How do I feel normal having sex after having a baby?

By Shannon Strauch, PTA, STMT-1 on 8/20/2024

The arrival of a new baby is a joyful time, but it can also bring about significant changes in a woman’s body that may affect her sex life. It's common to experience discomfort, pain, or a lack of desire for sex after childbirth. The good news is that pelvic floor therapy can provide effective solutions to help you regain comfort and confidence in your intimate life postpartum.

Why Sex May Be Painful or Difficult After Having a Baby

Understanding the factors that contribute to painful or difficult sex after childbirth is the first step in addressing these issues. Here are some common reasons:

1. Perineal Trauma

   During childbirth, the perineum—the area between the vagina and anus—may stretch or tear, or an episiotomy may be performed. These injuries can lead to scar tissue formation, which may cause pain or discomfort during sex.

2. Pelvic Floor Weakness

   The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in supporting the bladder, uterus, and bowel. Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken these muscles, leading to issues like decreased sensation, pelvic organ prolapse, reduced sexual pleasure, and even incontinence.

3. Hormonal Changes

   Postpartum hormonal shifts, particularly a drop in estrogen, can lead to vaginal dryness, making sex uncomfortable or even painful. Breastfeeding can also contribute to reduced estrogen levels, prolonging these effects.

4. Emotional and Psychological Factors

   The postpartum period can be emotionally challenging. New mothers often experience fatigue, stress, anxiety, or changes in body image, all of which can impact libido and sexual satisfaction.

5. Postpartum Healing

   Whether you had a vaginal delivery or a C-section, your body needs time to heal. The process of recovery can affect your readiness for sexual activity, both physically and mentally.

How Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Help

Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic floor. Here's how it can help you reclaim your sex life:

1. Strengthening Pelvic Floor Muscles and DRA

   A pelvic floor therapist can guide you through exercises designed to strengthen and tone the pelvic floor muscles. This can improve muscle control, enhance sexual sensation, and reduce the risk of incontinence. Pelvic floor therapy can also help with the healing of Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRA), which is the natural separation of your core muscles as your baby is growing.

2. Scar Tissue Management

   If you have scar tissue from a tear, episiotomy, or C-section, pelvic floor therapy can include techniques like myofascial release or massage to soften and mobilize the scar tissue. This can help reduce pain and improve flexibility in the vaginal area.

3. Improving Vaginal Dryness

   Therapists can recommend lubricants, moisturizers, and other strategies to alleviate vaginal dryness. They can also provide guidance on how to gradually resume sexual activity in a way that feels comfortable and enjoyable.

4. Addressing Emotional Well-being

   Pelvic floor therapists understand the emotional aspects of postpartum recovery. They can provide support and resources to help you navigate feelings of anxiety, stress, or self-consciousness that may be affecting your sex life.

5. Education and Empowerment

   Education is a key component of pelvic floor therapy. Your therapist will teach you about your body’s changes, the importance of pelvic health, and strategies to enhance intimacy. This knowledge empowers you to take control of your recovery and sexual health.

6. Restoring Pelvic Floor Relaxation

   Tension in the pelvic floor muscles can contribute to painful sex. Therapists can teach you relaxation techniques to reduce muscle tension, improve blood flow, and increase comfort during sexual activity.

Conclusion

Reclaiming your sex life after having a baby is an important part of your postpartum journey. Pelvic floor therapy offers a personalized approach to addressing the physical and emotional challenges that can arise during this time. By focusing on strengthening, healing, and education, pelvic floor therapy helps women restore confidence, comfort, and satisfaction in their intimate lives. If you're experiencing difficulties with sex after childbirth, reach out to us at Pelvic Health Center in Madison, NJ to set up an evaluation and treatment! Feel free to call us at 908-443-9880 or email us at receptionmadison@pelvichealthnj.com.

Your body has been through an incredible process, and with the right care and attention, you can enjoy a fulfilling and pleasurable sex life once again.

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