Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
7 Things That Can Happen to You When You Stop Having Sex
If you and your partner are going through a dry spell with regard to the activities of the bedroom, or if you’re not as intimate with your partner as you used to be before the arrival of your baby, then trust us, you are not alone. Every couple goes through a sexual drought occasionally, and due to all sorts of reasons. It could be because of work pressure, pains and complications after childbirth, running after the baby all day long, tiredness, health issues, or simply because of a lack of interest. While a break from your sexual life won’t affect your overall health or intimacy levels in the long run, it can lead to certain changes in your physical and emotional health.
7 Things That May Happen to You When You Stop Having Sex
If your break from sexual intercourse (whether after childbirth or in general) has stretched for longer than you’d have imagined, you may have noticed certain changes in your body already. When you’re being puked or peed on daily and hardly have the time to shower, sex might be the last thing on your mind. The thought of the pain that postpartum sex brings won’t make it easier either. However, delaying having sex for too long can have some of the following effects on your body.
1. Your Vaginal Walls May Weaken
It’s a common belief that a woman’s vagina becomes tighter if she abstains from sexual intercourse for a while, but that’s not true; at least, not entirely. A lack of sexual activity can weaken the vaginal walls. When you have sex regularly (and by regularly, we mean once a week or even fortnightly), the blood flow to your genitals will be normal, and your vaginal muscles, toned and elastic. But if you have taken a break from sex, you can expect the opposite effect on your vagina. Women entering the menopause phase may also experience this problem. A lack of intercourse when they get older can thin out their vaginal walls, and they may experience pain while having sex.
2. Your Libido Might Drop
It is believed that having infrequent sex affects the libido i.e., a person’s sexual drive. If you and your partner are not getting cosy under the sheets and are abstaining from foreplay too, you can expect a drop in your sex drive. A bout of celibacy is expected in the postpartum period; if you are breastfeeding your baby, your oestrogen levels will remain low, which might lead to vaginal dryness and create a ‘pins and needles’ sensation while you have sex. This can be a turn-off for you. You may also not be aroused by anything that turned you on instantly earlier. But the more you and your partner keep your hands off each other, the steeper the drop will be of your libido! However, this is not true for everyone. Sometimes, a lack of sexual activity can make a person desire it more and increase their libido.
3. You May Feel Stressed
For many couples, sex acts as a stress-buster. If that’s the case with you and your partner, you may feel down in the dumps if you’ve paused sexual activity after childbirth. Pregnancy and childbirth can lead to plenty of changes in your body which you may be super conscious about, even if your husband accepts them. At times, you may doubt his words and show no interest in sex. But the more you put it off, the less connected you will feel with him. This, in turn, will then play out in your communication with him i.e., you may find it difficult to convey your feelings to your husband. This could also elevate your stress levels and affect your mood. But having sex can solve the problem - it can effectively manage your stress levels and help you sleep better. This is because during sexual activity, your body releases hormones like endorphins and oxytocin, which help you manage the effects of stress. Plus, the release of these happy hormones can uplift your mood and enable you to sleep better.
4. Your Immune Function May Be Affected
The release of the hormone oxytocin during sex can get you in the mood, making you feel happy and satisfied. And when you feel good about yourself and are not stressed, your immune system will function better. Regular sexual activity can help your body fight illnesses, but a lack of it can make you susceptible to catching colds or other infections. Couples who engage in lovemaking often have higher levels of immunoglobulin A, an essential antibody in the immune system that helps fights sickness. However, sex alone won’t keep your immune system happy; you also need to eat right, lead a healthy and active lifestyle, and get enough sleep.
5. Your Vagina May Have a Hard Time Lubricating
Another thing you’ll notice if it’s been a while since you got jiggy under the sheets is that your vagina may struggle to lubricate itself. And you can blame the hormone oestrogen for that! The release of this hormone ensures that your vagina stays healthy, elastic, and lubricated. However, in the postpartum period, oestrogen levels drop; and if you are breastfeeding, your oestrogen levels will remain low, which may lead to vaginal dryness. Low oestrogen levels can even thin out your vaginal tissues, thereby making sex painful for you. But the lack of sex won’t improve your condition. While the first few times might be a bit painful, once you get back in the game, your vagina will be able to self-lubricate properly again, reducing the pain factor. Remember, regularity is the key here!
6. You May Feel Unsatisfied With Your Relationship
For some couples, physical intimacy is the key to a healthy relationship. It’s the glue that holds them together and helps them bond better. Couples who have sex often, even once a week, tend to be happier than those who don’t indulge in it more often. If having regular sex helps you communicate better with your partner and connect with him emotionally, you might feel disconnected from him when there is a lack of sex. After the birth of your child, you may face communication problems with your partner. But if you don’t address the problem, chances are you will feel unwanted, which can lower your confidence levels as well.
7. You May Lower Your Chances of Contracting UTIs
As it happens, abstinence does come with a silver lining, albeit a slightly thin one given the other effects it has on your body. It is a known fact that when you abstain from sexual activity with your partner, your chances of contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) will go down. At the same time, your chances of contracting urinary tract infections (UTIs) also lower. Urinary tract infections are usually caused by the transfer of bacteria to the urinary tract while having sex. But if it’s all dry below the belt, you won’t have to worry about these infections.
How to Get Your Sex Life Back on Track
Keep these tips in mind to spark things up a bit and to finally escape that sexual drought!
Indulge in self-care before you decide to get back in action. We know playing mommy leaves you no time for yourself, but make time for your good health. Take a hot shower while your baby is asleep. Take enough rest and do something that makes you happy. Also, a hot shower before going to bed can be very relaxing and you never know, it might just set the mood.
If you are nervous about the pain of having sex for the first time after you’ve given birth, you can start off by exploring your vagina gently with your fingers and identifying the pleasure and pain points before having sex. Also, communicate with your partner about what you’d like and what you want to avoid.
Don’t forget to engage in foreplay. Foreplay can arouse you and make the experience better. Also, depend on lubricants to get past the issue of vaginal dryness.
Be patient - things might not pan out all too well when you get back in action after a break. Try out different things that work for you and make sure you go slow and steady. For all you know, you might actually discover something new you like!
There is one good thing that comes from abstinence, but there are a lot of unpleasant effects too. Not having sex with your partner for a while can affect your physical and emotional health. So make it a point to spend some quality time with your partner and warm up before you get back in action. Plan a romantic dinner, light the candles, and set the mood to open the doorway to your bedroom and good health! Read more
Suggested for you
10 Creative Ways to Recycle a Saree
Recycling sarees is the new rage. It allows you to whip up creative and imaginative ways to reuse your or mom’s old sarees. The fabric and design can be recycled into some truly wow clothing and accessories. All you need is creativity and patience to get started!
A little twist to your old sari and your look can transform to quirky and cool in no time. The trick to remember when you're wondering how to reuse old sarees is to choose designs that can be easily upgraded to make a bold fashion statement.
Mastering the Art of Old Saree Recycling
There are many uses of old sarees that can help you not just save and keep your favourite sarees, but also turn them into useful utility items! Here are some such DIY saree ideas.
1. From Saree to Scarf
If you rummage through your mom’s collection of sarees, you might unearth some gems. Sarees in simple yet elegant prints will make for great scarves. If you come across old sarees in bright colours and bold patterns, cut them into square shapes to create modern scarves. Make sure you cut in wide strips and give it a lace edging to finish.
2. Get a Jhola Bag
Reusing of old sarees can get you a cool but functional handbag. Use a cotton saree with bold colours and prints for the body of the bag. Place sheets of the fabric together and stitch up the sides. Add a long strap that sits comfortably over the shoulder. If you know how to work a sewing machine, you can also add pockets and a zipper to the bag. This bag will not only be distinctive but also help you stash a lot of essential items.
3. Recycling Sarees for Your Tech Gadgets
Forget spending money on expensive sleeves for your tablets or laptops. Pick a silk saree for a luxe effect and cut out a wide patch of the material. Make srue it is at least twice as long as the size of your gadget. Give it a fold and stitch the sides neatly. You can add a few colourful buttons or drawstring fastening at the end to ensure security. Easy as that!
4. Pretty Curtains for Your Home
How about turning old sarees into cute curtains for your home? The lighter the saree, the better curtains they make as they allow breeze and sunlight to come in through the window. Select a saree with interesting prints and colours that complement your room decor. If your saree is heavy, use it to make winter curtains to keep your home warm.
5. Make Hair Clips
Guess what, you can recycle old sarees to make your hair clips quirkier! Unbelievable as this sounds, all you need to do is cut out three circles from a synthetic silk sari, each smaller than the other. Then cut small separating slits that point towards the centre of each circle. For a flower petal look, crimp the circles by placing them 2 inches away over a candle. Finally, layer the pieces of fabric together and thread a hair pin or wire through the centre of your masterpiece.
6. Ethnic Cushion Covers to Beautify Your Living Room
Your living room is the first reflection of how the rest of your house is going to look like. If you are thinking of revamping your living room, a great idea would be to start with changing the cushion covers, and once again, your old saree will come to the rescue. Since they have a good length, one saree can be used to make quite a few cushion covers. Use sarees with borders, embroidery and ethnic work to make the covers look elegant and pretty.
7. Create Quirky Quilts
Well, this one will require some hard work and serious efforts, but in the end it's all worth it! Make use of your cotton and brocade sarees to turn them into patchwork quilts. Trust us, you will thank yourself in the winters for this! These quilts can also be used as a great gifting option.
8. Add Some Creativity to Your Bedroom with Bed Canopies
If you are bored of how your bedroom looks, then you could definitely do with adding some colour to it. Bed canopies are in vogue and if you want to add a bit of indo-modern look, make them using your old sarees. The length is perfect and not only do they beautify but also add a romantic and luxurious feel to the decor.
9. Hang Some Wall Hangings on That White Wall
If you have an empty wall in the house and you've been wondering what to do with it, you could decorate it instead of spending a ton to get it painted. Simply take out a fancy saree that you no longer use, pin in tightly on a plain canvas and hang it. Voila! You have your very own boho wall hanging masterpiece!
10. Create Some Table Clothes
Another great and fairly simple use of your old saree is to make pretty table covers out of them. Be it a kitty party or a family get together, your table must look pretty. Just cut an old embroidered saree and spread it over the dinner table and be prepared to be showered with compliments.
These craft ideas on 'how to reuse old sarees' can get your creativity flowing, besides helping you make functional accessories. All you need is a little time, a lot of patience, and a wardrobe to raid. Get started already we say! Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 9 months
2 hours ago
Q. i missed my periods on 5 but when I checked in the morning urine that is not showing positive but when I check now I can see faint line ... why this is happening
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. please wait they can be simple delayed period. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Suggested for you
Suggested for you
Go South for the Winter! Top Family Destinations in Andaman
Winter is one of the best times to visit Andaman and Nicobar Island. It’s where sunny skies meet clear blue waters and an endearing weather, which promises to keeps you outdoors, ensuring you make the most of your holiday.
There are plenty good reasons to travel to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands at any given time of the year. It’s a paradise for lovers, a haven for divers and a peaceful island retreat for the entire family. And it sure beats having to brave freezing temperatures during a cold winter holiday to the hills. If the lure of the island beckons you, here’s a list of things to do and see on your visit.
Top Tourist Places in Andaman that Call for a Family Visit
Ancient museums in Port Blair
A trip to the museums in the capital is a terrific way to absorb some of the history of the island. Initially built for the purpose of spreading awareness of the conservation of marine life, the museums here houses large tanks containing natural coral reefs and a variety of unique species of marine flora and fauna. Make sure you visit the Marina Park and Museum for its miniature models of the different islands. Tell your kids about the daily lifestyle of the indigenous tribes who originally inhabited these islands.
Mysterious Island Caves in Baratang Island
The Andaman and Nicobar islands are known for their large expanse of mangrove forests and the best season to visit Andaman Islands is winter time when you can experience the mangroves in its entirety. A boat ride will take you on an enjoyable journey through a thick canopy of these mangroves plantations. Catch sightings of some exotic species of birds as you make your way through this nature-made tunnel of mangroves. Up ahead are the famous Mangrove Creek and Limestone Caves that are an incredible sight to behold if only for their remarkable formation of stalactites and stalagmites.
Water Sports Destinations
Filled with hordes of water sports for kids and adults of all ages, the fun never ends here. You can try parasailing, jet skiing, rowboat paddling, speed boat rides and a host of other water-filled activities; the family is sure to have a thrilling time! Try out the Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, Port Blair for its well-equipped changing rooms and trained staff to ensure everyone’s safety.
Beautiful, Tranquil Beaches
The beaches along the western coast of the Havelock Islands are the most tranquil you will ever find in the Andamans. The lack of any wave action makes its clear crystal waters perfect for a huge number of water-filled activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, boating and even fishing. Elephant rides on this beach are also popular among visitors. Walk along the beack with your husband and reignite your romance. Add Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Islands to your itinerary.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are brimming with life and energy, making any visitor fall in love with them at first sight! Winter is the peak time to visit Andaman and Nicobar Island, so go on and have the time of your life! Read more
Suggested for you
Mini Burgers
Make all your kiddie parties a hit with our recipe of mini burgers. Burgers are always a hit amongst kids and these mini burgers will be especially attractive to kids, thanks to the cuteness! Add veggies and these burgers will be a parents' favourite too!
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
10-15 Minutes
NA
Ingredients
For the patty
600 g minced chicken
1 tbsp ginger garlic paste
Salt to taste
1 cup shredded vegetables of your choice
1/2 cup finely chopped onions
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
3/4 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup maida dissolved in 3/4 cup water
2 eggs
1 tsp pepper
1 pack chicken masala
1 tbsp maida
Oil to deep fry
For the burger
Mini buns
Mayonnaise
Tomato Sauce
Celery
Method
For the patty
Step 1
Pressure cook or boil chicken with salt, turmeric powder and chilli powder.
Step 2
Drain the water and shred the chicken finely or grind it in a blender without water.
Step 3
In a bowl, mix the chicken, chicken masala, pepper, salt, shredded vegetables (or finely chopped), onion, tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste and maida well. This should be thick and dry but should also hold well together.
Step 4
Make balls out of this mixture and pat into a flat round patty.
Step 5
Now beat the eggs in a bowl. In another bowl keep the bread crumbs ready and in another bowl keep the maida dissolved in water.
Step 6
Heat oil in a pan for frying the patties and keep ready.
Step 7
Now, pick a patty, dip it in the eggs, followed by maida and then the bread crumbs.
Step 8
Drop it into the oil and fry till the patty becomes a dark golden brown.
For burger
Step 9
Place the patty in between the buns and spread the mayonnaise.
Step 10
Place a slice of tomato, cucumber, onion or veggies of your choice.
Step 11
Poke a toothpick through the burger to hold it in place and serve.
Nutritional Information
Calories
637 K cal
Proteins
16.8 g
Fats
20.9 g
Carbohydrates
109.2 g
Cholesterol
140 mg
Sodium
693 mg
Potassium
507 mg
Tip: *For frying, add approximately 10 grams of fat per serving at 9 Kcal/gm of fat. Read more
Suggested for you
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
10 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts plz suggest me medicine for toothache
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
9 hours ago
A. A proper assessment is required here so regarding this it is vmore favourable to contact your local doctor and accordingly he will guide in a proper manner.
If any more queries you can tgake online consultation on the platform for a detailed discussion .
shilpi Bhandari has added a new answer
Mom of a 3 yr 5 m old child
9 hours ago
Q. 3.5 saal ki bacchi ko vomitab syrap kitni or kab den khane se phle ya khane ke bad??
shilpi Bhandari
Mom of 2 children
6 hours ago
A. hello dear u can give it before but if child is vomiting regularly then don't keep on giving medication like this u need to know the reason it might be infection so please consult with the doctor for that
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 9 months
5 hours ago
Q. i missed my periods 3 days ago today I checked then this result come. but when I checked yesterday afternoon the result is the second attachment . why this is happening I am confused 😕
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. you had to wait few days this can be delayed periods. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 9 months
5 hours ago
Q. i missed my periods on 5 my result is attached but when I checked in the yesterday afternoon it was little bit dark why this is happening and what to do
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. at present it is negative please wait few more days. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. Hi, I am 35 weeks pregnant, and have AFI-24.3 and 2cm cervix length. What should I do to reduce AFI?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. AFI little bit more needs intervention medically. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Check out this new Memory
Chetna
Mom of a 3 yr 11 m old girl
New Memory
#stylishbaby
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Mahesh
Father of a 3 m old girl
1 min ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Sahil Gupta
Father of a 3 m old boy
1 min ago
#stylishbaby
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Navya Madan
Guardian of a 3 m old girl
1 min ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Mahesh
Father of a 3 m old girl
3 mins ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive