WeMoms
24 May 2022

Recovering a blooming sexuality after childbirth

The body undergoes many changes with childbirth, and it is sometimes difficult for mothers to resume sexuality serenely. Your partner's desire should not be the only reason why you decide to resume sexual relations. Here are a few tips to stay attentive to your own needs:


  • After giving birth, your hormone levels drop, which can make you feel tired and reduce your desire. It is important to accept this time imposed on your body and not rush into things.
  • Try to explore your desire and discuss it with your partner. They will understand that you need time before having sex again.
  • After giving birth, accepting your body is not always easy. Your partner can help you by showing tenderness and kindness so that you regain confidence and feel good about your body.
  • It is recommended that you wait until the episiotomy heals completely and the lochia (blood loss after childbirth) is over, not to rush your body.
  • When you have intercourse for the first time after your baby arrives, you may feel some vaginal pain. This is perfectly normal. However, if it persists afterward, you may want to talk to your doctor.
  • Resume your sex life gradually by offering your partner caresses or massages. If you feel stressed, talk to them so that you can adapt positions and gestures according to the way you feel.
  • The resumption of sexual life and complicity of the couple is important so that the bonds with your partner do not distend.
  • Fatigue and new responsibilities can sometimes put a strain on sexual desire. If you can, leave your baby with someone you trust for an evening to spend some time relaxing with your partner.
  • Also, ask for perineal reeducation sessions to tone up the perineum. This muscle plays a major role in a fulfilled sexuality.

In this article

The return of desire in the couple after childbirth

1

After giving birth, you may find it difficult to resume a fulfilling sex life with your partner:

  • If you had an episiotomy, wait until it is completely healed.
  • Listening to your body's needs and desires is most important.
  • If after 5 or 6 months, you and your partner are unable to regain your desire, it is important to talk about it together and/or to consult a professional.