From MadeForMums · · 2m
Post-Baby Sex Problems & Fixes
7 common sex issues after birth and how to fix them with science-backed advice
In brief
7 common sex issues after birth and how to fix them with science-backed advice Hormonal shifts and parenting demands cause temporary sex changes; seek professional help if problems persist Originally reported by MadeForMums.
Painful sex after birth
65% of mums report less sex than before, 17% have no sex at all due to physical recovery and hormonal shifts
“Sex was a big fat no because I was still in so much pain”
Disappearing libido
Breastfeeding and sleep deprivation cause hormonal drops that reduce sexual desire for many new mothers
“My libido is just non-existent since having the kids, and I'd quite happily not have sex”
Breastfeeding discomfort
Breastfeeding leads to hormonal changes that make breasts feel off-limits during intimacy for some mothers
“I breastfed for the first three years of my son's life, and the thought of being touched there was a huge no”
Post-sex crying
Hormonal fluctuations after birth can cause sudden emotional distress after sexual activity
“I remember after my first baby, we had sex and after the deed was done, I started crying”
Altered sensations
Pelvic floor changes and breastfeeding reduce lubrication, making sex feel different for many new mothers
“Sex feels completely different and I'm worried something is wrong”
Overwhelmed by touch
Sleep deprivation and constant baby care leave many mothers feeling unable to handle physical contact
“I often feel completely 'touched out', and I just don't want anyone touching me or needing anything from me”
Time for intimacy
Parenting demands often push intimacy to the back burner, making it hard to reconnect with partners
“I wish we had more time to be affectionate and intimate. I really miss it. But I know that we will get back to it one day.”
When to seek help
Persistent pain, bleeding, or emotional distress during sex requires medical attention after childbirth
“Speak to your GP if you're experiencing persistent or recurring pain during sex”
Hormonal changes
Postpartum hormonal shifts reduce sexual desire and lubrication for many new mothers
“After childbirth, oestrogen levels fall significantly”
Pelvic floor issues
Childbirth can stretch pelvic floor muscles, causing pain or reduced sensation during sex
“During vaginal birth, the perineum stretches considerably”
Breastfeeding effects
Breastfeeding leads to lactational vaginal atrophy and unexpected milk leakage during intimacy
“I breastfed for the first three years of my son's life, and the thought of being touched there was a huge no”
Emotional responses
Postpartum hormonal changes can cause sudden crying after sex due to emotional distress
“I remember after my first baby, we had sex and after the deed was done, I started crying”
Rebuilding intimacy
Small moments of affection and communication help rebuild intimacy after childbirth
“Make time for small moments together, even if it's simply having a cup of tea without distractions”
Professional support
Pelvic health physiotherapy and psychosexual therapy address specific postpartum sex issues
“Ask about pelvic health physiotherapy, particularly if you're experiencing scar discomfort or pelvic floor problems”
When to worry
Persistent symptoms like pain, bleeding, or emotional distress require medical attention after birth
“Speak to your GP if you're experiencing persistent or recurring pain during sex”
Long-term changes
Sex may feel different permanently for some mothers due to hormonal and physical changes
“For some women, sex eventually feels much as it did before pregnancy”
Here's the gist
Hormonal shifts and parenting demands cause temporary sex changes; seek professional help if problems persist
