How long after giving birth can you resume sexual intercourse?

Apr 22, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
After giving birth, which generally refers to the period following delivery, it is usually recommended to wait 6–8 weeks before resuming sexual intercourse. If any abnormal symptoms occur after delivery, prompt medical attention is advised. During the recovery period, women should maintain good external genital hygiene, avoid excessive fatigue, maintain a positive mindset, and ensure adequate nutrition to promote faster physical recovery.

After giving birth, it is generally recommended to wait 6–8 weeks before resuming sexual intercourse. If any abnormal symptoms occur postpartum, medical attention should be sought promptly. The details are as follows:

A waiting period of 6–8 weeks after delivery is advised to allow sufficient time for a woman's body to recover. For women who have had a normal vaginal delivery without serious complications, waiting for about 6 weeks may be appropriate. During this time, the reproductive tract and pelvic floor muscles gradually heal, and lochia (postpartum vaginal discharge) typically clears up. However, if a cesarean section was performed or if there were significant complications during delivery, recovery may take longer, and it is advisable to wait 8 weeks before resuming sexual activity. This is because cesarean delivery involves greater physical trauma and requires additional time for wound healing and restoration of uterine function.

During the recovery period, women should maintain good perineal hygiene, avoid excessive fatigue, maintain a positive mindset, and ensure adequate nutrition to promote faster recovery.