How Soon Can You Have Sex After Birth?
You can resume your sex life between 4 and 6 weeks after delivery. In fact, depending on your speed of recovery, you can get back as soon as bleeding stops and your stitches have healed. Some of the factors that may hold you back include:
- State of mind – It takes time to get back in the mood for sex. In fact most women develop a low sex drive for several months after delivery. Some of the factors that cause this include the following:
- Self-esteem – Many women fear that their partners may dislike their new body. It may also take a long time before you appreciate your new look. By focusing on quality rather than quantity, you may begin having confidence about your new status.
- Vaginal dryness– After giving birth, there are usually dramatic changes in your hormones. The reduction of these hormones may lead to vaginal dryness, making sex extremely uncomfortable. Your hormones will soon regulate, but until then, consider incorporating lubes such as K-Y jelly to enhance comfort during sex.
Taking Your Time Before Resuming
You may not be ready for sex even when your partner is. It’s essential to consider what your body passes through.
If you’ve suffered a tear or delivered through caesarean section, you may resume after a longer time. It’s important then that you allow your body time to heal. However, you may maintain intimacy with your partner through acts such as:
- Cuddling
- Touching
- Kissing
- Massaging
- Other forms of sex that do not involve penetration
Speaking out To Your Partner
Having an open conversation with your partner can be helpful. You need to talk with your partner without creating the notion of rejecting him. If he gets uncertain about your sex response, you may need to share your concerns.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
If you experience postpartum depression, consider talking to your medical practitioner. Sex may also be uncomfortable, even intrusive at times but it might help you and your partner get back on track.
Remember that having sex after your delivery is ultimately up to you.
Disclaimers:
Please note that development differs from one child to another.
Content intended for educational purposes only, and not a substitute for medical advice from your doctor.
Be careful when using any products mentioned on this website. We hold no regulations for such products or their providers.
Last reviewed March 2019
Sources: raisingchildren, whattoexpect
