New parents often expect potential challenges when it comes to breastfeeding, but many may not realize they could include issues for the mother, like vaginal dryness. Fortunately, help is available.
At Avery Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, our expert board-certified physicians provide personalized care for women throughout their pregnancies, the postpartum period, and all stages of their lives.
With cutting-edge technology and offices conveniently located in Westport, Fairfield, and Norwalk, Connecticut, getting the care you need has never been easier or more accessible.
Breastfeeding is the best type of nutrition for most babies. With this in mind, exclusively nursing for the baby's first six months is recommended. This form of feeding offers several health benefits for both the infant and mother.
Breastfed babies have a decreased risk of illnesses like ear and gastrointestinal infections, as well as more serious health problems like asthma, type 1 diabetes, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and obesity.
Mothers who breastfeed experience reduced odds of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and breast and ovarian cancer. However, nursing can also come with temporary challenges.
A woman's body undergoes many changes through pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period. Hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, play a role in this process.
Levels are high during pregnancy, then drop to pre-pregnancy amounts within 24 hours after the baby is born. When breastfeeding, estrogen decreases to protect milk production.
Vaginal dryness is a common problem, with more than 4 in 10 women experiencing it six months after giving birth.
Estrogen increases blood flow to the genitals and vaginal lubrication. When the amount of this hormone decreases, women may experience more dryness and find their tissue is thinner, less elastic, and at a heightened risk of injury, which can make sex uncomfortable or painful.
For women who suffer from vaginal dryness while breastfeeding, here are several steps to take that can help improve this issue:
Use a lubrication product to reduce friction and increase comfort.
Make sure to drink plenty of water to reduce the chance of dehydration.
Exercising the pelvic floor muscles can help strengthen them and improve blood flow to the area.
Be honest with your partner about your feelings and experiences. This step can help improve support and understanding.
If the problem is significant or doesn't improve, consult a doctor to rule out an infection or other issue. They can also suggest appropriate treatments.
While not an immediate fix, as the baby nurses less frequently, dryness issues decrease.
Whether you're pregnant or have already had a baby and are experiencing an issue like vaginal dryness, we can help.
Book an appointment online or call the Westport office at 203-227-5125, the Fairfield office at 203-335-9633, or the Norwalk office at 203-840-1507 today.
