Postpartum sex can be a fraught topic for new mothers. On one hand, many women experience a decreased sex drive after giving birth, which can put a strain on their relationship with their partner. On the other hand, sex can also be a way for couples to reconnect and bond after the physical and emotional demands of childbirth. In this article, we’ll go over some common concerns and questions about postpartum sex and provide some tips for couples looking to get back into the swing of things.
First, let’s talk about the physical changes that can affect a woman’s sex drive after giving birth.
Childbirth can cause significant trauma to the pelvic area, and many women experience pain, swelling, and discomfort during sex in the weeks and months following delivery. Hormonal changes can also play a role, as the body’s production of oestrogen and progesterone drops after giving birth, leading to vaginal dryness and other symptoms.
It’s important to remember that these physical changes are normal and will typically resolve on their own over time. However, it’s also important for women to communicate with their partners and healthcare providers about any discomfort or pain they may be experiencing. If necessary, your healthcare provider can recommend treatments or medications to help alleviate these symptoms.
Another challenge of postpartum sex is the potential for low libido. The hormonal changes that occur during and after pregnancy can affect a woman’s sex drive, and many new mothers may be dealing with fatigue and lack of energy. Additionally, the stress and responsibility of caring for a new baby can be overwhelming, leaving little time or energy for intimacy with a partner. It is important for couples to be understanding and patient with each other during this time, and to communicate openly about their needs and desires.
Whatever you do, take your time.
The worst thing you can do is rush. After giving birth, it’s so important to take things slow when it comes to getting back into the swing of things, especially when it comes to sex. While it’s normal to be eager to reconnect with your partner and resume your physical relationship, rushing into sex too soon after giving birth can have negative consequences.
Your body needs time to heal. The physical effects of childbirth can be significant, and your body needs time to recover.
We recommend having open and honest communication with your partner about your physical and emotional state postpartum. This will help you both understand each other’s needs and desires, and ensure that you’re both on the same page when it comes to getting back into a sexual routine when you are both ready to do so.
It’s important to avoid rushing into sex after giving birth. Your body needs time to heal, and you may be dealing with hormonal and emotional changes that can affect your sex drive. Communicate with your partner and take things slow to ensure that you’re both ready and able to fully enjoy a physical relationship again.
Low Libido Is Completely Normal
First, it’s important to understand that low libido is a normal part of the postpartum period. We are designed that way. Our bodies are dedicating their time and energy to caring for our newborns, rather than making more babies. If you’re experiencing a low libido postpartum and you’re worried; please know that your body is doing exactly what it should be doing.
Low libido, or a lack of interest in sex, is a common problem among new mothers. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, fatigue, stress, and the demands of caring for a newborn. While low libido is a normal and common part of the postpartum period, it can still be frustrating and disappointing for both mothers and their partners.
Many new mothers are exhausted and overwhelmed by the demands of caring for a newborn, and this can understandably affect their interest in sex. It’s important to be patient and understanding with yourself, and to recognise that low libido is a temporary condition that will likely improve over time.
Steps You Can Take To Improve The Intimacy Postpartum
Prioritize self-care
This can include getting plenty of rest, eating well, and engaging in regular exercise. Exercise in particular can be helpful for boosting mood and energy levels, which can in turn improve libido.
Self-care can play a significant role in increasing libido in postpartum women. This is because self-care can help to improve overall health and wellbeing, which can in turn boost mood, energy levels, and sexual desire.
One way that self-care can increase libido in postpartum women is by reducing stress and anxiety. High levels of stress and anxiety can interfere with sexual desire and enjoyment, so reducing these factors can help to improve libido. Self-care activities such as meditation, deep breathing, or regular exercise can all help to reduce stress and improve overall health.
Another way that self-care can increase libido in postpartum women is by improving physical health and vitality. Giving birth can take a toll on a woman’s body, leaving her feeling exhausted and drained. Engaging in regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep can all help to improve physical health and energy levels, which can in turn boost libido.
Additionally, self-care can also improve body image and self-esteem, which are important factors in sexual desire and enjoyment. Many new mothers may feel self-conscious about their postpartum bodies, which can affect their confidence and sexual desire. Engaging in self-care activities such as pampering oneself, dressing in comfortable and attractive clothing, or practicing self-acceptance can all help to improve body image and self-esteem, which can in turn increase libido.
Overall, self-care is an important component of increasing libido in postpartum women. By reducing stress, improving physical health, and boosting body image and self-esteem, self-care can help to improve overall health and wellbeing, which can in turn increase sexual desire and enjoyment.
Open and honest conversation
It can also be helpful to talk openly and honestly with your partner about your low libido. Your partner may be feeling frustrated or confused, and talking about your feelings can help to improve communication and intimacy in your relationship. It’s important to remember that your partner is likely going through their own challenges and changes during the postpartum period, and that open and honest communication is key to maintaining a strong and healthy relationship.
Be open to trying new things
Another effective strategy for overcoming low libido postpartum is to try new sexual activities or positions that may be more comfortable and enjoyable after giving birth. This can include using lubricants, toys, or other aids to enhance pleasure and enjoyment. It’s also important to take things slowly and to listen to your body, as you may need more time to heal and recover after giving birth.
Intimacy does not equal sexual intercourse
Intimacy is a crucial aspect of any relationship, and it goes beyond just sexual intercourse. While sex is certainly a way to connect and be intimate with your partner, there are many other ways that a postpartum couple can be intimate without engaging in sexual intercourse.
One way that a postpartum couple can be intimate without sex is by engaging in physical touch. This can include cuddling, holding hands, or giving each other massages. Physical touch can be a powerful way to connect and show affection, and it can be especially important for postpartum couples who may not be ready for sex.
Another way to be intimate without sex is through communication and emotional connection. This can include sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with your partner, and listening to them with empathy and understanding. Emotional intimacy can be especially important for postpartum couples, as it can help to build trust and strengthen the bond between them.
Additionally, couples can also be intimate without sex through shared activities and experiences. This can include going for walks, cooking together, or enjoying a favorite hobby or activity together. Doing things together can help to build a sense of closeness and connection, and can provide opportunities for intimacy outside of the bedroom.
Intimacy does not have to be limited to sexual intercourse. There are many other ways that postpartum couples can connect and be intimate with each other, such as through physical touch, emotional connection, and shared activities. By exploring these alternative forms of intimacy, postpartum couples can deepen their connection and strengthen their relationship.
Overall, low libido postpartum is one of the most common and normal parts of the postpartum period. By being patient with yourself, and with each other, you can regain the levels of intimacy you enjoyed before having your baby. Many new mothers are dealing with a range of physical and emotional changes, and their sex drive may be different than it was before giving birth. It’s important for partners to be supportive and communicative, and to not take any changes in their sex life personally.