Masturbation After Childbirth

Romper explores how and when post-partum masturbation is safe, consulting experts on what to consider. Read the full article here or see my contributions to the piece below:

Masturbation can boost blood flow to your vaginal area in an effort to help mend some of the damage you might have experienced during birth. Indigo Stray Conger, LMFT, CST, a certified sex therapist in Colorado explains: “Masturbation brings blood flow to an area that could benefit from circulation in order to heal more rapidly.”

How you masturbate is going to dictate what’s safe and what’s not. “In general, it is best to avoid masturbating with anything other than your hand,” says Conger. “Using toys, water or any other stimulator runs the risk of not fully feeling the area you are palpating. Your hands have a high concentration of nerve endings and can give you as much sensory feedback as your vulva about how far to go. Be cautious of vigorous thrusting or deep penetration. Go slow and take the time to be curious about what your body needs to feel pleasure in this postnatal state.”