When is it “time” and how to make sure that sex after childbirth and pain do not become synonymous? We asked gynecologist and head of the International Academy of Healthy Life Elena Berezovskaya.
It is even possible right away, but there is a “but”
From a gynecological point of view, there are no specific optimal time periods for resuming sexual activity. If there is a desire, sex is possible even immediately after childbirth.
However, there are two important nuances. Firstly, postpartum discharge (lochia) increases the risk of infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes. They can continue for up to 6-8 weeks. This, of course, is not a reason to abstain: just use a condom.
Secondly, you should not feel pain during sex. However, the first sexual intercourse may be accompanied by painful sensations. Your reproductive system will return to normal within 4-8 weeks, and there could still be microtraumas, tears, stitches.
So sex at first should not be intense, and your partner should be slow and careful. Many doctors recommend partial insertion of the penis into the vagina during the first sexual intercourse after childbirth.
Sex helps to identify complications
You don’t need to get special medical permission for sex after giving birth. You should visit a gynecologist after 6-10 weeks, and if you have any complaints, at any time.
Doctors advise starting sexual activity at any time also because the appearance of very severe pain can be a signal of some problem – a postpartum complication. The more time passes after childbirth, the less pain you should experience.
When is it “possible” after a cesarean section
It takes at least six months for full-fledged scars to form after a cesarean section or perineal tears and incisions during natural childbirth. During this time, sex may be accompanied by discomfort. In such cases, it is better to postpone the beginning of sexual activity for several weeks.
It is even possible right away, but there is a “but”
From a gynecological point of view, there are no specific optimal time periods for resuming sexual activity. If there is a desire, sex is possible even immediately after childbirth.
However, there are two important nuances. Firstly, postpartum discharge (lochia) increases the risk of infection of the uterus and fallopian tubes. They can continue for up to 6-8 weeks. This, of course, is not a reason to abstain: just use a condom.
Secondly, you should not feel pain during sex. However, the first sexual intercourse may be accompanied by painful sensations. Your reproductive system will return to normal within 4-8 weeks, and there could still be microtraumas, tears, stitches.
So sex at first should not be intense, and your partner should be slow and careful. Many doctors recommend partial insertion of the penis into the vagina during the first sexual intercourse after childbirth.
Sex helps to identify complications
You don’t need to get special medical permission for sex after giving birth. You should visit a gynecologist after 6-10 weeks, and if you have any complaints, at any time.
Doctors advise starting sexual activity at any time also because the appearance of very severe pain can be a signal of some problem – a postpartum complication. The more time passes after childbirth, the less pain you should experience.
When is it “possible” after a cesarean section
It takes at least six months for full-fledged scars to form after a cesarean section or perineal tears and incisions during natural childbirth. During this time, sex may be accompanied by discomfort. In such cases, it is better to postpone the beginning of sexual activity for several weeks.
The vaginal muscles are not skeletal, so it is impossible to “pump up” them with any methods or exercises. After childbirth, the prolapse of the vaginal walls for several months is considered a physiological norm.
It’s okay to not want sex
With the birth of a child, a woman begins a new life, filled not only with pleasant moments of motherhood, but also with an increased level of stress due to lack of sleep, worries, and overwork. The dulling of sexual desire in such circumstances is a natural process for most mothers.
Some people solve this problem with the help of psychologists, others cope on their own. Much depends on the partner, his support, and the general condition of the woman. Good arousal is very important here, because it is the key factor in comfortable and enjoyable sex.
Breastfeeding is not a substitute for contraception
Breastfeeding can create a condition called lactational amenorrhea , when eggs do not mature and menstruation does not occur. But the more time passes after childbirth, the lower the level of such protection. If you are not planning another pregnancy, consider more reliable contraception.
After delivery, you can use any contraceptive method that suits you. For example, the IUD can be inserted into the uterine cavity within 10 minutes after the birth of the placenta. Although most doctors insert it only after 6 weeks, when the reproductive organs return to normal.
Hormonal implants are also suitable as long-term contraception. They are inserted in the maternity hospital, regardless of whether the mother is breastfeeding or not. Hormonal contraceptives can be started 6-8 weeks after delivery, before this time there is a high risk of blood clots.