The journey to parenthood involves a transformative shift — parents grapple with the delicate balance of intimacy amid new responsibilities. Experts discuss common challenges and ways to handle them.
Physical changes and hormonal fluctuations, common in women during and after pregnancy, can lead to discomfort and low confidence. These can affect their interest in resuming sexual activity.
Mothers can feel several emotions that can be tough to balance — joy, stress, and anxiety. Men, too, deal with unfamiliar emotions and a new routine. As a result, couples may face communication issues.
Persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, and exhaustion in new mothers due to physical and emotional transitions often lead to postpartum depression. This condition can also affect 8–10% of fathers.
Experts strongly advise abstaining from sex for at least six weeks post-delivery due to potential wear and tear, healing of sutures and the demands of breastfeeding on the body. Once both partners feel ready, here are some tips to resume intimacy.
Open communication is key to rebuilding sex life after having a baby. Both partners should express their feelings, concerns and desires freely and seek professional help if required
Celebrating small achievements helps retain and grow emotional intimacy. Spend quality time together and try to strengthen the emotional bond. Non-sexual acts such as hugging can help.
While resuming intimacy after having a baby, use barrier contraceptives. Progesterone-only pills can be used six weeks after delivery. Avoid oral contraceptives until the baby is five months old.