Pleasure and Childbirth (2 CE Hours)

Due to a centuries-old madonna/whore dichotomy that falsely divides mothers from sexual women, pleasure and childbirth are rarely spoken about together. This course explores where the two intersect, covering sexuality during pregnancy and postpartum as well as pleasure-based tools to improve childbirth.

Changes in sexual functioning before and after childbirth are common and can be both welcome and unwelcome. For some, alterations in hormones or positioning of sexual organs can create new pathways to pleasure. Others complain of problems like reduced desire or pain during sex. Survivors of sexual trauma may feel triggered by the pregnancy or birthing process. I will describe how to address these issues through education, counseling, and resources like pelvic floor physical therapy.

Views of childbirth as an inherently negative experience — combined with hospital environments that prioritize efficiency and caution — often prevent the exploration of pleasure to improve pregnancy and labor. However, some parents report pleasurable or orgasmic births resulting from soothing and pleasant environments, minimal interventions, and help from sex-positive professionals. Masturbation, vibrators, and BDSM concepts like code words and impact can provide a sense of safety along with physical sensations that improve the birthing experience.

After presenting these ideas, I will share fictional case studies with participants and lead a group discussion around approaches to various cases involving parents’ sexuality.