Does breastfeeding decrease libido?

Understanding the Impact of Breastfeeding on Libido
Breastfeeding is a profound experience for many new mothers, but it can also bring about unexpected changes in various aspects of life, including sexual desire. The relationship between breastfeeding and libido is complex, influenced by hormonal shifts, physical discomfort, and emotional factors.
Hormonal Changes and Libido
One of the primary reasons breastfeeding can decrease libido is due to hormonal changes. When a woman breastfeeds, her body produces higher levels of the hormone prolactin, which is essential for milk production. However, elevated prolactin levels can lead to lower estrogen levels, a hormone that plays a crucial role in sexual desire and arousal. As estrogen levels drop, many women report experiencing a reduced sex drive, making intimacy feel less appealing or even uncomfortable.
Physical Discomfort and Exhaustion
In addition to hormonal influences, physical discomfort associated with breastfeeding can also contribute to a decrease in libido. Many mothers experience tenderness in their breasts, which can make sexual activity less pleasurable. Furthermore, the exhaustion that often accompanies caring for a newborn can leave little energy for intimacy. The combination of fatigue and physical discomfort can create a significant barrier to sexual desire.
Emotional Factors and Relationship Dynamics
The emotional landscape during the postpartum period can also affect libido. New mothers may feel overwhelmed by the demands of motherhood, leading to stress and anxiety that can further diminish sexual desire. The shift in focus from the couple’s relationship to the needs of the baby can create feelings of disconnect between partners, making it challenging to prioritize intimacy.
Variability Among Women
It’s important to note that the impact of breastfeeding on libido can vary widely among women. Some may experience a significant decrease in sexual desire, while others may not notice much change at all. Studies indicate that anywhere from 20% to 83% of breastfeeding women report some form of sexual dysfunction or reduced sexual activity during this period. This variability can be attributed to individual differences in hormonal responses, personal circumstances, and relationship dynamics.
Coping Strategies
For those experiencing a decline in libido while breastfeeding, there are several strategies that may help. Open communication with partners about feelings and needs can foster intimacy and understanding. Additionally, finding ways to reconnect emotionally and physically, such as through non-sexual affection or scheduled intimate time, can help ease the transition back to a fulfilling sexual relationship.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding can indeed lead to a decrease in libido for many women due to hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and emotional factors, the experience is not universal. Understanding these dynamics can help new mothers navigate their sexual health during this transformative time.

Will my libido come back after breastfeeding?

Postpartum low libido can be experienced for months postpartum and even years. Scientifically, if you’re breastfeeding, oxytocin (referred to as the love hormone) and prolactin increase, which can replace a woman’s desire for sex.

How long does it take for fertility to return after breastfeeding?

Every woman is unique and your fertility will return in its own time. Some mothers get periods very early on while breastfeeding. Others may only get their periods back after the first year of breastfeeding.

How long does it take for hormones to balance after breastfeeding?

The return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels can vary greatly, but generally hormones will normalize within three to six months. If you are breastfeeding, as you wean from it, your prolactin and oxytocin levels will drop—potentially leaving you feeling sad, anxious or irritable.

What does breastfeeding do to a woman’s hormones?

On top of that, breastfeeding mimics menopause due to the production of the milk-producing hormone, prolactin, temporarily blocking estrogen production, which keeps your estrogen levels low (1). Decreased estrogen levels impact vaginal tissue, temporarily decreasing elasticity, blood flow, and thinning of the tissue.

Does breastfeeding suppress your libido?

Breastfeeding can affect your sex drive
When you’re breastfeeding, your sex drive can take a double hit. This is thanks to falling oestrogen levels making you feel dryer than usual and lowered progesterone lowering your libido . All of which means your sex life may not be top of its game.

What are the negative effects of breastfeeding too long?

For example, duration of breastfeeding experience has been shown to correlate negatively with parent-reported antisocial and aggressive behavior in children from 4 to 11 years of age [43]. These effects on antisocial behavior appear to extend well beyond childhood into adulthood.

Why does my wife have no libido after pregnancy?

It’s normal for women to have a lower sex drive than they did prior to their pregnancy. Hormonal changes, lack of sleep, physical changes to their body and adjusting to the needs of a new baby all contribute to a reduction in libido. These issues may lead to postpartum depression as well.

How long does postpartum libido loss last?

Postpartum low libido can be experienced for months postpartum and even years. Scientifically, if you’re breastfeeding, oxytocin (referred to as the love hormone) and prolactin increase, which can replace a woman’s desire for sex.

How do I get my wife’s libido back?

Healthy lifestyle changes can make a big difference in your desire for sex:

1. Exercise.
2. Stress less.
3. Talk with your partner.
4. Set aside time for intimacy.
5. Add a little spice to your sex life.
6. Try vaginal lubricants and moisturizers.
7. Be aware of your habits.

What hormones drop after breastfeeding?

As milk production slows and eventually stops, prolactin and oxytocin levels decrease. While breastfeeding, these hormones promoted feelings of contentment, peace, and intimacy. As these hormone levels drop, some individuals experience complex physical and emotional symptoms including moodiness, sadness, or insomnia.