Sex after Childbirth

After delivery uterus takes about 6 weeks to heal completely. Those women have not had a normal (vaginal) delivery, like cesarean or through vacuum extraction, may take more than 6 weeks for healing.

The vaginal walls are tender after the delivery. It has been observed that before resuming sexual activity the couple must make sure of a few things, ignoring which may even lead to death of the women.

Oral sex must be avoided by the women for a few months after childbirth. The air from man`s mouth may cause infection to the unhealed womb. The act of cunnilingus, leading to entry of air inside the vagina, may lead to death of the women due to ` air embolism`. This is because the blood vessels which are not fully healed can easily absorb the air and swell leading to painful death.

Most women prefer to wait for almost 40 days before resuming sexual activities. Women who have had a normal delivery may become ready for the intercourse much before than women who have had complications during the childbirth.

There have been cases which show women being comfortable with intercourse within 4 weeks of the delivery. So, it entirely depends from person to person.

Those women who have had experienced exhaustive perineal training or those who had an episiotomy may not be able to become comfortable for several months.

It is therefore important that the couple understand the issue, plan the pregnancy accordingly and be prepared for these challenges.

Useful Tips

Make sure you eat a nutritious diet and take ample amount of rest. Baby care will consume most of your energy and whatever energy you are left with try to do simple exercises to tone up for vaginal musculature.

Kegel exercises and pelvic floor exercises are very helpful. These exercises will help in strengthening the reproductive system, assist in healing and prepare it for the intercourse.

The perineal area will feel very sensitive. These muscles are stretched and hence do not allow intercourse to be pleasurable. Choose a position that will make you feel comfortable. Do not hesitate to tell your partner about it.

Application of lubricants may make you feel better, especially if problem of vaginal dryness exists.