When is it safe to have sex after giving birth?

After giving birth, you may be curious about when you can safely resume sexual activity (or you may not be interested at all, which is also more than fine!). The answer to this question can vary depending on several factors, including your physical and emotional recovery, the type of birth you had, and the type of contraceptives being used (if any). Here we explore the factors that can impact the timing of when you re-engage in sexual activity post-birth and provide guidance on how to determine when it is safe to do so.

Factors Affecting Postpartum Sexual Activity

Physical Recovery: One of the most important factors affecting postpartum sexual activity is your physical recovery. Vaginal birth can cause trauma to the perineum and vaginal tissues, and caesarean birth involves a surgical incision in the abdomen. These physical changes can cause pain, discomfort, and fatigue, which may affect your desire and ability to engage in sexual activity. It will be different for everyone so it’s important to tune into your own physical wellbeing here.

Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy and childbirth can cause significant hormonal changes in the body. After giving birth, the body undergoes a process called involution, during which the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size. This process can cause cramping and discomfort, as well as vaginal discharge and bleeding. These changes can also affect hormone levels and sexual desire, making it more challenging for some to even think about or engage in sexual activity.

Breastfeeding: For those who are breastfeeding, the production of the hormone prolactin can reduce sexual desire and cause vaginal dryness. Breastfeeding can also cause physical discomfort and soreness, which may make sexual activity more challenging.

Contraceptives: The type of contraceptives (birth control) being used can also impact the timing of postpartum sexual activity. Some methods such as condoms or diaphragms, can be used immediately after giving birth. Other methods, such as hormonal contraceptives, may need to be delayed until you have fully recovered and resumed regular menstrual cycles.

Fatigue: Just feeling permanently tired and maybe exhausted can make it feel like sex is a long, long way down your priority list.

When will I know if it’s OK?

The timing of postpartum sexual activity can vary depending on individual factors, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer. However, many healthcare providers recommend waiting at least six weeks after vaginal birth and eight weeks after caesarean birth before resuming sexual activity. This timeframe allows the body to heal and reduces the risk of infection and possible complications.

It is essential to have an open conversation with your healthcare provider about this area if you are not sure. They can evaluate your physical recovery, discuss any concerns or complications, and provide guidance on the use of contraceptives if you would like it.

Conclusion

Postpartum sexual activity can be a sensitive and personal topic, and it is normal to have questions or concerns. However, it is crucial to prioritise your physical and emotional recovery and to have an open conversation with your partner if you have one, and healthcare provider about your own personal circumstances and concerns if you have any. You should never feel pressured into doing anything you do not want to do/feel ready to do, but if you are physically and emotionally recovered from birth and feel ready, it can of course make you feel really good too!

References:

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2018). ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 210: Obstetric Analgesia and Anesthesia. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 131(5), e160-e168.
2. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2016). ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 156: Well-Woman Visit. Obstetrics and Gynecology, 127(6), e256-e267.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

We are here for you every step of the way with our courses and online Parent Hub and include an Ask the Midwife chat feature for all of your pregnancy-related questions:

GROUP COURSES

PARENT HUB