Breastfeeding is an experience that heals and develops mother and child but also significantly affects a woman’s body, hormone levels, and emotions. Several new mothers describe that their sexuality is not in balance at this time, and their tolerance level for intimacy changes as well. While some women become more sexually active because of the increased sensitivity of their breasts, some become apathetic about sex because of fatigue, hormonal changes, or physical discomfort. Learning to cope with these changes and navigating through them can enable couples to stay intimate despite adapting to having a newborn. One of the main reasons why a woman’s sexual desire varies while she is breastfeeding is due to a change in the hormone levels.
The body releases large amounts of prolactin, which is a hormone that stimulates the production of milk. Although prolactin is vital in supplying the baby with nutrients, it also inhibits estrogen and testosterone, two of the hormones that are crucial to sexual desire. Decreased estrogen causes vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, and overall disinterest in sex. Testosterone, which is involved in sexual stimulation and energy levels, is also lowered during this period, and some women tend to feel less interested in intimate contact. Oxytocin, another hormone secreted while breastfeeding, has been called the “love hormone” because it encourages mother-infant bonding. Although oxytocin is able to build emotional closeness, it can also change the way a woman responds to physical touch.
A few mothers will feel incredibly close to their baby while nursing and not necessarily want other physical intimacy with their partner. Others will have more reservations but may find an increase in general affection rather than sexual desire. Each woman reacts in a unique manner, and such hormonal fluctuations take from a few months to the full course of lactation. Physical alterations also lead to alterations in sexual ease. The breasts, engorged with milk, can become tender or more sensitive than normal, and therefore some forms of touch become difficult. Women leak during arousal, which may be a novel and at times embarrassing part of postpartum sexuality.
Also, vaginal dryness due to decreased estrogen levels may cause sex to be painful or uncomfortable. A water-based or natural lubricant can reduce discomfort and increase pleasure. Fatigue is also a significant cause of low sexual desire during breastfeeding. New mothers tend to get little sleep, have constant feedings, and the physical exhaustion of having a newborn. When the body is tired, naturally the need for intimacy takes a backseat to the need for rest and recuperation. Many women will opt for sleep over sex merely because they are tired.
Partners can help assist a new mother by taking nighttime responsibilities, providing assistance with the baby, and giving her time to sleep, which in turn may make her feel more relaxed and receptive to intimacy. Emotional and psychological processes also play a part in a lactating woman’s sexual drive. Becoming a mother is a time of great happiness, but also one of stress, anxiety, or changes in self-concept. Some women are dissatisfied with their postpartum body and become self-conscious about it. Weight gain, stretch marks, or breast shape changes can cause a loss of sense of attractiveness and make them avoid sexual activity. Open discussion with a partner about these feelings can restore confidence and promote emotional intimacy.
Breastfeeding makes some women more sexually aroused because of increased nipple sensitivity. The breasts have many nerve endings, and for some people, breastfeeding can increase their general sensitivity to touch and pleasure. This is very individual, though, and whereas some people might enjoy it as a good experience, others might feel overstimulated and want minimal breast contact in intimate situations. It is possible to know one’s own comfort level and to talk to a partner about what one wants, in order to ensure that both parties feel comfortable and respected. Navigating intimacy while breastfeeding calls for patience and understanding on both partners’ ends. Open communication is the key to ensuring healthy relationships, and addressing any discomfort or concern can avoid misunderstandings. A woman’s body is undergoing major transformations, and intimacy must be handled with care and respect. If sexual appetite is low, one might try emphasizing non-sexual affection, such as cuddling, massages, or intimate talks, to ensure emotional closeness. As time passes and breastfeeding habits adjust and hormone levels start to normalize, most women discover that their libido returns to normal gradually. The adjustment time is different for everyone, and there is no right or wrong way to experience intimacy at this stage of life. By being proactive about self-care, staying open and honest, and making efforts to reestablish emotional closeness, couples can get through the challenges of postpartum intimacy and strengthen their relationship.
Posted inPleasure Pregnancy Sex Life Sexual Wellness Women
