After giving birth, many women experience a variety of physical and emotional changes, including changes in their sexuality. Postpartum sex, or sex after childbirth, is a topic that is often not discussed enough.

Here’s what to expect when it comes to postpartum sex:.

1. Vaginal Dryness

After giving birth, many women experience vaginal dryness. This can be due to hormonal changes as well as the trauma that the vagina experiences during childbirth. The lack of natural lubrication can make sex uncomfortable or even painful.

Talking to your doctor can help determine the best course of action to treat this issue.

2. Pain During Sex

Women may experience pain during sex after giving birth due to the stretching and tearing of vaginal tissue during childbirth. This can lead to scar tissue, which may also cause discomfort during sex.

It is important to take things slow, communicate with your partner, and possibly use lubrication or other comfortable positions to help alleviate discomfort.

3. Fatigue

Having a newborn can be exhausting, and sleep deprivation can be a common occurrence. This can make sex less appealing or desirable, and it’s important to listen to your body and take the rest you need.

It’s also helpful to talk with your partner about how to navigate intimacy during this challenging period.

4. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes can impact sex drive and energy levels after giving birth. For some women, the hormonal fluctuations can lead to decreased libido, while others may experience an increase in sexual desire.

It’s important to communicate with your partner and take things at your own pace.

5. Emotional Changes

The postpartum period can be full of emotional ups and downs, which can impact sexual desire and feelings of intimacy. The physical changes associated with pregnancy and childbirth can also influence self-image.

It’s important to communicate with your partner about how you are feeling and what kind of support you need to feel comfortable and confident.

6. Breastfeeding

For women who are breastfeeding, hormonal changes can impact vaginal dryness and libido. Some women who breastfeed may experience less sexual desire due to hormonal changes, while others may experience an increased sex drive.

It’s important to communicate with your partner and recognize that breastfeeding can impact sexual experiences.

7. Risk of Infection

After giving birth, there is a risk of infection in the vaginal area. It is important to wait until your doctor gives clearance before having sex again to ensure that your body has had enough time to heal.

8. Contraception

After giving birth, it’s important to discuss contraception options with your doctor, as you can still become pregnant even if you are breastfeeding.

Using appropriate forms of contraception can help prevent unplanned pregnancies and allow you to feel more comfortable engaging in sexual activity.

9. Pelvic Floor Weakness

Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, which can impact sexual experiences. Performing pelvic floor exercises can help to strengthen these muscles and improve sexual health.

10. Patience and Communication

Patience and communication are key when it comes to postpartum sex. It’s important to communicate with your partner about how you are feeling and take things at your own pace.

It may take time to feel comfortable and confident again, but with open communication and patience, sexual experiences can improve.