Zero Sex Drive

A woman's body goes through so many changes in pregnancy and the first year after birth. In addition to the hormonal changes that occur with birth and nursing, the vaginal canal can also be affected. Your response is very normal after such a long period of abstinence. Try to approach your intimate life like it is entirely new, as though you were discovering each other for the first time. Redefine your ideas of sex to expand your ideas on foreplay and enjoying each other without specific expectations. Take the time to fall into your body and feel the range of sexual sensations that you haven't experienced for a while. Allowing yourself the time to really experience arousal again will prepare your body for penetration. Apply the same gentleness that you feel for your new baby to the rebirth of your post baby sex-life.

In addition to going slowly and thoughtfully toward intercourse, experiment (and communicate with each other) with both shallow and deep penetration. Consider adding a healthy personal lubricant to your sexual experience, as dryness is a very common side effect of the hormonal changes that accompany both postpartum and nursing. Be sure to stay away from petrochemical and paraben-laden products as they are often irritants to sensitive tissue and can cause burning and itching. If intercourse remains painful you may want to consider consulting your doctor or reading more about vaginismus. There are many techniques that may be helpful in relaxing the vaginal opening including vaginal dialators. If the problem persists a good online resource to review would be http://www.vaginismus.com

Remember to focus on the loving touch and the shared commitment of raising your new family—this loving attention will help you find the solutions to healing your sex life, now and in the future.