Postpartum Intimacy
Timing of resuming sexual activity following delivery should be discussed with your OBGYN. It is often recommended to wait at least 6 weeks to have vaginal intercourse following vaginal delivery or cesarean section. However, recommendations may be different depending on whether you had a high degree tear, required an episiotomy, or had other postpartum complications. These factors are all considered by your OBGYN when he or she clears you to resume sexual activity. Importantly, even if given the ‘green light’ to resume sexual activity after 6 weeks, many women aren’t yet ready to become intimate again so soon after delivery. The transition to motherhood (or adding another child to a family) is significant and may come with fatigue, body changes that may affect self-image, and at times postpartum depression or anxiety. All of these factors may impact your desire to become intimate again. If you are struggling with sexual health postpartum, please speak with your OBGYN.