The beauty of childbirth brings along several changes, such as hormonal fluctuations that can significantly impact the body. One crucial factor affected by childbirth’s hormonal changes is vaginal health. Estrogen has a significant role in maintaining the thickness and elasticity of the vaginal tissues. Let’s delve deep into how to support vaginal health post-childbirth by understanding the impact of estrogen and other practices.
How Estrogen Levels Change Postpartum
After delivery, there is a rapid drop in estrogen levels in the body. This decline becomes more pronounced while breastfeeding, leading to dryness, irritation, and discomfort in the vaginal area. Though this is a normal physiological change that occurs in the postpartum period, thinning and decreased elasticity of the vaginal tissues can lead to microtears causing painful urination, defecation, and also during sexual intercourse. Hence, a healthy level of estrogen is vital for maintaining proper vaginal health.
Treatment Options
Topical vaginal estrogen preparations, such as creams and suppositories, help provide localized estrogen without any systemic effects. However, oral estrogen is not recommended while breastfeeding. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you.
Additional Ways To Support Vaginal Health
There are several ways other than medical treatment that can support vaginal health. Keeping the body hydrated is one of the simplest but most effective ways to do so. Seeking pelvic physical therapy to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and incorporating perineal massage during the postpartum phase are few other essentials in promoting the healing of the perineum. Lastly, using lubricants during intercourse enhances comfort and reduces the likelihood of vaginal microtears.
Knowing When To Seek Help
While a drop in estrogen levels is a normal postpartum change, the symptoms associated with it should resolve within 6-12 months. However if you have these symptoms, consulting with your healthcare provider is crucial to determine if there are any underlying issues related to your vaginal health.
Take Home Message
Maintaining vaginal health after childbirth is crucial to recover well and lead a healthy lifestyle. The role of estrogen in this is undeniable, and there are several ways to support it. Along with medical treatment, keeping the body hydrated, pelvic physical therapy, perineal massages, and using lubricants during sex can aid in vaginal health. Always remember to consult with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or symptoms to determine the best treatment plan for you. Lastly, focus on restoring elasticity and moisture to promote optimal vaginal health and enhance postpartum healing.
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