As a new parent, you may be wondering when it is safe to resume sexual activity after giving birth. This is a common concern amongst new parents, as the body goes through significant changes during and after pregnancy. In this article, I will provide insight into the physical changes that occur after giving birth, when it is safe to resume sexual activity, how to deal with painful sex, and alternative ways to be intimate after giving birth.
Understanding the Physical Changes after Giving Birth
After giving birth, the body goes through significant changes, including physical and hormonal changes. The vagina and perineum, the area between the vagina and anus, may be swollen, sore, or bruised after delivery. The uterus also takes time to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size, causing cramping and discomfort. Hormonal changes can also affect sexual desire and arousal. The body may produce less estrogen, which can result in vaginal dryness, making sex uncomfortable or painful.
Breastfeeding can also affect sexual desire and arousal. The hormone, prolactin, which is responsible for milk production, can suppress ovulation and reduce estrogen levels. This can result in vaginal dryness and a decrease in sexual desire.
When is it Safe to Have Sex after Giving Birth?
The general rule of thumb is to wait six weeks after giving birth before resuming sexual activity. Here is the NHS advice.This allows the body to heal and reduces the risk of infection. However, it is important to note that every woman’s recovery time is different, and it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity.
It is also important to note that if you had a cesarean delivery, it may take longer for your body to heal. You should wait until your healthcare provider gives you the go-ahead before resuming sexual activity.
Painful Sex after Birth: Causes and Solutions
Painful sex is a common concern after giving birth. The causes of painful sex can vary, including vaginal dryness, scar tissue, and muscle tension. It is essential to communicate with your partner and healthcare provider about any pain or discomfort during sex.
Using a water-based lubricant can help reduce vaginal dryness and make sex more comfortable. Kegel exercises, which involve contracting and relaxing your pelvic floor muscles, can also help improve muscle tone and reduce pain during sex.
If scar tissue is causing pain during sex, your healthcare provider may recommend pelvic floor physical therapy or other treatments to help break down the scar tissue.
Can You Have an Orgasm after Giving Birth?
Yes, you can have an orgasm after giving birth. However, it may take some time for sexual desire and arousal to return to pre-pregnancy levels. Hormonal changes, fatigue, and stress can all affect sexual desire and arousal.
It is essential to communicate with your partner and take your time during sexual activity. Experimenting with different positions and techniques can help you find what works best for you. It is also important to remember that orgasms are not the only measure of sexual satisfaction.
Tips for Resuming Sexual Activity after Giving Birth
When resuming sexual activity after giving birth, it is important to take it slow and communicate with your partner. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Wait until you feel ready and have the go-ahead from your healthcare provider
- Use a water-based lubricant to reduce vaginal dryness or coconut oil
- Experiment with different positions and techniques to find what works best for you
- Take your time and communicate with your partner about any pain or discomfort
- Focus on intimacy and connection, rather than just orgasms
Alternative Ways to Be Intimate after Giving Birth
If you are not ready to resume sexual activity or experience pain during sex, there are alternative ways to be intimate with your partner. Here are some ideas:
- Cuddling and holding hands
- Massages and other forms of touch
- Non-sexual intimacy, such as spending time together and talking
- Masturbation and self-exploration
Remember, intimacy is about more than just sex. It is about connecting with your partner on an emotional and physical level.
Postpartum Sex Positions to Try
When resuming sexual activity after giving birth, it is important to find positions that are comfortable and reduce the risk of pain or discomfort. Here are some postpartum sex positions to try:
- Spooning: This position allows for deeper penetration while reducing pressure on the perineum.
- Woman-on-top: This position allows you to control the depth and speed of penetration while reducing pressure on the perineum.
- Side-by-side: This position is similar to spooning and allows for deep penetration while reducing pressure on the perineum.
- Rear-entry: This position allows for deeper penetration while reducing pressure on the perineum.
Remember to communicate with your partner and take your time to find what works best for you.
Postpartum Sex Toys to Consider
Sex toys can be a great way to enhance intimacy and pleasure after giving birth. Here are some postpartum sex toys to consider:
- Vibrators: Vibrators can help reduce vaginal dryness and enhance sexual pleasure.
- Kegel balls: Kegel balls can help improve pelvic floor muscle tone and reduce pain during sex.
- Dildos: Dildos can be used for penetration and can help reduce pressure on the perineum.
- Massage oils: Massage oils can enhance intimacy and relaxation during sexual activity.
Remember to communicate with your partner and take your time to find what works best for you.
When to Seek Professional Help for Postpartum Sex Issues
If you experience pain or discomfort during sex, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help identify the cause of the pain and recommend treatments or therapies to help alleviate the pain.
If you experience a lack of sexual desire or other sexual problems, it may be helpful to consult with a sex therapist. They can help identify underlying issues and recommend strategies to improve sexual satisfaction and intimacy.
How can Hypnotherapy Help for Postpartum Sex Issues
Emotionally, if your anxiety is too much to handle when it comes to thinking about resuming sex, you must look into getting some support. Hypnotherapy can help manage your anxiety around resuming sex, it can increase your libido and arousal, it can help you to let go of any shame and guilt you may feel towards your baby or your partner. Please don’t suffer in silence. If you experience pain or discomfort during sex, with no medical cause it hypnosis can break that pain tension cycle. Find out more about painful sex here.
Through an in-depth consultation, I can help identify underlying issues and recommend strategies to improve sexual satisfaction and intimacy.
Conclusion: Embracing a New Chapter in Your Sex Life
Resuming sexual activity after giving birth can be a challenging and rewarding experience. It is important to communicate with your partner, take your time, and be open to trying new things. Remember that intimacy is about more than just sex and that there are alternative ways to be intimate with your partner. If you experience pain or discomfort, consult with your healthcare provider or a sex therapist for help. Embrace this new chapter in your sex life and enjoy the journey.
Get In Touch
If you are experiencing pain or discomfort during postpartum sex, or are unsure about resuming sexual activity after giving birth, get in touch with us. We can help provide guidance and support to help you navigate this challenging and rewarding experience. Click here to book a call.