SEXperience - Experiences Around SEX with Dr. Smriti Sagar

In conversation with Dr. Smriti Sagar, about postpartum sex life and here’s what she had to say…

“Witnessing the creation of life is the most wonderful feeling, but there are also a lot of complications that my patients go through. Complications throughout the pregnancy, transformation of the body and being roofied on hormones, takes a toll on my patient’s health both physically and mentally. And with the nine long months of continued ups and downs, it’s common to be overwhelmed with the joy of a newborn and the shocking revelation of the little havoc that it causes to the libido.

The most common complaints of my patients are dryness, loss of interest, lack of confidence and poor body image. Also the adaptations and disturbed time table because of the baby does not allow the couples to get intimate and it’s quite common that the loss of interest in sex and intimacy of the new mother can lead to many problems in the relationship in general. But it’s safe to say that most couples feel this strain in their relationship.

The few reminders that I like to share with all the new mothers to gain postpartum confidence are:

- Do not have unrealistic expectations

- Stretch marks on your belly are the tiger strips reminding you how strong you are

- Self love and self-care is of utmost importance

- Relax and appreciate yourself

- Meet your friends, take time out to talk to them and share your feelings

- And the most important one is understanding that you aren’t alone. Sometimes, knowing that someone else is also going through a similar phase as you, helps you a lot.

And my advice to all the new parents would be that, it's the couple who gets pregnant and not just the mother. So, this postpartum period should also be embraced by both the partners.

Sex and intimacy are different things, and you might not be able to ignite the same passion right after giving birth but you can always get intimate. Intimacy can be as simple as holding hands, cuddling, and appreciating each other. Work on your intimacy and sex will come around.”