Codispoti, Godecker, Kushner co-author study on postpartum sexual health counseling

UW Department of Ob-Gyn resident Nicolette Codispoti, MD, MS, MPH, Research Scientist Amy Godecker, PhD, MS, and David Kushner, MD, professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, co-authored a new study published in Sexual Health. Additional authors include Jessica Walker, MD, Victoria Weickert, and Makeba Williams, MD. 

In “Understanding patient perspectives of sexual health counseling in postpartum care”, the authors examined how frequently patients received sexual health counseling during postpartum visits and how helpful they found those conversations. Among 277 survey respondents, 91% reported receiving some counseling, but only half considered it helpful. Counseling also varied by parity, delivery method, and whether the patient had resumed intercourse. Researchers described the importance of their study: 

“Sexual health in the postpartum period contributes to a patient’s overall well-being, highlighting the importance of addressing concerns that may arise related to sexual dysfunction. The comprehensive postpartum visit should include providing guidance on sexuality, management of dyspareunia, and resumption of intercourse.”

Read the whole article here. 

**by Ob-Gyn Communications Intern Eiman Mir