Tips for Sexual Pain During Gestation and After Birth ~ For All Genders
Many people assigned female at birth find that sex is particularly painful during gestation or soon after childbirth. Read on for my top tips for feeling better. Click HERE to download the FREE worksheet to do on your own or with a partner(s).
COMMUNICATE
- People who discuss sexual pain with their partner(s) report greater satisfaction with sexual activities, despite the discomfort.
- You can use this worksheet as a starting point for discussing sexual pain with your partner(s).
DECREASE STRESS
- When people are stressed, they report more pain with sexual activities, and that pain tends to persist longer.
- Try waiting for a time when you are rested to engage in sexual activities.
- For lovely worksheet on making a wellness plan for after birth, click HERE.
LUBRICATE
- The lining of the external and internal genitalia can be more sensitive during gestation and after birth, even if someone had a Cesarean birth. Likewise, that anus maybe more sensitive due to hemorrhoids worsened by hormonal changes.
- A lubricant can serve to reduce friction and pain.
- If you are using condoms, consider Good Clean Love, Slippery Stuff, or anything by Sliquid. If you are not using condoms, consider coconut oil or Yes Oil-based. Remember that oil can breakdown a condom.
- Avoid any lubricants with glycerin, propylene glycol, or chlorhexidine as these chemicals can irritate mucus membranes and increase the risk of infection.
POSITION
- Gestation: sidelying and seated positions may be more comfortable
- After birth: positions that maximize control may be more comfortable
GET HELP
- If you are not satisfied with how you feel during sexual activities, don’t hesitate to get help from a provider specializing in pelvic pain and/or a pelvic floor physical therapist.
- You can find a pelvic floor physical therapist through the search tool at pelvicrehab.com or ptl.womenshealthapta.org/ and go category -> Transgender Pelvic Health
