A phenomenological study of Jordanian women's experience of sexual intercourse after giving birth

Abstract Aim to explore the sexual experiences of Jordanian women on the first occasion after childbirth. Methods phenomenological qualitative research. Twenty-five Jordanian women were purposively recruited from two maternal health centres and interviewed. Findings four themes emerged: "culture and religion v/s health professionals in resumption of sexual intercourse"; "enduring physical and psychological discomforts"; "husbands' role in resumption of sexual intercourse"; and "newborn babies' role in the sexual relationship experience". Conclusion health professionals need to adopt appropriate maternal clinical guidelines to meet women's needs. There is a need to give greater emphasis on sexual health care provided to women during pregnancy and after giving birth.