Expert Explains, This Is The Reason Why Mother's Sexual Desire To Breastfeed Decreases

Illustration of the reason why breastfeeding mothers' sexual desires decreased (Freepic)

YOGYAKARTA Breastfeeding is the most healthy way to provide nutrition in newborns. Although under certain conditions the provision of formula milk is the most reasonable alternative, breast milk for six months to two years has many benefits for the health of the baby, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Experts discuss the physical and emotional situation in breastfeeding mothers related to the decrease in sexual desire and difficulty in intimacy with their partner while breastfeeding.

Research in 2018 on more than 800 mothers who gave birth for the first time found that breastfeeding was associated with a lack of sexual interest in six months after childbirth, accompanied by pain during sexual intercourse, and vaginal dryness.

Research in 2019 on 300 breastfeeding women found sexual dysfunction occurred in 60 percent of women who took part in the study. So, these two studies are a small picture of how breastfeeding has a major effect on post-treatment sexual life. So what are the reasons for breastfeeding can affect sexual desire?

Every woman has different processes and situations during breastfeeding related to physical, psychological, and emotional changes. This change is hormonal which according to obstetrician Kerry-Anne A.Gordon, DO., FACOOG., MBA. In addition, many people experience low libido during breastfeeding due to the effects of low estrogen. This happens due to an increase in the hormone prolactin, which supports lactation by increasing the supply of breast milk. Then, this condition triggers a decrease in estrogen which can cause dryness in the vagina and reduce libido. Both tend to make the desire to do sexual activity relatively low.

For new parents, of course, they experience a change in role after having a baby. Not infrequently, they get enough sleep which causes fatigue and fatigue during the day. As a result, it further suppresses sexual desire. The nutritional and water content that is needed more when breastfeeding also increases the effect of fatigue, especially for breastfeeding mothers who do not consume enough water and additional calories to replace the loss.

Sexual intercourse involves stimulation to spur certain sensations related to desire. Before pregnancy and breastfeeding, sexual stimulation may cause pleasure to the peak of reaching orgasm. However, according to psychotherapist and sex therapist Shadeen Francis, LMFT., CST., new parents may taste something different. Contact from skin to skin and breast transformation, makes touch very painful for women who are breastfeeding.

According to sexologist and sex educator Myisha Battle reported by Well+Good, Tuesday, November 22, it recommends taking the time to think about the type of ideal sex life you want during the breastfeeding period. The decline in sexual desire during breastfeeding, must be understood that this is a temporary condition. For the time being, he suggests more hugs, kissings, and arms and talks with his partner to maintain connection and intimacy.