Many caregivers recommend that new mothers wait for six weeks before having sex that involves penetration. This will give the uterus time to heal and reduce the risk of complications.
In the meantime, try to be intimate with your partner in other ways, such as kissing and mutual masturbation. Be sure to use lubrication – This quote comes directly from the service Sultry Escapades.
Vaginal dryness
Normally, the walls of the vagina stay lubricated with a thin layer of clear fluid. The hormone estrogen keeps the lining healthy and thick. If you don’t have enough estrogen, you may suffer from vaginal dryness. This can make it uncomfortable to engage in sexual activity. You may also have a rash or discharge in the area. It’s important to talk to your doctor about this problem because it can affect your quality of life.
The first few weeks after giving birth are the most likely time to experience this symptom. Your body is going through major hormonal changes and your cervix needs time to recover from the trauma of childbirth. Your partner should be aware of this and be patient with you. You should also try to use a water-based lubricant during sexual penetration to help you enjoy your intimacy.
If you’re breastfeeding, your sex life will be limited until your milk production is under control. The lactational hormone prolactin suppresses estrogen levels compounding the vaginal dryness you’re experiencing.
Vaginal dryness can also be caused by medications like antidepressants, antihistamines and some anti-inflammatory drugs. Other causes include the natural aging process and medical conditions such as psoriasis or sjogren’s syndrome (an autoimmune disorder that leads to dryness throughout the body). In some cases, this condition can be treated with a simple change in diet.
Excessive bleeding
The uterus is still healing after giving birth, and if you return to sexual activity too soon, you can experience heavy bleeding that could lead to a hemorrhage or uterine infection. You should also be sure to use some form of contraception if you want to avoid pregnancy until your periods start again.
Even if your doctor has given you the go-ahead, you may not feel ready or interested in sex just yet. This is perfectly normal and should be respected. You and your partner need time to get accustomed to each other’s bodies and find a new rhythm in your relationship.
It is also possible that penetrative sex will be painful for the first few times. This is caused by both tissue trauma and low levels of estrogen that cause the uterus to be less elastic. Regardless of whether you gave birth vaginally or by C-section, this pain is completely normal and will resolve as your body heals.
You can get pregnant as early as 3 weeks after having a baby, even if you’re breastfeeding and your periods haven’t started yet. That’s why it’s important to use contraception if you want to prevent pregnancy until you’re cleared by your doctor for sexual activity again. You’ll have a chance to discuss contraception with your doctor before you leave the hospital and at your postnatal checkups.
Infections
Most doctors recommend that women wait six weeks after giving birth before engaging in sexual activity that involves penetration. This is because they are usually still bleeding and at risk for a hemorrhage or uterine infection. Plus, anything that enters the vagina like sperm or feminine products can introduce bacteria that could cause an infection. This is particularly true if the woman had a cesarean delivery. Many c-sections result in a dilated cervix, which can put her at higher risk for an infection if she engages in postpartum sex too early.
Infections can occur in any part of the body, but are especially dangerous during pregnancy and the postpartum period. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and even fungi. These infections can range from minor to severe, and can include fever, chills, flu-like symptoms, and other signs of illness. If you develop these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Infections can also be caused by a condition called transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs or prion diseases). These are a group of disorders that are caused by faulty proteins that affect other parts of the body. They can lead to a number of different health problems, including brain disease. They can also lead to a life-threatening condition known as sepsis. Sepsis is a medical emergency and needs to be treated immediately.
Low libido
For many women, a lack of interest in sex is a common postpartum symptom. This could be due to the sudden hormone shifts that occur after delivery, which can decrease libido, vaginal blood flow and lubrication. It’s important to talk with your practitioner about these issues (though it may be tempting to hide them).
Another major reason why new moms have low libido is fatigue. During the day, you’re focused on keeping your baby happy and healthy and you might not get enough sleep. In addition, the hormonal shifts that accompany breastfeeding can also cause low libido. This is because the oxytocin and prolactin that promote maternal bonding can increase your hunger while decreasing your levels of estrogen and testosterone.
If you had a C-section, your doctor may recommend abstaining from sex for six weeks as the incision needs time to heal. Similarly, you should avoid sexual activity if you’re still leaking, have a foul smell, or have excessive bleeding or clots. Lastly, it’s also important to keep in mind that some medications can have a negative effect on your libido. For example, antidepressants can decrease libido in some people. If your low libido is bothersome or affecting your relationship, you might consider seeing a psychotherapist to address personal and relational stressors. This can be especially beneficial if your partner is experiencing the same issue and you’re both struggling to communicate effectively.
See Also:
