New Study: Sexual Expectations During Pregnancy
New Study: Sexual Expectations During Pregnancy
In this study we introduce two new measures of sexual expectations during pregnancy: the Maternal and Partner Sexual Impact Expectations Scales (PIES-M/S). These scales quantify the impact pregnant individuals and their partners expect the pregnancy to have on their sex lives. Our choice to focus on sexual expectations during pregnancy was rooted in our commitment to understanding marginalization, stigmatization, and within the context of sexuality and gender. Pregnancy is a unique period marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes. The heavy regulations and cultural expectations placed on pregnant individuals add another layer of complexity to their sexual experiences and expectations. By examining these expectations, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of how marginalization and stigmatization infiltrate intimate aspects of life, such as sex.
Our expectations are shaped by our past experiences and the social messages we receive, reflecting our various identities. This is especially true during pregnancy, a time when legal, religious, and cultural norms heavily influence the lives of women and people who can become pregnant. These regulations and societal pressures likely shape the sexual expectations that pregnant individuals. Consequently, these expectations can also affect how individuals perceive their sexual partners during pregnancy, potentially altering relationship dynamics. Sex scientists often explore constructs like sexual and relationship satisfaction due to their relevance to many people’s lives. However, what is frequently overlooked is the impact of initial expectations on subsequent satisfaction. Understanding what individuals expect in their sexual relationships can provide valuable insights into their overall satisfaction and how unmet expectations can lead to dissatisfaction. This study aligns with the concept of “intimate justice,” which explores how inequalities and injustices manifest in personal and intimate spheres. Understanding sexual expectations during pregnancy offers a glimpse into the subtle ways in which societal pressures and stigmatization affect sexual lives. This insight is crucial for developing interventions and support systems that address these hidden impacts.
In summary, the development of the Maternal and Partner Sexual Impact Expectations Scales (PIES-M/S) is rooted in a desire to understand the nuanced ways in which expectations shape sexual experiences during pregnancy. By examining these expectations, researchers aim to uncover the influences of marginalization and stigmatization on sexual satisfaction and relationship dynamics. This study not only contributes to the field of sex research but also highlights the importance of considering societal impacts on intimate aspects of life.
