Postpartum Intimacy: What to Expect and How to Navigate It
Happy Baby Stretch
By Dr. Erica Magruder, Physical Therapist at Empower Your Pelvis in Kansas City
Postpartum intimacy can be... different. After giving birth, your body might feel like it's still not entirely your own. Between the exhaustion, the overwhelming responsibilities, and the unexpected milk leaks, intimacy can feel like a challenge. But don’t worry—there are ways to reconnect with your partner and work around these barriers.
Finding New Ways to Create Intimacy
Understanding your own love language, as well as your partner’s, can be a game-changer in building intimacy. Physical touch, for instance, doesn’t always have to mean intercourse. Consider other forms of affection—whether it’s making out, cuddling, or simply finding touch that feels good to you.
Butterfly Stretch
Communication is also key. But let’s be honest, some conversations can be draining. So, choose your topics wisely. Focus on discussions that bring you closer, and perhaps steer clear of stress-inducing subjects like finances, chores, or family drama.
And let’s not forget about the power of a good date night! Whether it’s a creative afternoon date or a cozy evening at home while the baby naps, prioritizing time together can do wonders for your relationship.
Scheduling Time for Intimacy
Scheduling intimacy might sound unromantic, but it’s often necessary, especially during the postpartum period. Remember, intimacy isn’t just about the grand finale. It’s about finding ways to connect that work for both you and your partner.
Here are some ideas:
During nap time
After the baby’s bedtime
While the baby is playing
Even when you have visitors—let them babysit while you take some time for yourselves
The key is to make time for each other, even when it feels like there isn’t any.
Preparing Your Body for Intimacy
Before diving back into postpartum intimacy, take some time to prepare your body. Here are a few exercises to help you get started:
Breath Work
Use diaphragmatic breathing to connect with your pelvic floor muscles, helping them relax and prepare for intimacy.
Stretching
Incorporate gentle stretches like Extended Child’s Pose, Reclined Butterfly, and Happy Baby into your routine. Pair these with your breathwork to further relax your pelvic floor muscles.
Child’s Pose Stretch
Pelvic Wand
A pelvic wand can be a helpful tool for directly lengthening your pelvic floor muscles. Consult with your pelvic floor physical therapist to learn the best techniques for your needs.
Communicate Your Needs
Your partner isn’t a mind reader. If you’re feeling self-conscious, worried about leaking milk, experiencing pain, or simply exhausted, it’s important to communicate these feelings. Whether it’s asking for help around the house or setting the mood with dimmed lights and a clean room, expressing your needs is crucial to a fulfilling postpartum intimacy experience.
Remember, There’s No Right Time
There’s no universal timeline for when you should resume sex after having a baby. While your doctor might clear you at six weeks, that doesn’t mean you’re obligated to jump back in if you’re not ready. Everyone’s timeline is different. If you’re eager, go for it! If you’re hesitant, take your time and use this guide to ease back into it.
Postpartum intimacy can—and should—be as wonderful as it was before. If you have any questions or need to discuss your personal postpartum experience, feel free to reach out to our clinic.
Recommended Products for Postpartum Intimacy:
Lubrication:
Slippery Stuff
Good Clean Love
Coconu (Use Code: EYP for a discount)
Pelvic Wand by Intimate Rose:
Use code AMANDA4 for $5 off at checkout
Book Recommendation:
Come as You Are by Emily Nagoski
Navigating postpartum intimacy might be challenging, but with the right tools and communication, it can be a beautiful experience for you and your partner.
Get Professional Help
If you're looking for “pelvic floor therapy near me”, consider scheduling a consultation at one of our locations in Kansas City-Overland Park, Kansas, or Lees Summit, Missouri. Click here to book your appointment.
Join the LEAKAGE LOCKDOWN Program
Ready to make a change and address urinary leakage? Join the LEAKAGE LOCKDOWN program for comprehensive support and solutions.
With wellness in your pelvis-
Amanda Fisher
Owner, Empower Your Pelvis, a pelvic floor therapist in Kansas City (Overland Park, KS and Lees Summit, MO)