Postpartum sex...tmi

Im terrified. Im 8 weeks out after c section and we tried to do the deed last night. It was excruciating to where we couldnt even do it.

The next morning i decided to feel around with my fingers and noticed how tight and hard it felt. How the heck am I ever going to be intimate again..

Should i try self pleasure to see if that helps "loosen" things up or am I going to have to experience painful sex no matter what?!?!