Some women experience discomfort when they start having intercourse again after delivering a baby. If you've had an episiotomy or vaginal laceration, the repair site may be uncomfortable for weeks or even months after delivery. Waiting to resume intercourse until the site is fully healed, usually about six weeks, is important for long-term recovery. Also, when you're ready to have intercourse, try a position that allows you to control the depth of penetration, for instance, woman-on-top or side-by-side.
Many women, especially those who are breastfeeding, have low levels of estrogen during the postpartum period, and that can make vaginal tissue thinner and drier. If you notice dryness during intercourse, use a water-soluble lubricant to ease any discomfort. Steer clear of oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly products, especially if you're using condoms — they can weaken the latex and cause the condom to rupture. If dryness is a severe problem, your healthcare provider may recommend a vaginal estrogen cream to restore the tissue to its normal condition.
Many women, especially those who are breastfeeding, have low levels of estrogen during the postpartum period, and that can make vaginal tissue thinner and drier. If you notice dryness during intercourse, use a water-soluble lubricant to ease any discomfort. Steer clear of oil-based lubricants such as petroleum jelly products, especially if you're using condoms — they can weaken the latex and cause the condom to rupture. If dryness is a severe problem, your healthcare provider may recommend a vaginal estrogen cream to restore the tissue to its normal condition.
Breastfeeding women often experience uncomfortable leakage of milk during sexual activity. Wearing a bra with nursing pads (not sexy, but functional) or keeping an absorbent towel nearby can help alleviate the problem.
Finally, do your Kegel exercises. They can help a stretched-out vagina regain some tone after a vaginal birth and make sex more enjoyable as a result.
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