After giving birth, sex may not seem like a priority for many new mothers. The journey through pregnancy, labor, and delivery can be a physically and emotionally taxing experience.
However, it’s important for women to feel comfortable and confident in their sexuality in order to fully enjoy intimacy with their partners. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips on how to enjoy sex after giving birth.
Get Clearance from Your Doctor
Before engaging in any sexual activity, it’s important to get the green light from your doctor. Typically, women are advised to wait 4-6 weeks after a vaginal birth and 6-8 weeks after a cesarean delivery before resuming sexual activity.
This will allow your body time to heal and reduce the risk of infection.
Take it Slow
It’s important to remember that every woman’s body is different, and it may take some time to feel comfortable with sex after giving birth. Start slow, and communicate with your partner about what feels comfortable and what doesn’t.
Don’t push yourself, and remember that you’re in control of your body.
Experiment with Positions
Changes to your body after giving birth may require some experimentation with new positions. You may find that some positions are uncomfortable, while others feel great.
Be open to trying new things, and communicate with your partner about what feels good and what doesn’t.
Use Lubrication
During and after pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through a lot of hormonal changes that can affect vaginal lubrication. Even if you feel mentally ready for sex, your body may not be producing enough natural lubrication to make it comfortable.
Using a water-based lubricant can help ease any discomfort and improve overall sexual experience.
Practice Kegels
Kegel exercises, which involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, can help improve sexual function and pleasure.
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These muscles can become weakened during pregnancy and childbirth, leading to urinary incontinence and reduced sensitivity during sex. Consistently practicing kegels postpartum can help strengthen these muscles and improve overall sexual enjoyment.
Don’t Ignore Your Emotions
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, and it’s important to prioritize self-care. Don’t ignore your emotions, and communicate with your partner about how you’re feeling.
If you’re experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety, seeking professional help can improve your overall wellbeing and sexual satisfaction.
Consider Birth Control
Many new mothers may not be ready to become pregnant again right away, and it’s important to consider birth control options. Hormonal birth control methods can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.
Be sure to discuss birth control options with your doctor to determine the best option for you.
Communicate with Your Partner
Communication is key in any sexual relationship, and this is especially true after giving birth. Talk to your partner about your needs and desires, and be open to their feedback as well. Don’t be afraid to initiate sex or try new things together.
Remember that sex should be enjoyable for both partners, and open communication can help improve satisfaction for both of you.
Take Care of Yourself
Finally, taking care of yourself outside of the bedroom is important for overall sexual satisfaction. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep can improve mood and energy levels.
Scheduling some alone time to indulge in self-care activities like taking a bath, reading a book, or practicing yoga can also help reduce stress and increase libido.
Conclusion
Sex after giving birth can be a daunting prospect for many women, but it’s important to remember that it’s a natural part of life.
Taking the time to communicate with your partner, prioritize self-care, and seek professional help if needed can improve overall sexual satisfaction. Remember to take it slow, experiment with new positions and lubrication, and practice kegels for increased pleasure.
