Does Breastfeeding Impact Your Sex Life?

I often see clients in my practice who are new parents and experiencing a lot of changes in their sex lives after having a baby. Of course, having a child can change your life a lot, but one of the factors that parents and healthcare providers often overlook is how breastfeeding can affect women’s sexual experiences. In this post, I will try to delve into the impact of breastfeeding on women’s sexual experiences and offer some advice on navigating this transition.

How does breastfeeding impact women’s sex drive?

1. When a woman breastfeeds, prolactin, a hormone that stimulates milk production, is also released. Prolactin levels increase in response to breastfeeding and can cause vaginal dryness and low libido. This vaginal dryness on its own leads to discomfort during penetrative sex and, subsequently, lower sex drive. 

2. Breastfeeding can also influence a woman’s physical comfort during sexual activity. It can cause sore nipples and breast engorgement, which can make sexual activity uncomfortable or unpleasant for many. Additionally, the physical act of breastfeeding can cause changes in the breast tissue and nipple sensitivity, which can also negatively affect sexual pleasure.

3. Emotionally, breastfeeding can potentially impact women’s sense of self and body image. The demands of breastfeeding can result in fatigue, overwhelm and feeling “touched out”. Some women may struggle with their new bodies due to weight changes, stretch marks, and breast size and shape changes. These factors can impact an individual’s self-esteem and desire for sex.

So, what shall we do to navigate these changes?

1.Be compassionate with yourself during this time: many women feel pressured into re-engaging in sex after childbirth too quickly before they are ready. Healthcare providers usually tell them that they are ready to have sex 6-8 weeks after birth. This leaves many women feeling abnormal if they do not desire sex after this period. I think the best you can do is to be compassionate towards yourself and your changing body and identity; give yourself time, and your sex drive will return. 

2. Communication with your partner: It is important to communicate candidly about how you feel physically and emotionally. Discuss your desires, concerns, and any physical discomfort you may be experiencing. Remember that your partner may also experience emotional and physical changes during this time. Hopefully, you both can have this conversation with empathy and understanding. 

3. Prioritize self-care: Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally during this time is crucial. Make time for rest, exercise, and activities that bring you joy. Practice self-compassion and remember that your body has undergone significant changes during pregnancy and childbirth.

4. Use lubrication: If you are experiencing vaginal dryness, using a water-based lubricant can help make sexual activity more comfortable.

5. Seek support: It is very common for women to struggle with body image issues or emotional challenges related to breastfeeding and sexuality. Please consider seeking support from a therapist or counsellor specialising in these areas. 

Remember to be patient with yourself as you navigate this transition, and remember that it is natural for your sex life to shift during this time of significant change.

I wish you all the best.