Women's Postpartum Sexual and Reproductive Health: A Qualitative Study in an Iranian setting

Background Despite the significance of the postpartum period, women's postpartum sexual and reproductive health (SRH) has been neglected. This study examines women's perceptions and experiences of SRH in the postpartum period. Methods This qualitative study utilized conventional content analysis. The research was conducted in health centers in Ilam, Iran. The target population comprised parous women (six weeks to one year after childbirth). Sampling took place from November 5, 2022, to March 16, 2023. In-depth, semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 17 women in the first postpartum year and six service providers. Sampling continued purposively until data saturation. All interviews were audio-recorded and then transcribed. The transcripts were analyzed based on the steps proposed by Zhang and Wildemuth Results Twenty-three women participated in the study (six midwives and 17 mothers). The analysis of the interviews led to the emergence of four categories: marital dissatisfaction, husband's and family's supportive role, psychological conflicts, and a defective health system, with 14 subcategories. These findings highlight the complex interplay of emotional, social, and systemic factors that influence women's postpartum sexual and reproductive health, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support and targeted interventions. Conclusion The study results indicate that women's postpartum SRH has been neglected for various reasons, and women themselves do not have a comprehensive and correct perception of this period. Multifaceted interventions are needed in the postpartum period to improve women's SRH.