Sex after childbirth

You can start having sex again whenever you feel ready after your baby is born. You might feel sore, tired, or simply not in the mood – and that’s completely normal. There’s no rush and you shouldn’t feel pressured to do anything before you’re ready.

If you had a small tear, you may need about two weeks to heal. A larger tear or stitches may take four weeks or longer. Listen to your body and wait until your feel comfortable.

It is good to have some lubricant when you start having sexagain as there can be changes in your vagina. Be gentle when having sex for the first time, if sex is painful speak to your GP. It is good to talk to your partner about your feelings about having sex again and any pain you have.

Remember you can fall pregnant again as soon as 3 weeks after birth, if you have not started contraception then condoms should be used until you can see a doctor or sexual health clinic.

If you are currently pregnant it is a good idea to plan for what contraception you would like to use after your baby is born. You can become pregnant as soon as three weeks after your baby is born, even if your periods haven’t returned or you’re breastfeeding.

There are many suitable contraceptive options post-pregnancy and understanding which option is right for you is important. Your GP, Midwife or Sexual Health professional can help you choose contraception that’s right for you and most options are safe to use straight after birth. Condoms are a good choice to use until your main method starts working, especially if there’s any risk of STIs.

- Sexual Health Wales - YouTube 

Please note that it is not possible to start the combined contraceptive pill or have a coil fitted immediately after birth so you may be asked to use an alternative in the meantime.

Contraception: What are my options?

If your baby is less than 12 months old you can get rapid access to contraception via the ABC service provided by the department of sexual and reproductive healthcare. We are able to provide all common methods including coils and implants. If you are unsure what method would work best for you then please discuss it with out friendly staff in clinics.

Clinics are available across ABUHB and if possible we will aim to see you in a clinic close to home.

To make an appointment please call 01495 765065 and tell the triage staff that you would like to access the ABC service.

Alternatively you can attend your GP practice for your contraception.

If you would like more information about the options available then visit Home | Contraception Choices

What if I do not want any more children?

If your family is complete you and your partner may wish to consider vasectomy as a permanent contraception. This is usually performed as a short out patient procedure under local anaesthetic. You can self refer for a Vasectomy by calling 01495 765065 and selecting option 3.

Written and video information about Vasectomy can be accessed via this link Vasectomy | The British Association of Urological Surgeons Limited

For women who have completed their families it may also be possible to be sterilised during a caesarean section. This should be discussed with your midwife or doctor.