How to Help Your Wife Recover Sensation After Childbirth

During intercourse, my wife experiences discomfort?

Hello, before my wife gave birth, we had a normal sexual life and she was quite responsive.
However, after she gave birth (vaginal delivery), our child is now over three years old, and my wife no longer feels much sensation during intercourse.
When we are in a normal position and I penetrate deeply, she often says that her vagina feels very sore.
I have researched online and found that it may be due to her vagina not having fully recovered.
How can I help my wife return to her normal state? Should I continue to massage her uterus like during the postpartum recovery phase? Thank you.

A Bin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/23

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Pain in the deep vaginal area during sexual intercourse may be caused by: 1.
Injury to the vagina during childbirth; 2.
Endometriosis or adhesions in the pelvic cavity; 3.
Relaxation or injury of the uterine ligaments.
These causes require clinical examination for diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2020/09/23

More Info

Recovering sensation after childbirth is a common concern for many women, and it can be influenced by various factors, including physical changes, hormonal shifts, and psychological aspects. Here are some strategies that may help your wife regain sensation and improve her overall comfort during intimacy:
1. Consult a Healthcare Professional: The first step is to encourage your wife to speak with her healthcare provider, such as an obstetrician or a pelvic floor specialist. They can assess her condition, rule out any underlying issues, and provide personalized recommendations. Sometimes, physical therapy focused on pelvic floor rehabilitation can be beneficial.

2. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Kegel exercises can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which may improve sensation and support recovery. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles that control urination. Your wife can start with a few repetitions daily and gradually increase the number as she becomes more comfortable.

3. Gentle Massage: While the idea of massaging the uterus to aid recovery is not commonly recommended, gentle perineal massage can help increase blood flow and elasticity in the vaginal area. This can be done with a natural oil or lubricant, and it may help your wife feel more comfortable and connected to her body.

4. Use of Lubricants: If dryness is an issue, using water-based or silicone-based lubricants during intercourse can enhance comfort and reduce any discomfort associated with friction. This can make the experience more pleasurable and less painful.

5. Gradual Reintroduction to Intimacy: It’s essential to take things slow. Start with non-penetrative activities, such as kissing, cuddling, and oral sex, to help her feel more comfortable and connected. Gradually reintroducing penetrative sex can help her adjust without feeling overwhelmed.

6. Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication about what feels good and what doesn’t. This can help both partners understand each other’s needs and make adjustments to enhance comfort and pleasure.

7. Hormonal Considerations: After childbirth, hormonal changes can lead to vaginal dryness and decreased sensation. If this is a concern, discussing options such as vaginal moisturizers or hormonal treatments with a healthcare provider may be beneficial.

8. Psychological Support: Sometimes, the emotional aspects of childbirth can affect intimacy. If your wife is experiencing anxiety or stress related to sex after childbirth, consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor who specializes in postpartum issues.

9. Patience and Understanding: Recovery can take time, and it’s essential to be patient and supportive. Encourage your wife to focus on her comfort and well-being, and reassure her that it’s okay to take things at her own pace.

10. Explore Different Positions: Some sexual positions may be more comfortable than others. Experimenting with different positions can help find what works best for both of you, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.

In summary, helping your wife recover sensation after childbirth involves a combination of physical, emotional, and relational strategies. Encouraging her to seek professional advice, practicing pelvic floor exercises, using lubricants, and maintaining open communication can all contribute to a more satisfying intimate life. Remember, recovery is a journey, and being supportive and understanding will go a long way in helping her feel comfortable and connected again.

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