Delivery precipitates a drastic drop in estrogen, which can cause changes that are very similar to The Change. One common effect that many women experience (much to their surprise and chagrin) is that the tissue of the vagina becomes very thin, taut and dry. This can make sex painful even when lubrication is used. The issue often persists until breast-feeding stops, so be patient with yourself and take sex slowly after you give birth if it’s uncomfortable.

READ MORE: What They Don’t Tell You About Sex After Pregnancy