Navigating Sex in the Perinatal Period

Title of Event: Navigating Sex in the Perinatal Period

Description of Event:

Individuals are sexual beings throughout the lifespan, including during the perinatal period, and can continue to experience healthy sexual functioning during attempts to become pregnant, throughout pregnancy, and into the postpartum period. Certain factors, however, can impact sexual functioning, including a history of pregnancy loss, infertility, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), hormonal changes, changes in body composition, birth complications, and co-occurring perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Despite the influx of medical appointments and patient education during this time period, addressing sexual functioning is not as common. For mental health therapists, knowing what psychoeducation and interventions to provide for pregnant clients and their partners can also be a challenge.

This program will explore how biological, psychological, interpersonal, and social role changes that occur specifically during the perinatal period can affect sexual functioning in clients. It will also address specific intervention strategies that can be used to treat sexual difficulties clients may face, both individually and with their partners, to improve the quality of sexual functioning and overall intimacy during the pregnancy and postpartum period.  

Date of Event: Friday, October 23rd, 2026 (available after asynchronously)

Time of Event: 12pm-2pm EST

Location: Online Synchronous (and online asynchronous)

Sex Therapy (ST) Training: 

ST3. Theory and methods of approach to intervention in relationship systems experiencing sex and intimacy problems.

Presenter/Speaker: Maria P. Hanzlik, PsyD, HSPP

Contact Name: Maria Hanzlik, PsyD, HSPP

Contact Email: dr.mariaphanzlik@gmail.com

Event Website: https://integratedpsychologicalcenterofindiana.com/continuing-education-for-mental-health-providers

AASECT Approved CEs: 2