Having a baby is one of the most joyous and challenging times of your life. It’s normal for intimacy with your partner to take some time to adjust. There are about a million reasons for this difficulty, but here are a few:
– Exhaustion
– “Baby blues” or post-partum depression
– Feeling isolated or alone
– “Roller coaster” emotions, rapidly fluctuating emotions
– Feeling unattractive and undesirable
– Decreased or lack of sexual desire
– Difficulty becoming aroused
A few helpful hints for surviving the next couple months:
- Talk! Adjusting to the role of becoming a mother is a process! Tell your partner about how you’re feeling and ask for his help and understanding.
- Find support. Talk to other new moms you trust. It is so helpful to know that you aren’t alone!
- Get information. Ask your doctor about any physical difficulties with intimacy, the impact of breastfeeding on intimacy, etc.
- Ask for help. Consider investing in counseling, if needed. If feelings of sadness or depression worsen and begin affecting your daily life, you may need a little extra help. Counseling can also benefit post-baby difficulties in your relationship. It can help ease the transition, restore sexual intimacy, and aid in understanding and communication.
Let me know if you’d like help finding resources!