Sexual Intercourse

Give yourself time. Your body needs some time to get back to normal before you have sex. The amount of time varies for everyone. It is recommended that you visit your healthcare provider for your post-partum check up before having sexual intercourse.

Your vagina may feel dry at first, especially if you are breastfeeding. Try a lubricant, extreme gentleness in lovemaking, and a position (such as the woman on top) to make it more comfortable.

Remember: You can get pregnant soon after the birth of your baby. You may ovulate (pass an egg) and become fertile before you notice any signs that your menstrual cycle has begun again.

If you are breastfeeding:

• You may not menstruate (get your period) until up to 18 months after delivery
• You can not count on breastfeeding as a reliable method of birth control
• Use a birth control method so you can space pregnancies at least a year and a half apart

If you are not breastfeeding:

• Your period usually returns within four to eight weeks after the birth of your baby
• Use a birth control method so you can space pregnancies at least a year and a half apart