Sex Talk: I've completely lost interest in sex since giving birth. Please help

Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng answers your sex questions

Q. Ever since my pregnancy and giving birth to twins, I don't enjoy sex and don't even think about it. Even when we do have sex I try not to think about anything and be in the moment but I don't orgasm.

A. Loss of sexual desire is the most common form of sexual dysfunction among women of all ages; this is not only related to pregnancy or restricted to the period after childbirth.

More women report sexual problems than men, but research and treatment for women's sexual problems still lags behind.

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In many women, loss of interest is caused by a combination of physical and psychological factors and dealing with it usually requires more than one approach.

Breast-feeding can also cause loss of libido, as well as vaginal dryness, which can make sex uncomfortable and painful. Raising two babies may also physically take its toll on your body, mind and emotions.

There are many people who have post-partum depression and "baby blues" and this can affect your mood, energy and sex drive. Unless diagnosed and treated, the effects can be long lasting.

Some common medications, including certain treatments for depression and high blood pressure, can reduce the sex drive, as can the pill. It may be worthwhile to get guidance from your doctor regarding changing the dose or class of medication you are on.

I would recommend a thorough medical history and examination by a doctor, as well as sex therapy for yourself and possibly your partner. Sexual dysfunction usually affects both partners in a relationship and should be discussed openly to ensure that resentment does not build.

• Dr Tlaleng Mofokeng (MBChB), sexual and reproductive health practice, DISA Clinic, 011-886-2286, visit safersex.co.za.

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