Sex after Child Birth

There are no rules about when you should start making love again.

If you have had stitches ask your doctor or health visitor how long it will take before you can start to have sex again. If you haven't had stitches there is no reason why you can't start to have sex once you feel you are ready.

Do make sure you are ready first, don't just have sex because your partner wants you to. You will feel very tired and run down for a while after your baby is born. Your hormones will also have changed, so allow time to adjust.

When you are ready to have intercourse again it might be a good idea to use a lubricating jelly the first time because your vagina will be drier than usual.

It can be hard to make time for yourself and your partner with a new baby around. Ask a family member or friend to take the baby for a few hours or even over night. Then spoil yourself and your partner with a romantic evening together.

Remember to use a contraception because even if you have not had a period yet it is still possible for you to conceive. Speak to your doctor or health visitor.