Many new mothers struggle with low libido while breastfeeding. This is normal and a natural part of motherhood!
Hormone fluctuations are one of the biggest reasons for this. High levels of prolactin, which promotes milk production, push down estrogen and testosterone, which are both important for sexual desire. This is not permanent, however!
1. Drink more water.
It’s no secret that new moms experience a lot of hormonal changes after giving birth. But what many women don’t realize is that breastfeeding can directly impact their libido.
This is due to the fact that breastfeeding stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes maternal bonding. Oxytocin is also involved in sexual arousal and is released during orgasms. The combination of lowered estrogen and progesterone, as well as vaginal dryness, can leave some breastfeeding mothers with little interest in sex.
But it’s important to know that the lack of libido that some women experience while breastfeeding is normal and temporary. As time goes by and hormone levels return to normal, libido will increase. Until then, there are a few things that breastfeeding mothers can do to boost their interest in the bedroom.
2. Get a good night’s sleep.
New moms are incredibly tired, and even when their babies are sleeping through the night (which is rare) it’s common for new parents to be waking up multiple times per day to feed, change diapers and soothe a fussy baby. Lack of sleep makes everyone groggy, and can reduce libido in both partners.
Breastfeeding also raises prolactin, a hormone that decreases estrogen and testosterone levels. This can make some new mothers feel less interested in sex, but it’s important to remember that this is completely normal and should return to pre-pregnancy levels once the baby starts eating solid food and nursing becomes a thing of the past.
The good news is that, despite the many challenges, breastfeeding and sex can co-exist for most couples. If you’re having trouble finding a balance between intimacy and the demands of parenting, it can help to talk to your partner about your concerns or seek support from local breastfeeding groups such as La Leche League Canada. These are great places to find a supportive community and get advice from experienced moms.
3. Eat healthy.
It is not uncommon for new mothers to feel exhausted and have a low libido while breastfeeding. This is due to the fact that a baby will nurse five, six, seven, eight or even more times in a 24-hour period. This constant nursing can lead to an empty nipple, dry vaginal tissue and a loss of lubrication during sexual intercourse.
The hormonal changes that occur while breastfeeding can also contribute to low libido. This is due to the fact that the prolactin hormone, which increases milk production, lowers estrogen and testosterone levels – all of which play a role in sexual desire. Breastfeeding also releases oxytocin, which encourages bonding with the baby and can have the same effect on a woman’s libido as an orgasm.
If a new mother has a low libido while nursing, she should try to find ways to create intimacy in other ways. It is also important to remember that a lack of desire does not mean that the mom or her partner no longer love each other. Some women may also choose to use libido pills, but this should always be done with caution and after consulting with a doctor.
4. Exercise.
Getting back into a fitness routine can be difficult after having a baby. If you can, try to get some form of exercise in during the day or night that doesn’t interfere with breastfeeding. This will help you feel healthier, more energetic and a little bit better about your body.
Taking the time to relax and do things for yourself can also improve libido. Deep breathing exercises, yoga, and activities that promote stress relief can all make a big difference.
Breastfeeding can be very exhausting and can cause a major dip in a woman’s libido. This is mainly due to the hormone changes. Your body releases a hormone called prolactin that suppresses the production of estrogen and testosterone, which can cause your libido to drop.
However, it’s important to remember that this is normal and not permanent. Once your hormones return to their normal levels, you should find that sex becomes enjoyable again. Using an all-natural lubricant like Chiavaye can also be beneficial in ensuring a good sex experience while breastfeeding. You can use this lubricant to moisturize your nipples and for oral sex as well.
5. Stay positive.
Many new moms are surprised to find their sex drive takes a dive while breastfeeding. But it’s totally normal — and not necessarily a bad thing! It’s a combination of factors, including recovery from birth and exhaustion, plus the hormone loopty-loops of breastfeeding.
A woman’s libido is directly related to her hormone levels, and during breastfeeding, a mother’s prolactin spikes while her estrogen and progesterone levels are low. Breastfeeding also releases oxytocin, which is a mood-enhancing, bonding hormone (hence its other nickname: “the love hormone”).
So, yes, sex can still happen while breastfeeding, but it’s important to remember that it may feel different from what you were used to. The good news is, as your body gets back to normal and you wean, your libido should return. And if you’re looking for some help in the meantime, there are a variety of safe, natural ways to increase your libido while breastfeeding. Just be sure to consult with your doctor before trying any supplements. They can assess your health history and breastfeeding relationship to ensure safety for both you and your baby.
