Breastfeeding and sex
Breastfeeding and sex, how does it all work? How will you feel? Will your hormones play havoc with your libido? How does your partner feel about it? How long after birth do you have to wait to be intimate again?
I remember being told time and time again that my baby should fit in with my lifestyle. My boss used to tell me that in some countries women would go back to work the same day they gave birth. Talk about pressure.
These attitudes about life remaining the same after baby is born are also seen in the media so often, with Hollywood stars back at work and looking sexy just weeks after birth. And although it's not something as easily spoken about as other baby topics, I am left to assume that attitudes towards breastfeeding and sex are the same.
But often there are mixed feelings. I find that many mums worry about milk leaking during sex, and how breastfeeding will affect their libido, what their breasts will look like now that they are breastfeeding.
I think a lot of concern also comes from the fact that in many cultures breasts are seen as sexual objects, hence the discomfort with breastfeeding in public. So if these sexual objects are being used to mother and nurture your baby does that make them unsexy? Or can they be enjoyed in both instances?
Physically and hormonally you are going through many changes and you probably will be for many months following the birth of your baby. Accept and embrace the changes and talk to your partner about them. He will be going through changes too. Treat the early weeks –and if you like months– as a time to grow and nurture other aspects of your relationship.
You will know when you are comfortable to resume sex and it's different for everyone. In the articles below I have explored the different feelings you and your partner may be experiencing, how to cope with the feelings and how to plan for intimacy so that you can enjoy both breastfeeding and sexuality.
Do you know someone who may find this article helpful?
If so click 
to SHARE it.
Related articles you may be interested in:
Sex After Birth
Research shows that breastfeeding mums take a little longer to have sex after birth. So when is it a good time to get back into it?
Painful Intercourse
It's common for many women to experience painful intercourse up to 6 months after the birth of their baby. Find out why and what you can do if you're one of them.
Low Libido
Most breastfeeding women feel that they have low libido compared to their formula feeding friends. Is it hormonal or related to the intimacy of breastfeeding?
Changes in Breasts
Breasts change many times while breastfeeding. Find out if the changes in breasts change the way you are intimate and what you can do to help.
Return from Breastfeeding and Sex to The Essence of Breastfeeding
