Sex After a Baby
The arrival of a bundle of joy brings along a host of new experiences, emotions, and physical changes. And one of the topics that are often not discussed enough for one reason or another is sex after childbirth. It is important to understand that the experience is different for every woman, but one thing that is common for all is the need for patience and understanding. In this blog post, we will discuss common questions about sex after a baby including how long it is recommended to avoid, what it will feel like, lubrication options, and birth control options.
1. How long it is recommended to avoid penetration and why?
First and foremost, it's essential to discuss sexual activity with your healthcare provider before resuming any sexual activity, including penetration.Your body goes through a lot of changes during childbirth, and it takes time for it to heal. It is typically recommended that you wait at least six weeks after vaginal childbirth before resuming penetrative sex. Whether you've had a vaginal birth or a C-section the initial 6 weeks of postpartum is crucial as it allows your body to heal fully, and also reduces the risk of infection. However, it is essential to note that some women may need more time depending on the type of delivery or if any complications arose during childbirth. Additionally, it's important to remember that your body has gone through and continues to go through a tremendous amount of physical and emotional changes postpartum, so it's normal to need some time to adjust.
2. What will it feel like, and will it hurt?
The first time you have sex after having a baby can feel different. When you do decide to resume sexual activity, it's important to communicate with your partner about how you're feeling. Some women may experience pain or discomfort during penetration after childbirth, while others may not. Your partner can help by being patient and supportive, and by focusing on other forms of intimacy that may not involve penetration initially. Your vagina may be drier than usual, and penetration may be uncomfortable or even painful. This discomfort is mainly because of hormonal changes in your body, which can cause vaginal dryness. Rest assured that this discomfort is common, and it will decrease over time as your body continues to heal. You can also try using a water-based lubricant to make sex more comfortable, but avoid using oil-based lubricants as they can damage condoms and increase the risk of infection.
3. Lubrication - benefits and options
As mentioned earlier, hormonal changes can cause vaginal dryness, which can make sex uncomfortable. Lubricants come in different options, including water-based, silicone-based, and oil-based lubricants. Water-based lubricants are the most popular as they are safe to use with condoms and are less likely to cause allergic reactions. Silicone-based lubricants are long-lasting, but they are not recommended for use with silicone sex toys. Oil-based lubricants can break down condoms and increase the risk of pregnancy.
4. Birth control options
After giving birth, you may need to consider birth control options, even if you are breastfeeding. I’m begging you, as a doula, DO NOT believe when people tell you that you can’t get pregnant while you are breastfeeding. There are different options (that are ACTUALLY effective) available, including hormonal birth control methods such as birth control pills, patches, injections, and IUDs. It is essential to speak to your healthcare provider about birth control options that will work best for you.
In conclusion, resuming sexual activity after having a baby can be a complicated and sometimes uncomfortable process, but it's important to remember that everyone's experience is different. Communicating with your partner, taking things slowly, and discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider can help make the process more comfortable and enjoyable. And as always, your doula is here to support you every step of the way.
