There is no denying that after you’ve had a child, your sex life changes. Whether it’s your attitude or the mechanics, there can be many new obstacles to overcome in the bedroom once you’ve welcomed a baby.
While your doctor will probably give you the go-ahead from four weeks after giving birth, don’t be surprised if everything doesn’t work quite how it used to.
With months of bodily changes and fluctuating hormones, we can feel overwhelmed by all the changes we’re going through. However, we believe arming yourself with the information can make things a lot easier.
So, before you begin to worry, here are some things about your sex life that might be a little different than before you had your baby.
You’re not into it
Even though your doctor might have given the green light, your body is still recovering from a pretty major event.
Your hormones are ever-changing, you’re probably exhausted, and your body is healing - so you’re forgiven for not wanting to have sex just yet.
While your partner may want to get things rolling, explain that you’re not ready just yet. There are other ways to express intimacy, so why not explore those until you’re ready?
Your libido is likely lowered due to breastfeeding, but it will return and they’ll be waiting when it does.
Breasts are a no-go area
If you’re breastfeeding, no doubt you’ll be feeling a little tender in the chest area. The slightest touch might make you recoil, but this is to be expected.
They also might not be looking their best, and while your partner might enjoy their growing size, you and your back do not.
After a while, your breasts will begin to return to normal, and the tenderness will lessen. But in the meantime, wearing a bra or fitted top during sex might ease some of your discomfort.
It hurts
With all the changes to your hormones, you can become quite dry in the nether regions – no, there isn’t a nicer way of phrasing that.
This can cause quite a bit of pain during intercourse and, added to the decrease in lubrication that breastfeeding can cause, you can see how problems arise. Not to mention the fact that you pushed a baby out just a few weeks earlier.
Your partner may feel responsible for the problem, but reassure them, and yourself, that this is incredibly common. And there are plenty of products you can buy to help with it.
Confidence is no longer king
It can take up to two months for your uterus to return to its pre-baby size, so you’ll probably still be carrying a baby bump around with you for a while.
With stretch marks, swollen limbs and the previously mentioned larger breasts, it’s natural to be very aware of the difference in your body.
As with everything after having a baby, don’t put too much pressure on yourself. You have just done something incredible, and a few marks here and there should be celebrated like war paint.
Your partner is likely more impressed by the amazing things your body can do than the fact that you’re carrying a little extra weight.
