To wait a little
First of all you have to wait for the lochia to endthis loss of blood following childbirth, which can last about three weeks, because during this period the cervix is still wide open, which favors infections.
It is also necessary to wait for the healing of the episiotomy if it has been performed (read below).
Following the birth of a child, our grandmothers recommended allowing 40 days (1.5 months) to pass before having sexual intercourse again. This is indeed an average time, but it is, of course, up to each couple to decide according to their desire…
Love without risk… of second pregnancy
We can never repeat it enough, but breastfeeding your baby is not a totally reliable method of contraception, even less if breastfeeding is mixed! The resumption of a normal menstrual cycle is unpredictable, and relying on the return of bed is not a good solution since these first periods will have been preceded by ovulation! You should talk about contraception even before this return to bed (and the resumption of sexuality) with your gynecologist, and he will be able to advise you on the one that will be best suited to you. Do not neglect it, you risk an unwanted and far too early pregnancy.
Can an episiotomy prevent sexual intercourse?
After birth, aftermath of episiotomy (incision of the perineum during childbirth to better let the child through, sutured immediately afterwards) can be painful and effectively prevent any desire for sexual relations. But generally, during the first days after childbirth, making love is far from being a priority, because baby occupies all the space-time, and all the thoughts! Fortunately, the consequences of the episiotomy fade quite quickly, because this area heals well if the care is carried out correctly. Count 5 to 7 weeks for complete healing, and sensitivity that may persist for some time – it depends on the woman and the quality of the scar. If you have very specific pain, see your doctor to find out if you have thread problems or a small local infection in the scar. Otherwise, have confidence, wait for the moment that seems appropriate to you and relax, to gently reconnect with sexuality. The partner will be advised to remain particularly attentive during penetration, after real foreplay to limit discomfort, and, of course, to stop in case of pain: it is essential to remain attentive. But there is no need to tense up on a possible difficulty, if the recovery is done gently, with tenderness and that is the wish of the two young parents.
Sex after baby in numbers
1 couple out of 5 – only – reconnects with their sexuality one month after childbirth.
For the majority of couples, it is necessary to wait 7 weeks postpartum.