Yes, Virginia, There Is Sex After Baby!

After nine months of physical and emotional changes, hormone imbalances, and the drama of labor and childbirth, you may be wondering if you’ll ever want to or be able to have sex again. It is perfectly understandable to feel anxious, but rest assured - there is such a thing as sex after baby.

It may not be exactly the same as it once was as you continue your physical recovery from pregnancy and delivery and as you and your partner adjust to a new little life in the house, but your sex life does not have to end. In fact, many couples have found that they actually enjoy sex more after having a baby.

The important thing to remember is that you are both going through an adjustment period, so it may take some time to find your balance. Just try and relax - take your time and don’t feel that you need to rush into anything. You may not be ready for it yet, or your partner may not be. Try to give each other some space and the freedom to say no if need be.

Having gone through the experience of becoming parents, you may need to take some time to rediscover yourselves as partners. Make time for the two of you to be alone, even if it’s just for cuddling and conversation. You might even want to hire a babysitter once a week and establish a "date night".

When it comes to the physical side of things, you may be a bit out of shape or have some specific concerns about the after effects of an episiotomy or a Cesarean. Talk about this with your partner, and remember to take his concerns into consideration as well. But you needn’t feel that you have to abstain…the use of lubricants, even a warm shower, can help ease you over your physical concerns, and get you in the mood too! And remember, it’s about quality, not quantity, so don’t worry if it’s not happening a lot as long you’re having fun when it does.

A new baby means a new life, but that doesn’t meant you have to let go of the old one entirely. Re-confirming your partnership can make you stronger as parents, which is good for everyone. So don’t forget to enjoy yourself - you’ve earned it!