A Pilot Study: Midwives’ Perceptions and Practices Regarding the Sexualization of Childbirth in the Ottawa Area

It is still taboo to associate sexuality with childbirth. Many research studies have been published on sexuality during pregnancy, the first year postpartum and breastfeeding. However, little is known about sexuality during childbirth. The purpose of this pilot study is to describe the perceptions and practices of midwives practicing in the Ottawa region regarding the sexualisation of childbirth. The objectives of the study are: 1) to assess the attitudes of midwives practicing in the Ottawa area regarding sexuality during labor and delivery; 2) to assess the practices of midwives in relation to the sexualization of childbirth; 3) to develop an online questionnaire, conduct its face validity, pre-test it and then utilize it in the pilot study; and 4) seek more qualitative data through a focus group on the midwives’ perceptions and practices.

Contact:  Viola Polomeno, vpolomen@uottawa.ca

End date: February 2016