Sex After Birth: Common Concerns and How to Address Them
As you navigate the beautiful journey of motherhood, it's natural to have questions and concerns about resuming sexual intimacy after childbirth.
Rest assured, you're not alone, and in this article, we'll address some common concerns and provide guidance on how to address them. 💕
Healing and Physical Recovery
After childbirth, your body goes through a remarkable process of healing and recovery. It's crucial to give yourself time to heal before resuming sexual activity.
Vaginal tears or episiotomies may require several weeks to heal, while C-section incisions may take longer.
Listen to your healthcare provider's advice regarding when it's safe to engage in sexual activity. It's essential to prioritize your physical recovery and not rush the process.
Hormonal Changes and Libido
Pregnancy and childbirth bring significant hormonal changes to your body, which can impact your libido or sex drive.
Some women may experience a decrease in libido, while others may feel a renewed desire for intimacy. These changes are normal and can be influenced by factors such as breastfeeding, fatigue, and hormonal fluctuations.
Don't worry if your libido isn't back to normal right away. Give yourself time, and remember that every woman's journey is unique.
Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort
One common concern after childbirth is vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex. This can be caused by hormonal changes, breastfeeding, or inadequate lubrication. To address this concern, consider the following tips:
Foreplay and Lubrication: Engage in plenty of foreplay to enhance arousal and natural lubrication. Additionally, use a water-based lubricant to reduce friction and increase comfort.
Kegel Exercises: Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles through Kegel exercises can improve vaginal tone and increase blood flow, which may alleviate dryness.
Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: If vaginal dryness persists or causes significant discomfort, consult your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and recommend suitable treatments or interventions.
Communication and Emotional Intimacy
Open and honest communication with your partner is vital when it comes to sex after birth. Both of you may have concerns, anxieties, or questions about resuming sexual activity.
It's important to express your feelings, desires, and any physical or emotional discomfort you may be experiencing. Remember these key points:
Patience and Understanding: Understand that your body has gone through significant changes, and it may take time to feel comfortable and confident in your postpartum body.
Emotional Connection: Prioritize emotional intimacy and bonding with your partner. Engage in activities that strengthen your connection, such as cuddling, holding hands, or having meaningful conversations.
Seek Support: If you or your partner are struggling with emotional challenges, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor who specializes in postpartum issues. They can help you navigate the transition and provide guidance on fostering intimacy.
Linda Hutson
Sex Therapist
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Amber
14 Jun 2023
Sex after birth.
I have birth at 28 weeks and I finally stopped bleeding and having discharge. She is 4 weeks. Would my body have already healed because I didn’t go to term?
No ur body still needs time to heal. That’s why you wait the full six weeks. But since you are not fully healed yet then it could be Lochia. Which is just a mucusy discharge you get after you stop bleeding. It’s still your body’s way of healing. Even if you didn’t go full term you still have a wound from where your baby and placenta was and your body needs time to adjust back.
27 Mar 2024
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Emily
30 May 2022
WARNING SENSITIVE TOPIC: SEX.
Looking for advice or share your experiences if you are comfortable.
My husband I had sex after not having it the past 3 weeks. I'm almost 31 weeks. Last time it was extremely painful but he wanted to to try it so I thought I would give it a shot. It was extremely painful. Literally feels like my cervix is being pulled and stretched. We even used lube thinking maybe it would help (which it didn't). No wonder they say sex induces labor. Not sure how I'm gonna go another 9 weeks. I also want to make my husband happy. Would love to hear how you are coping especially if your not having sex anymore.
I'm really worried about how our sex life is gonna change after baby and also if sex will be enjoyable or how much it changes after you have given birth. I'm worried and would love to hear from you mama's.
Because of some issues with placenta previa and bleeding my boyfriend and I switched to focusing on foreplay and oral and i know it kept him satisfied, I miss vaginal but also If you are open to it try anal ? Just a thought , I actually got to where I enjoyed it although at 31 weeks the last time we did it it was pretty uncomfortable for me... Idk it's rough for sure but I just keep thinking this won't last forever and we will be able to resume normal activity sooner than later , hang in there girl!!! ❤️
27 Mar 2024
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Tyyyyy
My experience with my first i couldn’t have sex like u said it was painful and uncomfortable so I just never did it until after I had the bby once bby was here it was kinda painful and uncomfortable the first few times we tried because of how tight it was😭 but after the few times it went back to normal this go round I’ve actually been able to have sex all the way up until now
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