Sex After C-Section

So just when can you have sex after c-section?

Some women are anxious to begin having sex again, others wish they could put it off as long as they can and some experience pain or discomfort.

So resuming sexual activity is different for everyone and there's no one answer that fits all, however there are a few tips that might help you out.

When is it safe to have sex again?

Most doctors and specialists will say you should wait at least 4 weeks after having a c-section to have sex again.  The reasoning behind this is you want to wait until your body returns to its normal, healed state which typically takes about 4 weeks. But there are also doctors that will tell you to wait 8 weeks and some doctors have even been known to say you can have sex any time you feel up to it.  On average, however, most doctors will tell you to wait until the bleeding stops and your body is well on its way to healing.  

With all these varying opinions, how do you know what's right for you? 

There are many factors that a doctor takes into consideration for your specific case. However, first and foremost infection and postpartum hemorrhage is of most concern.  This happens because people rush into postpartum sex or do not follow lifting recommendations. 

When the placenta detaches from the uterus, it leaves a wound which is one of the reasons you bleed after childbirth. Therefore having sex or using tampons prior to proper healing could introduce an infection.

So do you absolutely have to wait several weeks?  Many women don't, however it's highly recommended that you do.  Also check with your doctor or a professional before you have sex.  If you want to ensure less risk of infection, then waiting until your lochia bleeding stops or however long your doctor recommends, is your best solution. 

Having sex again may feel a little like being new at it.  There may be a little pain, but overall you're probably going to feel a little hesitant or cautious. But that's ok.  No matter when you have sex again, you'll want to take it slow and be very careful. 

Intercourse pain after c-section

Most women tread lightly when having sex again after a c-section.  I've often heard it said that it's like being a virgin again.  It's helpful to remember that your connective tissues, muscles and ligaments got pulled and stretched quite a bit, so it will take time for things to begin to feel normal again.  

Also, you may not have had sex in several weeks so things can sometimes stiffen up a bit.  This is normal so take it slow.  No fast and furious moves.

Some women have experienced pain even as long as 12 weeks or more after a c-section. The best thing you can do is listen to your doctor, listen to your body and do what feels comfortable for you.  As far a the pain goes, it's a process. As long as your doctor advises that sex is ok, it may take perseverance.  Just go slow, a little at a time and things will begin to get better.