Topics in My Partner
The birth or adoption of a baby is a major life change. This will affect your relationships. From emotional connection, communication, physical touch, and partnership dynamics – a lot may shift. Whether you’re feeling closer than ever to your partner or worlds apart, communication is at the heart of understanding.
Priorities may have changed in the postpartum period, and that is okay. It’s no myth that parents are tired, and any flexible time may be spent on sleep or otherwise taking care of themselves (however that looks for them).
Have you heard the phrase, “touched out?” It is real for many. After being held, suckled, squeezed, pinched, scratched, and snuggled so much, it’s no wonder a mother may want some space. Finding ways to show love may need to be focused on well-being and happiness until the needs of the baby and the mom become less intense. As for sex, here are some thoughts that may be helpful.
Are you feeling like your partner hasn’t really looked at you since the baby was born? It is not uncommon for the connection you have with your partner to feel different in the weeks and months after baby. That can feel strange. A good start is just asking about how the person is feeling, and taking the time to really listen to each other and thoughtfully express your feelings.
Becoming a parent is life-changing. For mothers, there are immediate and ongoing physical, emotional, and social changes. This phase of life has been called matrescence. The entire family is learning, exploring, and adjusting.
Open, direct, and well-timed conversations permit for understanding of postpartum experiences and each other. Your effort in thoughtful communication can have the power to impact the vibe and next steps for your new family. We’ve created a Postpartum Care Plan as a tool for support systems to unite and be supportive of new mothers, in the ways they need and want the most.
Resources to Explore:
