After giving birth, it is normal to feel a wide range of emotions. You may be overjoyed and thrilled to have a new baby in your life, but you may also be exhausted, emotionally drained, and unsure how to navigate your body’s changes.
One of the most pressing concerns for new mothers is when to resume intimacy. Here are some things you can expect when it comes to intimacy after delivery.
Post-Delivery Bleeding
After giving birth, you will experience a discharge called lochia. Lochia is a combination of blood, mucus, and uterine tissue that is left over from the placenta afterbirth. You may experience heavy bleeding for the first few days, which is normal.
However, if you experience excessive bleeding or cramping, speak to your healthcare provider immediately. As your body recovers, the bleeding will decrease, and eventually stop. It is best to wait until you have stopped bleeding before engaging in sexual activity.
Perineal Soreness
Many women experience perineal soreness after giving birth. The perineum is the area between the vagina and anus. If you had an episiotomy or tearing in this area, you may experience discomfort or pain.
Your healthcare provider may recommend taking pain medication or using a sitz bath to help ease the pain. It is best to wait until you feel comfortable enough to engage in sexual activity.
Changes in Hormones
After giving birth, your body experiences a wide range of hormonal changes. These changes can affect your mood, your energy levels, and your sex drive.
It is normal for your sex drive to decrease after giving birth, especially if you are experiencing fatigue or stress. Be patient with yourself, and give your body time to heal and adjust.
Difficulty Lubricating
Some women experience difficulty lubricating after delivery. This can be due to hormonal changes or perineal soreness. Speak to your healthcare provider about using a water-based lubricant to make sexual activity more comfortable.
Resuming Intimacy
It is important to have open and honest communication with your partner about when to resume intimacy. Some couples may choose to wait until the six-week postpartum checkup with their healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity.
However, every woman’s body heals differently, and it is important to listen to your body’s cues. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort during sexual activity, stop and try again another day.
Contraception
It is important to discuss contraception options with your healthcare provider before resuming sexual activity. Even if you are breastfeeding, you can still conceive.
Your healthcare provider can help you determine the best method of contraception for you.
Conclusion
Intimacy after delivery can be a challenge, but it is important to remember that your body needs time to heal and adjust. Be patient with yourself and your partner, and communicate openly about your needs and concerns.
Remember to prioritize your own physical and emotional health, and talk to your healthcare provider if you experience any pain or discomfort.