I just went off on instagram…

I have worked with pregnant and postpartum people for over a decade. In fact, it was in the Maternal Health field that I first discovered the vast disconnect many experience between their bodies and their sexuality.

I encountered countless people with vulvas who had never experienced an orgasm, never felt comfortable pursuing their partner, and always felt that their only purpose in sex was to offer themselves as a service.

When it came to Postpartum Depression (more accurately termed Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) I saw a common thread woven throughout many stories. An absence of #pleasure.

With the arrival of pregnancy and postpartum sex had become even more of a chore for female bodied people and one more item on their to do list of service to others. (The Madonna/Whore complex is another story for another day.)

What if I told you that pleasurable sexual encounters could be a part of your prescription for battling depression and anxiety?

While encounters that center female pleasure are few and far between, they are a recipe for healing.

Sex does not ever need to equal #penetration. Pregnancy and postpartum sex can be nurturing or affirming touch, a gentle make out session on the couch, or an intimate act of support.

People in female bodies are often conditioned by society to serve. I would love to challenge this narrative. I would love for sex in the postpartum period to equal rediscovery, curiosity, exploration, and rest.

May I clear up another misconception? Sex does not have to begin with desire. It can begin by allowing our body to be WILLING to experience pleasure.

HARD STOP, pain is never OK. If you are experiencing pain with any form of sexual intimacy, please reach out to me, your maternity care provider, or a pelvic floor physical therapist.

My loves, parenthood does not need to equal martyrdom. Pleasure can heal your body, thereby equipping you to be a better parent for your child.

If the ideas above sound wonderful, but impossible, I encourage you to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with me. I would be honored to work one-on-one with you to craft a personal pleasure practice that fits your life and your needs.