2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-22 03:30
Do you know the effects of pregnancy hormones in the postpartum period? In this article, you will learn the roles of the two main pregnancy hormones and their effects on your sexual he alth after childbirth.
In addition, we will suggest some tips to prevent and/or reduce the symptoms of postpartum hormonal changes.
The two main pregnancy hormones are estrogen and progesterone.
ESTROGEN: Estrogen is a hormone secreted mainly by the ovaries, it acts on the uterus so that it enlarges and the endometrium thickens. This hormone also increases your blood circulation and stimulates the activation of other hormones important to the development of your body and that of your baby. Sexually, estrogen plays a role in libido and lubrication.
PROGESTERONE: Progesterone, on the other hand, plays an important role in fetal development and stimulates breast development in preparation for breastfeeding. Estrogen and progesterone are present in increasing amounts during pregnancy and fallquickly at the time of delivery.
The drop in estrogen and progesterone is followed by an increase in prolactin. The latter is a hormone that is important for milk production - its concentration increases each time you breastfeed. Prolactin levels stay high to help you breastfeed until the nipple sucking reflex kicks in and milk production becomes reflexive. It is important to recognize that prolactin interferes with the estrogen level in your body - if your prolactin levels are high, such as when breastfeeding, the estrogen level remains relatively low.
As mentioned earlier, estrogen increases your blood circulation during pregnancy. During postpartum estrogen deficiency, blood circulation is slower relative to pregnancy. This deficiency can reduce good blood supply to the skin and, therefore, can affect its hydration and elasticity and, consequently, cause vaginal dryness. This condition causes the skin around your urethra, vulva, and vagina to become thinner, tender, and fragile. Prolactin can also contribute to a decrease in vaginal lubrication and thus increase dryness. These are normal changes due to hormones, but can become bothersome if they cause pain with intercourse or uncomfortable urinary symptoms like increased urinary frequency or burning sensation during sex.urination.
There are solutions to make you more comfortable during this period of hormonal deficiency.
1. Do your pelvic floor exercises - muscle activity promotes better circulation to the perineum and can help reduce symptoms of dryness. If you are not sure which exercises would be appropriate for you, consult a perineal and pelvic rehabilitation physiotherapist.
2. Try a natural water-based lubricant, preferably paraben-free, during sex to reduce irritation and friction on your skin
3. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap to wash your vulva - scented soaps may increase irritation and make your symptoms worse
4. A vaginal moisturizer such as Gynatrof can be applied once a day, or as needed, to restore vulvovaginal skin to better he alth.
5. Talk to your doctor if symptoms persist - your he althcare professional may suggest a topical hormonal cream.
