After the baby arrives, between breastfeeding, upheavals, diaper changes and sometimes sleepless nights, the question of sexuality is not always at the heart of priorities.
However, regaining intimacy after childbirth is essential for your well-being and for your relationship. But how to reconnect with your body? How soon can we resume reporting? What positions are recommended? In this article we give you advice on how to approach all of this with as much peace as possible.
Why do I no longer have libido after giving birth?
The most obvious reason is fatigue: whether due to the body's recovery following intense effort (vaginal delivery) or an operation (caesarean section) or even restless nights, physical and moral fatigue has a significant impact.
But you should also know that hormonal fluctuations do not stop with the end of pregnancy. After giving birth, oxytocin levels drop sharply, which can cause stress. Declining estrogen and progesterone levels are another factor responsible for the baby blues experienced by some women.
All of these factors have an impact on morale and libido and it is important for new mothers to find ways to manage them. Taking time to rest, eat healthily, and practice relaxation techniques can help reduce fatigue and restore hormonal balance.
The importance of communication with your partner
Both partners may have different concerns and needs regarding sex life after childbirth. It is important to listen to everyone's feelings and discuss your expectations and feelings. Maintaining a good emotional connection with your partner can help overcome difficulties during this time.
If you don't know how to approach the subject with your partner, you can suggest that they read this article or listen to podcasts on the subject (we offer you an episode at the end of the article). This is a good way to start the discussion and can lead you to open up little by little.
How to reconnect with your body after childbirth?
Certain activities can help you regain confidence in your body and feel good. Getting back into sports or gentle activities that promote well-being are a good way to reconnect with your body. It's also a good time to go for a massage, for example, in a salon or at home!
Masturbation can also play an important role in reconnecting with your body. This allows you to maintain intimacy with your own body and to rediscover sensations and pleasure. Brands like NU·E offer a gentle approach to awaken your senses. Their Cime vibrator has been designed with texture but also a velvet effect to make the experience as pleasant as possible. Health professionals recognize the benefits of external stimulation of the clitoris or internal stimulation with the different diameters of Cime on the rehabilitation of the perineum.
How soon can we resume reporting?
It all depends on your feelings and your delivery. After a vaginal birth, it is generally recommended to wait 3 weeks. After a cesarean section, the time is extended a little, between 4 to 6 weeks. And after an episiotomy you have to wait on average 6 weeks, but it all depends on the healing.
Of course, these deadlines depend on each person and there are no rules. In addition, sexuality is not just about penetration and finding intimacy with your partner can also involve cuddling or kissing. This is the time to explore new forms of intimacy, to rediscover your relationship without pressure and taking your time.
What positions are recommended postpartum?
Certain sexual positions are often recommended for resuming sexuality postpartum, but once again the most important thing is to listen to your feelings. If you feel pain or discomfort, stop and consider trying another position.
- Spooning position: This position allows for shallower penetration and reduces pressure on the lower abdomen, which may be more comfortable.
- Woman on top position: In this position, the woman has control over the pace and depth of penetration, allowing her to better control any possible discomfort.
- Modified missionary position: Placing a pillow under the woman's hips can help reduce pressure on the perineum and make penetration more comfortable.
- Modified doggy-style position: Instead of being on her knees, the woman can lie on her stomach with a pillow under the pelvis to reduce pressure on the pelvic area.
Which healthcare professional can I talk to about this?
If you encounter problems or need to speak to a healthcare professional, your midwife, gynecologist or doctor will be able to give appropriate advice. You can also consult a sexologist, who is trained to help couples overcome psychological or physical difficulties. The main thing is to talk to a healthcare professional you trust.
In addition to this article, you can listen to our podcast episode with Pauline Schilacci, who is a sexologist and who answers all your questions about sexuality during and after pregnancy. You can also consult her book “Pregnant, I adapt my sexuality! » which addresses the different aspects of the sexuality of pregnant women and young mothers, alone or as a couple.