Your baby is finally asleep and you’re in the mood for intimacy with your partner. You’ve been exhausted and not really in the mood for a while, but now you’re ready. There’s only one problem. Sex hurts!
What?
No, you’re not alone and this is a very common concern for moms who are breastfeeding or pumping. Your vagina may feel dry and tight and have trouble stretching to accommodate your partner. You may also notice some itching and odor.
Why this happens?
The hormone prolactin that stimulates milk production also inhibits and blocks some of our estrogen production. And estrogen is necessary to have a happy and healthy vagina that stretches and makes natural lubrication. Without estrogen, the vaginal micro-biome also gets disrupted leading to changes in pH and more irritation and possibly infections.
It’s not fair and it’s not fun. But you do not have to suffer through this.
Do:
- Use contraception unless you want to get pregnant again
- Use lube – Your favorite water, silicone, oil based or hybrid
- Consider a vaginal re-moisturizer –Look for one with hyaluronic acid, which is a moisture magnet
- Talk to your provider about using a small amount of vaginal estrogen – this will NOT interfere with or lower your milk supply
Take your time, have fun and be prepared for your breasts to leak milk while making love.
You can download my award winning Personal Guide to Breastfeeding here.
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