Reclaim Your Body, Reclaim Your Confidence: Non-Surgical Solutions for Physical Intimacy After Childbirth
Often overlooked, postpartum sexual health is crucial for new mothers. Childbirth can lead to vaginal dryness, decreased libido, discomfort during sex, or a general disconnect from their partner, impacting relationships and well-being. Luckily, effective non-surgical solutions exist to help women reclaim physical intimacy. This article explores these treatments.
How does childbirth affect sexual health?
A review conducted in 2019 revealed a notable decline in various aspects of sexual health postpartum, including dyspareunia, insufficient vaginal lubrication, difficulty achieving orgasm, vaginal irritation after intercourse, and decreased sexual desire.
In that review, the prevalence of sexual dysfunction was high, ranging from 41% to 83% at 2-3 months postpartum and approximately 64% at six months postpartum.
Several reasons are responsible for the above findings, and they include:
- Hormonal changes. Breastfeeding can reduce estrogen levels and this hormone is essential for natural vaginal lubrication. Reduced levels can cause dryness and vaginal irritation. However, some studies show that women who choose to breastfeed may experience greater comfort with their sexuality.
- Vaginal births can stretch the vaginal muscles, which need time to regain their strength. Recovery may take longer if there is a severe perineal tear, and resuming sex too soon can increase the risk of infection.
- Emotional and psychological factors, such as postpartum depression, stress, and changes in body image and self-esteem after pregnancy, can impact sexual confidence and desire.
Non-surgical treatments for sexual dysfunction
Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is a non-surgical, non-invasive approach to vaginal rejuvenation that uses laser energy to target and stimulate vaginal tissues. A handheld laser device is used to deliver controlled laser energy to the deeper layers of the vaginal tissue. This process stimulates collagen production and tissue regeneration and enhances blood flow, resulting in improved vaginal tone, elasticity, lubrication and sensation. Several sessions may be necessary to attain the desired outcomes.
Radiofrequency Treatments
A handheld device emits radio frequency energy to deliver controlled heat to the tissues. This energy penetrates deep layers of the vaginal tissue, promoting collagen formation, tissue tightening, and enhanced blood flow. This leads to improved vaginal tone, elasticity, sensitivity and moisture. Several sessions are typically needed to achieve optimal results.
Votiva treatment is a notable example of this. It includes two types of treatments: FormaV, a non-invasive internal treatment, and FractoraV, a minimally invasive external treatment targeting the labia majora.
O-Shot (Orgasm Shot)
The O-Shot, or Orgasm Shot, is a non-invasive treatment for vaginal rejuvenation involving the injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP). The procedure involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the PRP into specific areas of the vagina. The growth factors in the PRP stimulate collagen production and tissue regeneration, enhancing overall vaginal health and sexual pleasure.
Kegel Exercises
Kegel exercises are a natural and cost-effective method for vaginal rejuvenation that women can perform anywhere on their own. These exercises involve repeatedly contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, which supports improved muscle tone and strength, leading to increased vaginal tightness.
The effectiveness of Kegel exercises can be further enhanced by incorporating vaginal cones and biofeedback mechanisms.
Benefits of non-surgical treatments
- Minimally Invasive & Painless: Non-surgical treatments are minimally invasive, causing little to no pain.
- Quick & Safe Procedure: Non-surgical treatments are generally quick and safe, with reduced risk compared to surgical options.
- Restored Structure & Functionality: These treatments can restore vaginal structure and improve functionality. For example, Kegels has been long proven to improve stress incontinence.
- Improved Sexual Function: Many women leave positive reviews after having used the above non-surgical methods to enhance sexual function.
Cost of nonsurgical treatments
The cost of non-surgical treatments varies widely. Laser therapy and radiofrequency treatments cost about $500 to $2,500 per session, while the O-Shot generally costs between $1,200 and $1,500 per injection.
Since most of these treatments for vaginal health are usually considered elective, they are not typically covered by insurance.
Final notes
Improving sexual health after childbirth is a journey that involves understanding your body and exploring your options. Whether you opt for home-based exercises like Kegels or other non-surgical treatments, the goal is to enhance your well-being and intimacy.
Always consult a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your unique situation.
About the Author
Ferdinand Obi (MBBS, MWACS, FMCOG, MPH)
Bridging medicine and words.