Intercourse after childbirth
Due to various changes in a woman’s body after childbirth, such as pain, genital dryness, bleeding, and bruising, various physical problems, and being busy with childcare, many couples are not able to decide the right time to re-establish intimacy with their partner. So, if you have just had a baby, here are a few things you should know about intercourse after childbirth that we will discuss today.
How long after childbirth do you start having intercourse?
There are no rules about when to have intercourse after giving birth. However, doctors usually recommend abstaining from intercourse for up to 6 weeks after delivery because it takes about six weeks for the vagina to return to normal and for the uterus to close after delivery. Intercourse within a few weeks of childbirth can cause uterine infection or bleeding.
Also, after childbirth, a woman suffers from problems such as vaginal bleeding, perineal tear, or episiotomy, which takes about a month to heal and return to normal. They face common problems like vaginal dryness, pain, bleeding, loss of sexual energy, loss of vaginal elasticity, bruises, and many more due to low estrogen levels and breastfeeding after pregnancy.
Intercourse after cesarean
Women who have a cesarean section in childbirth find it quite difficult to return to their sex life. After a normal delivery, all parts of the body usually return to normal within 4 to 6 weeks. But, in the case of a cesarean section, a woman takes longer to get rid of surgical pain and other difficulties due to large operations.
Problems you might face post-delivery
1. Dryness of the vagina or genitals
After delivery, your genitals or vagina may feel quite dry due to hormonal fluctuations. You may have pain during intercourse due to dryness of the vagina or genitals. This is especially true for mothers who breastfeed their babies because women’s estrogen levels are low. Estrogen is the hormone that releases the natural lubricant in the vagina.
2. Thinning of the vaginal skin
Your vaginal skin can become thinner as a result of a cesarean section and due to hormonal reasons. This can cause your vagina to tear during intercourse.
3. Decreased elasticity of the muscles of the vagina
If you have a typical vaginal birth, the vaginal muscles will be stretched significantly. These muscles’ suppleness weakens. This can provide pain during intercourse.
4. Weakness and decreased sexual desire
Many moms do not get enough sleep or relax after giving birth since they are caring for a baby. This might cause you to feel weak from weariness and lower your sexual drive.
5. Pain from cuts due to episiotomy and cesarean section
If you have had an episiotomy or cesarean section, you may be afraid to have intercourse because of the pain in the wound. If you have a normal delivery, you may have injuries to your genitals and vagina. It can also affect your relationship.
6. Postpartum depression
After having delivery, your body undergoes several changes. Immediately after delivery, the body does not fully return to the way it was before pregnancy. Even if it comes back, it will take time. Many mothers feel that their partner may no longer be attracted to them. As a result, many suffer from postpartum depression. It can also affect your relationship.
The method of birth control
When having intercourse after delivery, you should think about the birth control method. You might become pregnant again after having delivery. In this case, if the interval between the two children is less than 18 months or more than 59 months, you may have various problems related to pregnancy. Therefore, according to experts, once delivered, one should wait at least 18 months before conceiving again. Therefore, take at least 18 months between two children and use any birth control method every time you have intercourse after childbirth.
Healthy tips for intercourse after childbirth
With mutual understanding and a few simple ways, you can make intercourse enjoyable for you and your partner after delivery. To do this, apply the following suggestions:
1. Slow down
As soon as the baby is born, your body does not become the same again. So take your time. Spend time together before intercourse. Touch each other. Allow your own body to create a natural lubricant before using anything artificial.
2. Use lubricants
Within a few days following birth, your hormone levels should have returned to normal. But lubricants can help a little. Avoid oil-based lubricants since they might irritate the delicate region of the genitals. You can use water-based lubricants.
3. Make time for yourself
You may be unable to find time for oneself while caring for your child. Take out time for yourself. For example, give yourself time when the child falls asleep or starts sleeping.
4. Talk to your partner
If you have any problem with intercourse, first talk to your partner openly. Express your feelings and emotions. Also, make sure you don’t feel any pain.
5. Exercise on the pelvic floor
Exercise on the pelvic floor helps to restore the tone and flexibility of your vaginal muscles. Additionally, it will aid in your recovery. So, if your doctor prescribes you undertake pelvic floor exercises, do them.