A Thematic Analysis of Couples’ Sexual Well-Being Following a Recent Pregnancy Loss

Pregnancy loss has been linked to poorer mental and relationship well-being. Given that strong sexual well-being is associated with better mental and physical health, understanding sexual well-being following a recent pregnancy loss may contribute to education and treatment models. Yet, little research has examined the effects of pregnancy loss on both couple members’ sexual well-being. Accordingly, using Marks’ team-based method for inductive thematic analysis, this qualitative study examined three open-ended questions regarding how individuals’ (N = 255 individuals, across 133 couples) sexual well-being reportedly changed–positively and negatively–and was supported following a recent pregnancy loss (i.e. within 5 months). We also considered if the identified themes differed in frequency between women and gender-diverse individuals who were pregnant when the loss occurred, and men, women, and gender-diverse partners who were not pregnant. Across participants, we found three themes regarding positive changes (e.g. Relationship growth; A new meaning to sex), five themes related to negative changes (e.g. Decreased desire and frequency; Health and body changes), four themes pertaining to support factors (e.g. Communicating openly; Offering support and respecting readiness), and three themes reflecting: No positive changes, No negative changes, and Nothing done to support sexual well-being. Results of this study may guide psychoeducation to increase awareness of potential changes following pregnancy loss and encourage supportive behaviors to benefit couple members’ sexual well-being.