Sexual Activities after giving birth
When can I resume sex after giving birth?
Giving birth is an incredible experience. The healing time will depend on many factors that are all different from one person to the other.
- Listen to your body and be gentle.
- Take the time you need to heal and to adjust to life with your new baby.
There are no specific guidelines on when you can resume having sex.
- If you had a vaginal delivery without any complications, it is usually recommended that you wait four to six weeks
- If you have had a tear, an episiotomy (a cut), a C-section or other complications, waiting (six weeks is) also (recommended). It will give time for the physical scars to heal
However, keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, not an obligation!
Resume sexual activities when you feel you are ready physically, mentally and emotionally.
8 tips for a healthy sex life after pregnancy
- Take it slow, at your own pace
- You can first re-explore your body by touching yourself and explore new sensations that may come after childbirth.
- Talk to your partner and express what feels good and what doesn’t
- Remember that intimacy with your partner does not need to include a penetration
- Increase foreplay and intimate activities (example: massages, cuddles, kisses)
- Use lubricant: prioritize water-based ones
A lubricant is a gel or liquid applied when you are having sex to reduce friction. A moisturizer can help to increase moisture and elasticity
-
If you have had a C-section, check the info below.
In the first few weeks after a C-section, it is normal and common that you experience some considerable pain around your abdomen in your scar area.
-
If you have had a tear or an episiotomy, check the info below.
An episiotomy is a minor surgery that widens the opening of the vagina during childbirth.
- Regularly practice Kegel exercises. It’s “going to the gym” for your pelvic floor. It will help regain strength, sensation, and help with the healing of your vagina
Many people are told to do Kegel exercises to help them with urinary leakage or after giving birth.
Breastfeeding?
You can become pregnant, even if you are breastfeeding.
Talk to your healthcare provider about the risk of pregnancy after birth to find the best birth control for you.
Also, while breastfeeding you may experience vaginal dryness and you might feel more friction during sexual intercourses that involves penetration. This is due to the hormonal change that occurs with breastfeeding. You can use lubricant during intercourse to help. Vaginal moisturizing cream can also help (example of brands that have those type of moisturizer : Gynatrof Natural Vaginal Moisturizer ).
Pain with sex?
Pain with sex after delivery (or at anytime during your life) can be due to a number of reasons such as:
- Perineal tear, episiotomy or a C-section
- Post partum blues or depression may decrease your sex drive as well as fatigue and hormonal levels
- History of sexual trauma
- Traumatic childbirth experience
- Vaginal organ prolapse
Let your healthcare provider know about pain or difficulties.
- There are solutions, you are not alone and we are here to support.
- You can ask your doctor or nurse to be seen by a physiotherapist who has advanced training in pelvic health problems. There might be one in your community.
Or you can contact the pelvic health team.
