Low Estrogen Postpartum: What No One Tells You After Birth

 

Whether you're newly postpartum or months into motherhood, your body is still adjusting — and one thing many of our pelvic floor patients don’t hear enough about is postpartum low estrogen. At My PT 2 Go, we believe understanding your body is the first step toward healing it.

🩺 What Is Postpartum Low Estrogen?

After you give birth — especially if you’re breastfeeding — your estrogen levels drop. This is totally normal but can cause some unexpected symptoms, especially in your pelvic health.

Estrogen supports the vaginal tissues, urethra, and pelvic floor. When levels are low, those tissues can become thin, dry, less elastic, and more sensitive, making recovery and daily activities (like exercise, intimacy, and even going to the bathroom) uncomfortable.

🔄 Low estrogen isn't only postpartum — it can also show up during perimenopause, menopause, or even in younger women using hormonal birth control that suppresses estrogen production. If you’re noticing changes and not sure why, it’s worth exploring your hormone levels with a trusted provider.

🔍 Common Signs We See in the Clinic:

  • Vaginal dryness or burning

  • Pain with intercourse

  • Urinary urgency or leakage

  • Feelings of pelvic heaviness

  • Slower healing of vaginal or perineal tears

  • Increased pelvic floor tension or discomfort

  • Labial resorption (shrinking or disappearance of the labia minora)

🧠 This can feel surprising or even alarming, but it’s often a result of decreased estrogen — and you're not alone. We're here to help you understand what’s happening and what you can do about it.

💡 How Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Help

At My PT 2 Go, we specialize in treating postpartum patients holistically. When estrogen is low, we:

  • Use gentle manual therapy to improve tissue mobility

  • Guide you through custom exercises that support healing, not strain

  • Recommend lubricants or vaginal moisturizers that are safe and effective

  • Collaborate with your OB-GYN or midwife if topical estrogen may be helpful

👉 Pro Tip: If you're breastfeeding and dealing with persistent dryness or pain, ask your provider about localized vaginal estrogen. It's often safe and has less side effects than oral estrogen pills. It can make a huge difference in your comfort — especially during PT and intimacy.

🧘‍♀️ Your Body, Your Timeline

Every postpartum journey is different. Whether you’re 6 weeks or 6 months out, it’s never “too late” to address discomfort. Pelvic health is a lifelong investment — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Reach out today! (858) 224-2242

 
 
 
April DouglasComment