Sex and Parenting: Keeping Intimacy Alive Through the Chaos of Parenthood
Parenthood changes everything—including intimacy. Between sleepless nights, shifting identities, and the endless demands of caregiving, it’s normal for desire, energy, and erotic connection to feel different (or disappear altogether). But becoming a parent doesn’t mean losing access to pleasure. With compassion, creativity, and conversation, it’s possible to nurture both roles: caregiver and sexual self.
That’s why the CLIMAX Conference in Ottawa, Canada’s first-of-its-kind sexual wellness conference, is dedicating a candid panel to this very topic. Join us as educators and experts explore how parents can keep the erotic charge alive, stay connected to their sexual selves, and navigate the emotional and physical demands of raising children.
Panel: Sex and Parenting at CLIMAX Conference Ottawa
November 8, 2025 — 12:45 PM
Preston Event Centre, Ottawa, Ontario
Sex and Intimacy After Kids: What to Know
Parenthood transforms your body, your relationships, and your sense of self. Sexual intimacy often takes a back seat—not because it’s less important, but because hormones, stress, fatigue, and new responsibilities reshape how we experience desire. The good news? With the right strategies, parents can rebuild erotic connection, explore new ways of experiencing pleasure, and even deepen intimacy.
Why intimacy shifts in parenthood
Like your sleep cycles or your pelvic floor, intimacy adapts to the new demands of life with children. Some of the most common changes include:
Hormonal shifts after pregnancy or during breastfeeding that affect desire and arousal.
Body image and identity changes that influence self-confidence.
Exhaustion and stress that leave little energy for sex.
Relationship role shifts where partners slip into “co-parent” mode instead of lovers.
Recognizing these changes as normal—not personal shortcomings—is the first step toward building a new, sustainable sexual rhythm.
Strategies for keeping intimacy alive
Our CLIMAX panelists will share practical tools, but some core strategies include:
Micro-moments of connection: intimacy doesn’t have to mean intercourse; a kiss, touch, or shared laugh can keep closeness alive.
Open communication: honest conversations about needs, fears, and desires reduce pressure and increase trust.
Redefining pleasure: expanding intimacy to include play, sensuality, and self-pleasure can reignite curiosity.
Self-compassion: giving yourself permission to honor changing desire and move at your own pace.
Meet the CLIMAX Panel
Muse Fontaine (Moderator) — guiding the dialogue with openness and curiosity.
Ona Praderas — speaker bringing lived and professional insights into sexuality and care.
Kat Nantz — educator and advocate for authentic expression and connection.
Bara Al-Obaidy — speaker with a focus on inclusive and culturally aware approaches to wellness.
Together, they’ll unpack the challenges and possibilities of intimacy during parenthood, offering strategies attendees can actually use.
Why it matters
Intimacy supports not just couples, but families as a whole. When parents feel connected, supported, and sexually fulfilled, it strengthens resilience, communication, and joy in everyday life. Reclaiming pleasure isn’t selfish—it’s part of thriving as both a person and a parent.
Join the conversation at CLIMAX
Want to learn more and hear directly from leading voices in sexual wellness?
👉 Join us at CLIMAX Conference — Ottawa’s first Canadian sexual wellness conference — and be part of this powerful conversation on Sex and Parenting.
🎟️ Reserve Your Seat Today — November 8, 2025, Preston Event Centre, Ottawa.
