No mojo postpartum? Let’s talk about it.
Low libido postpartum. I’ve been getting so many questions about this topic, so let’s talk about it.
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Firstly, we have to take time to acknowledge the wonder of the female body. We’ve just spent 9 months creating an entirely new human being (and a new organ at that). Give yourself a pat on the back — seriously!
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It’s also important to note that there are drastic hormonal changes that take place once we give birth. The hormones progesterone and estrogen plummet, which can decrease sex drive and climax. The hormone prolactin is also in full force, which can also diminish libido. That said, however, these hormonal fluctuations are very natural and in my opinion, by nature’s design (in most cases). I like to think about these libido-lowering hormonal changes as nature’s birth control.
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Another factor is our new routine and schedule. We have a baby to care for. We’re probably not sleeping nearly as much as we used to and when we do, it’s interrupted. A new baby can require all of our attention and focus, and most of us are doing way more on top of that. Stress crushes libido...which is also by nature’s design.
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What am I trying to say here?
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Mama, there isn't something necessarily wrong with you. Give yourself grace and time to adjust to all of the changes happening physically and emotionally around you. It’s okay.
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Make sure you’re fueled. Food is the one thing in our control that can lower stress. We’re also in a depleted state and need to replenish.
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Delegate tasks to family and friends to free up more time for you. Get them to help babysit, cook, clean, etc.
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Clearly communicate what you need from your partner. This is an amazing new chapter for both of you. They can pick up the slack where you need them to most.
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And my favorite, flex your “no” muscle. Really prioritize what you say “yes” to.
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Of course, if you feel like your low libido is being driven by greater issues, seek help. There’s no shame in that — ever.
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You got this, mama!
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Not medical advice.
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This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before pursuing any changes to your personal healthcare regime.
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References
Brighten, J. (2015). Healing Your Body Naturally After Childbirth: The New Mom’s Guide to Navigating the Fourth Trimester. Dr. Jolene Brighten.
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