How many months after a natural childbirth can you resume sexual intercourse?
Aug 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
"Having sex" generally refers to sexual intercourse, and "natural childbirth" means vaginal delivery. Under normal circumstances, sexual activity can resume 42 days after vaginal delivery. After natural childbirth, the uterus requires a certain amount of time to return to its pre-pregnancy state. Following vaginal delivery, a woman's uterus undergoes a series of physiological changes, such as uterine contractions and discharge of lochia. Waiting until 42 days postpartum before resuming sexual activity helps ensure that the uterus has fully recovered.
"Having intercourse" generally refers to sexual activity, and "vaginal delivery" means natural childbirth. Under normal circumstances, sexual activity can resume 42 days after vaginal delivery. The detailed explanation is as follows:
After vaginal delivery, the uterus requires a certain amount of time to return to its pre-pregnancy state. Following childbirth, the uterus undergoes a series of physiological changes, such as uterine contractions and lochia discharge. Waiting 42 days before resuming sexual activity helps ensure complete recovery of the uterus and reduces the risk of uterine infection and other complications. Additionally, some women may require procedures such as episiotomy or repair of anal sphincter tears during vaginal delivery, and these incisions or wounds need time to heal. Waiting 42 days ensures adequate wound healing and reduces the risk of infection and other complications. Moreover, women may still experience mild vaginal bleeding and discharge, known as lochia, after vaginal delivery. Waiting 42 days reduces the risk of bleeding during sexual activity and lowers the likelihood of infection.
In summary, it is essential to wait at least 42 days after vaginal delivery before resuming sexual activity, to avoid complications such as bleeding or pain due to incomplete recovery. If significant bleeding occurs after sexual intercourse, it is recommended to seek prompt medical attention at a reputable hospital.
