This research intended to study the repercussions in conjugality of the transition to parenthood. We conducted qualitative research, through semi-structured interviews, with four men and five women, parents of first-born children with ages ranging between 12 and 25 months, with typical development. The research was carried out with independent subjects, belonging to the middle class of the city of Rio de Janeiro. The collected data were submitted to content analysis and five categories emerged: (1) Parental Project: from the desire to the ideal moment for the child s arrival; (2) Transformation of conjugal intimacy; (3) Marital conflicts: motivations and resolution strategies; (4) The impact of work on marital and parental dynamics; (5) Influences of the family of origin. Results showed reduction in the frequency and spontaneity of sexual relations, decrease in time spent together and the development of new behaviors to express intimacy. The main reasons for conflict were the relationship with families of origin, child care and division of house chores. Regarding the pattern of response to conflicts, the new parents made less use of constructive strategies and more use of withdrawal and avoidance behaviors. The extended family was cited by all respondents as an essential part of the social network, being able to offer help and support in times of crisis. It was also observed that the mental representation that men and women make in relation to the previous generation is a predictor of their behavior as parents. We conclude that marital satisfaction is affected by different factors in the transition to parenting.