Intimacy After Childbirth: Sex/ Intercourse can be painful as a new mom
You are not alone & help is available!
Sexual health issues after childbirth are common!
So common that 9 in 10 women reported sexual health issues in the first 3 months postpartum.
Sex & Intimacy Issues After Childbirth
Painful Intercourse
- 86% of first-time moms found it painful the first time they tried to have vaginal sex after childbirth.
- This decreases over time to 45% at 3 months and 23% at 18 months postpartum. This is irrespective of the mode of delivery (c-section 84% vs vaginal birth 87%)
- Some women may continue to have painful intercourse for 6-12 months postpartum or longer
Lack of Lubrication
- Postpartum Vaginal Dryness is common. More than 40% of women report these symptoms after giving birth.
- The tissue of your vaginal becomes thinner, less elastic, and more prone to injury.
- This is due to estrogen levels decreasing postpartum. Estrogen is key for sexual arousal, blood flow, vaginal lubrication and tissue quality.
Loss of Libido
- Loss of libido is very common as adjusting to new responsibilities is overwhelming and takes time!
- Chronic lack of sleep, fatigue, not having time to yourself makes couples feel disconnected and decreases sex drive. Decrease of estrogen levels takes a toll on this as well.
Body Image Concerns
- Physical Changes associated with pregnancy and childbirth cause body image concerns. After childbirth it is common to feel unattractive and self-conscious about your body and this effects intimacy.