Is Sex After Pregnancy Really That Enjoyable?

Don't feel like having sex after pregnancy? Well, it's quite natural for you to ignore lovemaking weeks after delivery. Even doctors recommend "no sex" until your bleeding (lochia) has stopped. This may take around 2-6 weeks. In the case of caesarean deliveries, your body would not like the passion until it heals.

Why You Don't Enjoy Sex After Pregnancy?

• You feel overall discomfort and fatigue
• You feel pain in case of stitches.
• There is reduced natural lubrication up to 8-10 weeks after delivery, especially when breastfeeding.
• You feel unattractive due to the changes occurring in your body after delivery.
• You are anxious about your newborn and the new life that you have entered into.
• There are many distractions such as a wailing baby and others.
• Your partner may also not feel like having sex. Rest assured; there is nothing personal in this.
• You have a fear of conception. Yes, you can get pregnant while breastfeeding.

When To Have Sex After Pregnancy?

You doctor would recommend waiting until your 6-week check-ups are over. Until then, your periods get regular and your body has healed much. You need to talk to your doctor about contraceptive methods because there is a possibility of getting pregnant, even if you are breastfeeding.

For breastfeeding moms, doctors do not recommend contraceptive pills containing estrogen, as they decrease your milk production. The long-term effects of Progesterone-only pills on babies are not known. The other option is condoms. Use them with a contraceptive cream or gel. During your six-week check-up, discuss the use of IUD or diaphragm with your doctor.

As a general opinion, you should resume sex after pregnancy only when you feel ready for it, physically and emotionally. This is the time for you and your partner to understand each other.

Sex after pregnancy has its own benefits. During sex, hormones are released that trigger contractions, which help your uterus to get back to its original state. Besides this, you pep up your relationship with your partner and this strengthens the physical and emotional bond between you.

Hot Tips For Sex After Pregnancy

• Talk to each other about your feelings.
• Be gentle. Do not rush up things.
• Avoid penetration before six weeks of delivery. Focus on oral sex or caressing the first few times.
• Spend more time in cuddling each other, kissing, and caressing. Concentrate on foreplay for arousal.
• You will have to use a lubricant until your hormone levels revert to normal. Until then, your vagina feels dry, as there is no natural lubrication.
• You might feel pain or tightness, in case you have had stitches or episiotomy. Let your partner know about the slightest discomfort you feel while having sex.
• A gentle massage, warm bath, and lubricant contribute to a great sex!
• If you feel uneasy, try different positions.
• Remember, penetration is not important at this time; it's more about re-bonding with your partner.

So, if you want to have sex after pregnancy, but are fearful, relax! Just enjoy!