Sex after giving birth: how long should I wait?

Having a baby is a life-changing experience that impacts a woman physically, mentally and emotionally. For some women, getting back to their pre-birth routine is a somewhat straightforward experience, while for others, it is more of a challenge.

One factor that women may struggle with after giving birth is engaging in sexual intercourse, often wondering when is the right time to do so. Distinguished consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Shazia Malik is here to answer any doubts you may have.  

How quickly can I get pregnant again after giving birth?

It may come as a surprise but women can become pregnant again just three weeks after giving birth. It is best to wait until postpartum bleeding (lochia) has stopped before resuming intercourse, which normally takes around three to four weeks after giving birth.

However, the amount of time it takes for bleeding to stop depends on multiple factors, including the type of birth, if any complications have occurred and the recovery period.

Recovery is dependent on each individual. Two women who give birth on the same day may not have the same recovery period. Women who give birth vaginally must wait until postpartum bleeding (lochia) has stopped before engaging in sexual intercourse, while for women who give birth via caesarean section (C-section), it is essential to wait until the wound has completely healed. The average time it takes for a C-section wound to heal is typically six weeks.

How do I know if I am ready to have sex again after giving birth?

There are several factors to consider before engaging in intercourse after giving birth.

As previously mentioned, it normally takes six weeks for any wound or infection to clear up after giving birth via C-section.

If you have sex within two weeks after delivering a baby, this may increase the risk of developing an infection or a haemorrhage. During or after the birth process, some women may require an episiotomy (a cut made near the vaginal opening to create enough room for the baby) or stitches due to an infection. It is crucial that women wait to have sex again until these wounds have fully healed in order to prevent pain or infection. An episiotomy requires four to six weeks to heal.

I wish to stress that before having sex after giving birth, you should speak to your midwife or a healthcare professional who can advise you on what is best to do according to your circumstances and they can address any specific concerns you may have.

How can I prevent becoming pregnant again soon after giving birth?

One of the major concerns couples have after having a baby is the prevention of conception again soon or immediately afterwards. Due to this, it is essential to consider taking contraception if deciding to have sex soon after giving birth.  

For generations, many of us have been told that breastfeeding and delayed periods can protect against pregnancy, but I want to stress that these are complete myths, therefore couples should discuss their contraceptive needs and options with an expert before having sex again after the delivery of their baby/newborn.

I advise couples to wait at least 12 months before having another baby, especially if the baby was born via c-section.  

In addition to physical changes, there are many psychological changes which can occur after giving birth. Due to hormone changes, some women may not feel like engaging in sexual activity for a while after delivering their baby.

The lack of sleep and stress of taking care of a newborn can contribute to some women ‘not being in the mood’, alongside the physical factors, such as vaginal dryness or soreness. Breastfeeding can also cause a drop in oestrogen levels. It is important to remember that sex is supposed to be enjoyable, comfortable and pleasurable, therefore it is essential that you feel ready before engaging in sexual activity after birth. Lubrication is a great option to help with any dryness felt due to hormonal changes.

Again, every woman’s birth recovery is different and there is no clear timeline they must follow after birth. They must ensure they’re ready both physically and emotionally to have sex again.

It is important to consult with your healthcare provider in order to determine what is best for you and the six-week postnatal check-up is the best time for your healthcare provider to examine you, ensuring that it is safe for you to re-engage in intercourse and provide you with contraception.

If you have recently given birth and would like to seek the advice of Dr Malik, do not hesitate to do so by booking a consultation via her Top Doctors profile today.