Introduction: Postpartum sexuality represents an important yet often overlooked aspect of women’s health. Childbirth can lead to perineal injuries, including episiotomy, which may affect both the physical and emotional experience of sexuality. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis was to examine how an episiotomy wound after childbirth influences women’s sexuality, particularly sexual satisfaction, the presence of pain, the ability to achieve orgasm, and the psychological aspects of sexual experience. Methods The thesis consists of a theoretical and an empirical part. The theoretical section includes a systematic review of professional and scientific literature. The empirical part is based on a quantitative study conducted through an online questionnaire, completed by 1609 women. The collected data were analysed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Results: More than half of the surveyed women underwent an episiotomy during childbirth, which was associated with more frequent pain during or after sexual intercourse and reduced sexual pleasure. Childbirth significantly affects sexual function, with perineal injuries and episiotomy playing a key role, as they can prolong healing and increase the risk of dyspareunia. Psychological factors, such as mental exhaustion, fear, and reduced self-confidence, also influence sexuality after childbirth. Discussion and conclusion: Episiotomy is more common in older and higher-educated women, while minor perineal injuries are more frequent in multiparous women, with individual anatomical characteristics and obstetric management also influencing the risk. Vaginal delivery brings both physical and emotional changes; orgasmic function remains preserved in most women, but pain, vaginal dryness, and reduced arousal may occur, whereas cesarean section does not prevent other sexual difficulties. Sexual satisfaction after childbirth is closely linked to partner dynamics, emotional intimacy, and psychological stability, highlighting the need for comprehensive and individualized postpartum care.
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