Childbirth has several profound and sometimes disturbing effects on the sexual life of both parents, and on their relationship generally. Whilst parenthood classes give excellent information about infant care, and what to expect, it is hard to find good advice and information about sex, and what to expect.

For some new parents, the arrival of the baby does not seem to affect their sex life much, but they are a small minority. Most mothers and a large number of fathers are affected in a variety of ways, all of which are normal, and all of them can pass with time and patience.

Provided a couple can talk to each other about what is going on, and are able to understand each other's feelings, there will be a good adjustment. Where a couple are unable to talk, having a child can make their relationship quite difficult. Misunderstandings and loss of intimacy are the main dangers.

The most common effects of childbirth on sex are the following:

• Physical changes in the mother's body after childbirth.
• Emotional changes in the new mother.
• Sexual changes in the mother after childbirth.
• Impact of Fatherhood.
• Emotional effects of a difficult birth.
• How childbirth changes a couple's relationship.
• Post Natal Depression