Written by: Ivana Juchelková
Pregnancy and the period after childbirth are a roller coaster of physical, hormonal and emotional changes for a woman. Her sexuality also changes with them. Let's talk about what intimacy can look like during the transition to parenthood.
Sex and sexuality during pregnancy
The changes that take place in a woman's body during pregnancy affect not only her libido. The body is basically changing before your eyes, you may be surprised by the sensitivity of the breasts, but also the bleeding vaginal tissue. Some women experience a slump in the first trimester as their body struggles with nausea and fatigue. But watch out! There is often an improvement in the second trimester and libido may even increase. The desire for sex and the experience of it can thus be much more intense, but also vice versa.
Changes regarding sexuality during pregnancy are individual for each woman.
If the pregnancy proceeds without complications, there is no need to limit yourself regarding sex. The baby is protected in the womb by amniotic fluid, packaging and a mucus plug. With a growing belly, you just need to adjust sexual positions. Many women prefer positions associated with less pressure on the abdomen. However, if problems arise, such as vaginal bleeding or premature outflow of amniotic fluid, it is appropriate to consult a gynaecologist first.
First sex after childbirth
The first and most important rule regarding sex after the arrival of the baby is to wait until the first gynaecological examination after the end of the six-month period. Then your doctor will check whether the uterus has contracted and everything is healing as it should. That way you will be sure that there is no risk of injury or infection.
Although the pelvic floor is usually weakened and relaxed immediately after childbirth, after six months of pregnancy the muscles of the pelvic floor very often contract. The first (but not only the first) sex after childbirth can be painful for a woman. The tension in the vaginal muscles can even be so strong that they won't even let a finger inside. These changes are completely normal, but don't be afraid to contact a physiotherapist specializing in the female pelvic floor, who will teach you how to consciously relax this area and gently restore flexibility and strength.
Patience in the first place
Although the first milestone after childbirth is considered to be the end of the first trimester, for many women the desire to make love comes much later. The reason may be the postpartum and lactation cocktail of hormones, getting used to a new body, or simply healing - both body and soul. Preparations developed precisely for the period after childbirth will help you speed up this on your body, for example Silver Foam from the brand Gynella. Becoming a new parent is a significant and challenging transition, so it is important to be understanding, kind and open with your partner about your expectations, desires and concerns.
Aids that make your sex life easier
Pregnancy and the period after childbirth are fragile periods when, more than ever, it's time to make room in your life for intimate aids. Whether you are trying to reconnect with your constantly changing body, discover a different dimension of intimacy than just penetrative sex, or trigger an oxytocin wave before (or even during) childbirth, the right intimate aid can be the solution.
Feeling and consciously activating the pelvic floor after childbirth can help Kegel balls. These supply blood to the vaginal wall, return sensation to the entire area and gently stimulate the muscles. The reward can be greater pleasure from making love, a more confident posture and an improvement in postpartum incontinence.