Question

When can I have sex after I have a baby?

Answer

We usually recommend waiting 6 weeks after delivery to resume intercourse. By 6 weeks vaginal bleeding and lochia from the uterus usually stops, and if you had tears in the vagina or an episiotomy it is usually totally healed by then, making intercourse less uncomfortable. If you do have sex before that, make sure you use birth control. In addition, the vagina can be dry due to hormonal changes, especially in breastfeeding, so using a lubricant is important. A water soluble lubricant like Astroglide® or K-Y® Jelly can be useful.


Wendy Fried, M.D., FACOG, FACS, is an OB/Gyn with Northern Obstetrics and Gynecology, PC in North Hills, New York

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