How long after hemorrhoid surgery can one resume sexual activity?

Aug 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
In general, the timing for resuming sexual activity after hemorrhoid surgery depends on the surgical method and individual recovery. Recovery from minimally invasive surgery is relatively quick, and sexual activity may be attempted after approximately 2-3 weeks. Traditional surgery involves greater trauma and typically requires 3-4 weeks or longer, with complete wound healing before resuming sexual intercourse. During the postoperative recovery period, it is important to maintain anal hygiene and clean the area with warm water after bowel movements.

     Generally, the time to resume sexual activity after hemorrhoid surgery depends on the surgical method and recovery progress. Recovery from minimally invasive surgery is quicker, and sexual activity can usually be attempted after 2-3 weeks. Traditional surgery involves more trauma, requiring 3-4 weeks or even longer until the wound is fully healed before resuming sexual activity. Detailed analysis is as follows:

     If minimally invasive surgery is performed, such as stapled hemorrhoidopexy, the surgical trauma is small, with minimal bleeding and a shorter recovery period. If there is no wound infection, bleeding, or increased pain after surgery, the wound generally heals in about 2 weeks, with significant relief from swelling and pain. At this time, gentle activities can be attempted first. If there is no discomfort, sexual activity can be gradually resumed around 3 weeks post-surgery, but movements should be gentle to avoid excessive pulling or straining around the anal tissues.

     For traditional surgeries, such as external stripping and internal ligation, there is a larger incision and a longer healing period. The wound typically undergoes processes such as swelling, scabbing, and shedding after surgery. The wound usually heals initially in about 3 weeks and fully heals after 4 weeks. Resuming sexual activity too early may cause wound dehiscence, bleeding, or infection, increasing pain. Therefore, it is necessary to wait for 3-4 weeks and gradually resume sexual activity only after confirming that there is no redness, swelling, discharge from the wound, and the pain has completely subsided.

     During the postoperative recovery period, it is important to keep the anal area clean, washing with warm water after bowel movements to avoid infection. Diet-wise, it is advisable to consume more foods rich in dietary fiber to maintain smooth bowel movements and prevent wound irritation during defecation.

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