interface in the experience of puerperium

Abstract

Objective: understand the influence of breastfeeding on the experience of sexuality from the perspective of a group of recent mothers. Method: descriptive and qualitative research conducted with women who were experiencing puerperium. Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews and submitted to thematic content analysis of the operative proposal. Results: the experience of sexuality during breastfeeding was marked by discomfort related to changes in sexual relationship, bodily changes, restricted time of the women with the partner, besides some negative behaviors of the partner. In other cases, breastfeeding did not bring significant changes in the experience of sexuality, contributing to the friendship and partnership between the couple. Conclusions: It is necessary to broaden the perspectives on the theme of sexuality during breastfeeding, perceiving it as a basic human need that needs to be discussed among women, couples and healthcare professionals.