Postpartum Sex?

Question

I'm like ten million kinds of anxious about having sex after giving birth. It was an easy delivery, barely tore, 2 stitches, wasn't on anything heavier than Motrin, I'm already mostly healed after 2 weeks... But I've heard so many horror stories about sex after being horrible or painful or different and I wanted to hear from more experienced people I guess?

Answer

First, don't have sex until your Dr clears you. Sex so soon after PP can put you at risk for infection, pregnancy, and postpartum hemorrhage. PP hemorrhage can be fatal. There is no reason to rush it. Let your body heal.

There are a few things that can cause discomfort after birth. Obviously tearing and episiotomies can give you scar tissue which can hurt. But after my first I had estrogen depletion. I was nursing and (according to my OB) the estrogen gets so tied up in milk production, it can be painful to have intercourse. If it gets bad, the dr can give you estrogen cream. It does go away in time.

Let your body heal. Have lube available in case you need it. Don't be afraid to stop if you need to. The good news is, I had zero problems with PP sex after my second and third kids. Every pregnancy and PP healing experience is different.

Answer

It is definitely different. However, after the first time- it gets better! I would encourage you to go slow and use naturally-based lubricant or coconut oil to make up for the lack of lubrication that your body will make. Also, if you're breastfeeding, do not be upset when touching that used to feel good now feels terrible. Set boundaries and keep open communication. Good luck!

Postpartum Sex?

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