S2 E7: Navigating the Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation with Dr. Sinead Dufour

Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation: The Postpartum Symptom Nobody Talks About

Episode Summary Many postpartum parents expect sleep deprivation and feeding challenges, but far fewer are warned about vaginal dryness, irritation, urinary symptoms, or discomfort with intimacy while breastfeeding. These symptoms are increasingly being described as Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation (GSL), a condition linked to the hormonal shifts that occur during lactation.

In this episode, Pamela sits down with pelvic health physiotherapist Professor Sinead Dufour to explore what’s happening in the body during the postpartum period and why so many breastfeeding parents experience changes in their pelvic and vaginal health.

Together, they discuss how the hormonal environment of lactation (particularly lower estrogen levels) can affect vaginal tissue, lubrication, and urinary comfort. They also talk about how these symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed, leaving many parents feeling confused or unsupported.

This conversation normalizes an experience that is far more common than most people realize and offers practical, evidence-informed guidance for parents navigating postpartum recovery while breastfeeding.

In This Episode

• What Genitourinary Syndrome of Lactation is and why the term is gaining attention

• Why breastfeeding hormones can affect vaginal and urinary tissues

• Common symptoms, including dryness, irritation, pain with sex, and urinary discomfort

• How these symptoms are sometimes misdiagnosed or overlooked

• The difference between normal postpartum healing and symptoms that need support

• Practical strategies that may improve comfort during the breastfeeding period

• The role of pelvic floor physiotherapy in postpartum recovery

• When it may be helpful to speak with a healthcare provider

• Why pelvic health conversations need to be part of routine postpartum care

About the Guest

Sinead Dufour is an Associate Clinical Professor, Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University, and a pelvic health physiotherapist who supports individuals through pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and other pelvic health concerns. Her work focuses on helping people better understand their bodies while providing practical tools for healing, comfort, and long-term pelvic health.

Connect & Learn More:

Dr. Sinead Dufour, PhD:

Website: https://experts.mcmaster.ca/people/sdufour

Instagram: @dr.sinead

Embodia: https://embodiaapp.com

Pamela Tessmann, IBCLC:

Website: www.brimfamilycare.com

Socials: @brim.familycare

Buy me a Coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/brim.familycare