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Having Sex After Birth?

Do you have to wait a certain amount of time to have sex after you've given birth?
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profile picture of Paula Kashtan
Updated March 2, 2017
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We’d never stand in the way of love… but wait at least six weeks. It takes your uterus and cervix time to heal (this applies to both vaginal and cesarean deliveries) so getting it on any sooner puts you at risk of infection. (Not to mention pain!) Hold off on intercourse until you get the go-head from your doctor, most likely at your six-week checkup.

Even though penetration is off limits, you can certainly engage in other forms of sexual intimacy before the six week mark. Frankly, though, we doubt you’ll be up for much more than a foot rub and a cuddle. In fact, new moms have been known to tell their mate that sex is forbidden for eight, ten or even twelve weeks postpartum. (We don’t ordinarily condone dishonesty… but all’s fair when you’ve just pushed a beach ball out of your body!)

Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.

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