Kristen Doute Addresses Intimacy Challenges

The Valley star Kristen Doute, 43, is candidly discussing the impact of parenthood on her relationship with fiancé Luke Broderick. Doute shared her experiences with Us Weekly while celebrating the third season of the Bravo reality show.

'Trying' to Reconnect After Baby Kaia

“I mean, we’re trying. It’s just hard,” Doute admitted. She emphasized her continued attraction to Broderick and desire for intimacy, but explained that exhaustion and focusing on their baby, Kaia, have taken priority. “I’m just tired all the time, and I’m in survival mode. I’m just hyperfocused on Kaia.”

Luke Broderick Shares His Perspective

During the season 3 premiere of The Valley, which aired on Wednesday, April 1, Luke Broderick opened up to costar Jesse Lally about the changes in their relationship. “Our relationship is completely lacking intimacy, which is tough,” he shared. “She shuts down every advance. At what point do you stop trying?”

Date Nights and Body Image

Kristen also revealed to Nia Sanchez that she and Luke haven’t had a date night in almost three months. She also acknowledged struggling with her body image following childbirth. “We’ve always had a healthy sex life,” she explained in a confessional. “But sex made a baby, and sex doesn’t exist.”

Navigating New Parenthood

Despite the difficulties, Luke Broderick remains optimistic. “You know, it’s a roller-coaster becoming new parents,” he said. “I hope all new parents can identify with that. It’s still an up-and-down thing. We do improve. We move past things and something else comes up. So, overall, yes, things have improved.”

Wedding Plans on Hold

Wedding planning is currently on the back burner following the arrival of their baby. Luke stated that the decision regarding the wedding is ultimately Kristen’s. However, he has set a financial boundary: “I have also put a line in the sand that I am a hard no on a wedding that’s going to cost six figures before we have a house that we own.”

Support System

Both Kristen and Luke are grateful for the support of their friends, including Nia Sanchez and Danny Booko. “Nia and Danny, all my friends that have had babies, women online are super supportive,” Kristen shared. “Our relationship took a back seat, but we know that that’s something we have to put more energy into.”