Why you're not in the mood
There are many factors that contribute to the lack of sexual desire, say experts, and these include:You're exhausted. When you find yourself with some downtime, sleep can seem a lot more appealing than sex.
You're in discomfort. In the months after birth, you may be sore, or have tender breasts. And if breastfeeding, your estrogen levels are lower, resulting in dryness and further discomfort. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), it's important to wait until tissues have completely healed -- which takes about four weeks -- before resuming sexual activity.
You have decreased desire. What goes up, must come down. This is true of post-pregnancy hormone levels, and consequently, sexual urges. It's also not unusual to feel less attractive after giving birth -- which doesn't do much for desire. Chances are you've got some post-baby weight to lose, or are so busy caring for the baby that you haven't had time to devote to things that make you feel good about yourself, like exercise or getting a manicure.
But rest assured, at some point you will probably feel ready, willing, and able to have sex again. Before you lower the lights and get down to business with your partner, get the OK from your doctor, and remember that rebuilding a sex life takes time.
