LIVING FEMALE SEXUALITY IN THE PREGNANCY CYCLE

Abstract

Objective: to analyze the experience of women's sexuality during pregnancy through physical, psychological and interpersonal aspects of pregnancy and its impact on female sexuality. Material and Methods: this study was conducted with 25 pregnant women enrolled in the public healthcare unit Major Sales-RN using a semi-structured questionnaire applied between May and November 2011. Results: the experience of female sexuality in the pregnancy cycle is influenced by morphological, physiological and psychological changes, receiving interference of myths, taboos, cultural aspects, as well as woman's ignorance about their own bodies and sexuality. With regard to the assistance of health professionals working in the healthcare unit on the sexuality of pregnant women, it was found that there is no assistance directed to aspects of sexuality during pregnancy in the prenatal. In addition, sexual orientation is mostly provided by health professionals who do not work in healthcare unit and provide a standardized approach covering only the physiological aspects of the subjects. Conclusion: The prenatal care currently provided is not satisfactory to meet the biopsychosocial needs of pregnant women and their companions. DESCRIPTORS: Sexual Behavior. Sexuality. Pregnancy.