Sex After the Baby Is Born

When can I have sex after childbirth?

Generally, sex should wait after any vaginal bleeding due to childbirth has stopped. Most people can enjoy sex safely after 3 weeks. This waiting time is for the wound left by the placental departure to heal. Sex before the wound has healed may cause infection.

Why am I not interested in sex anymore?

There’s no need to worry if you don’t feel like having sex after childbirth because it’s a common condition. Many new mothers lose their sex drive for weeks and even months. Giving birth and being a new mom are exhausting. You are probably overwhelmed and sleepless, which makes it hard to get in the mood. In addition, if you breastfeed your baby, the hormone prolactin can affect your sex drive, too.

If you have a tear or stitches from an episiotomy, it’s understandable to avoid sex. After you have fully recovered, when the down-there areas don’t hurt anymore, you will feel the heat again. Even if you went through labor and delivery unscratched, which is unlikely but not impossible, your perineum may be bruised and painful to the touch. Fortunately, all of these physical challenges will go away with time.

In some cases, sex is difficult because of psychological factors. Some mothers are not happy about the changes in their bodies due to pregnancy and childbirth. They are worried that their partners may think they are not beautiful and attractive anymore.

Postpartum depression is another obstacle to sex after childbirth. This is a serious issue. If you feel depressed and have negative thoughts that interfere with the well-being of yours and your baby, seek professional help.

What to do if my partner wants to have sex but I don’t?

It’s advisable to talk with your partner about this right after childbirth so your two can understand each other and come up with a solution. If your partner wants sex before you do, he may feel rejected. However, don’t feel pressured into sex. Sex should be fun and pleasant for both of you, not a chore you have to comply with. However, if you really want to be intimate with your partner but your body is not ready yet, keep in mind that sex is not all about penetration. You can still have fun with touching and stimulation. Talking and cuddling are great ways to show each other love and care.

Sometimes, your partner may be the one who is hesitant about sex. He may be afraid that sex could hurt you. Anyway, communication is the best way to work through the problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.