Ep. 16 | Combating Painful Postpartum Sex with Molly Bachmann, PT, DPT
May 01, 2024Listen on:
Apple | Spotify | Other Platforms | Watch on YouTube
In this episode, Molly Bachmann, PT, DPT is back to talk about the often neglected issue of painful sex postpartum. This conversation between Allison and Molly discusses the biological, structural, hormonal, and sociocultural aspects that cause or contribute to painful sex postpartum, including pelvic floor stress, scar tissue, muscle tightness, nerve damage, exhaustion, relationship dynamics and a socially induced rush to resume sex.
01:57 Welcoming the Guest: Molly Bachman
02:18 Discussing Postpartum Struggles and Painful Sex
02:48 Understanding the Commonality of Painful Sex Postpartum
03:36 The Role of a Pelvic Floor Therapist in Postpartum Recovery
03:47 The Importance of Early Intervention in Pelvic Floor Issues
04:53 The Impact of Childbirth on the Pelvic Floor
05:38 The Importance of Postpartum Exercises for Pelvic Floor Recovery
05:57 Understanding the Impact of Birth on Pelvic Floor Muscles
10:57 The Role of Pelvic Floor Therapy in Postpartum Recovery
12:43 Understanding the Reasons for Painful Sex Postpartum
12:58 The Role of Hormones in Postpartum Sexual Health
18:34 The Impact of Scar Tissue on Postpartum Sexual Health
21:44 The Role of Muscle Tightness in Postpartum Sexual Health
23:58 Understanding the Impact of Nerve Damage on Postpartum Sexual Health
30:20 The Importance of Postpartum Support and Self-Care
32:33 The Importance of Addressing Painful Sex Postpartum
The postpartum experience is one often filled with A TON of emotions. In addition to navigating the responsibilities of motherhood, many women are silently dealing with uncomfortable and sometimes painful postpartum experiences. In this podcast, we are joined by Molly Bachmann, PT, DPT, a pelvic floor physical therapist and birth doula, who shares her insights on a particular postpartum issue – painful sex postpartum.
The Reality of Painful Postpartum Sex
Painful sex postpartum, as Molly emphasizes, is a surprisingly common condition. However, due to the stigma and embarrassment often attached to discussing such issues, many women suffer in silence. This lack of conversation leads many to believe that they're the only ones going through it.
Understanding Your Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor muscles play a vital role during childbirth, undergoing an immense amount of stress, similar to running two marathons (OK, MAKES SENSE NOW!? ANYONE ELSE??) Many women hope and expect that these muscles will bounce back quickly within the six weeks postpartum period, but that's not often the case. It's not realistic to expect such swift recovery from a muscle that has undergone so much stress.
The Four Main Causes of Postpartum Painful Sex
1. Hormonal Changes: Postpartum hormonal shifts, particularly the sharp drop in estrogen levels, can affect the vulva’s architecture, leading to painful sex. (And the longer you breastfeed, this will continue to occur due to the lower levels of estrogen).
2. Scar Tissue: The formation of scar tissue postpartum, particularly after a Grade 2, 3, or 4 tear, can contribute to pain during sex.
3. Muscle Tightness: All birth, irrespective of how it went, causes injury to the body which can lead to muscle tightening and subsequently, painful intercourse.
4. Nerve Damage: Sometimes, nerve disruption may occur, the most affected being the pudendal nerve, which could result in painful sex.
This image is from Bodily. Read this awesome article on Birth Recovery and Postpartum Recovery Timeline.
Practical Solutions to Postpartum Painful Sex
Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFT) has shown significant benefits for women experiencing painful postpartum sex (I can speak to this!!! 10/10 recommend PFT!). This therapy aims to loosen tight pelvic muscles, improve blood flow, and work on scar tissue, making intercourse more enjoyable. Due to the effectiveness and high success rate, even women who have been experiencing painful sex years postpartum can seek relief from pelvic floor physical therapy. As Molly expounds, "it's never too late."
Take-Home Advice
Women should feel empowered to advocate for their postpartum health. It's crucial to understand that typical postpartum clearance from a doctor doesn't necessarily mean that your pelvic floor is ready for sex. If you don't feel ready, don’t push yourself. Also, it's highly recommended to build your postpartum village – gather a support system that will help you transition into your new role without immense pressure. Remember, sex is supposed to be pleasurable and not a cause of pain or anxiety. However, if you're experiencing pain, know that it's not a normal part of the postpartum experience and you don't have to endure it. Reach out to professionals like Molly who dedicate their work to helping women regain control and enjoyment of their bodies after childbirth.
Resources:
Connect with Molly:
- Instagram: @pelvichealth and pelvichealth_ohio
- Check out Pelvic Health and Rehab Center and schedule a virtual consultation
Connect with Allison:
- Instagram: @allison_and_wellness
- Facebook: allisonandwellness
- Website: www.allisonandwellness.com
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WELCOME TO WHAT THE GUT
Are you a busy mom seeking balance and wellness? Join me on this journey towards vitality and holistic health. I understand the challenges of juggling endless tasks while striving for a healthier life.
In this podcast, we dive into the nitty-gritty of everyday struggles. From battling fatigue to navigating gut health, I'm here to offer holistic solutions. Say farewell to feeling overwhelmed and let's bring in that vibrant life you've been craving.
I'm Allison, a Holistic Health and Wellness Coach. I've been right where you are, facing the same hurdles. Through faith and functional medicine, I reclaimed my gut health, energy, and well-being. Now, I'm on a mission to help other moms break free from exhaustion and prioritize their health.
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