Your body needs at least six weeks of healing before engaging in sexual intercourse again. This healing period may be longer for some women, depending on the amount of tearing and tissue trauma that occurs during delivery. This is especially true for women who have had an episiotomy, or vaginal lacerations.
Having sex too soon will put you at risk of infection, and there is the chance of some of the wounds opening up again. It is best to wait until you are fully healed, even if it means abstaining for longer than you would like to. When you are ready for intercourse, try using a sexual position that allows you to control the depth and intensity of penetration, such as girl-on-top, or side-by-side.
Breastfeeding can make sex feel uncomfortable, since your oestrogen levels will be very low. Low Oestrogen levels result in your vagina being unable to lubricate properly. The vaginal walls will be thinner and feel a lot drier than usual. If this is the case, use a good water-based lubricant. Avoid oil-based lubricants, such as petroleum-jelly based products. These are not condom-friendly and can agitate any lacerations that are still healing. If you have severe dryness, your doctor can prescribe an oestrogen cream that will revitalise the vaginal tissue.
Breastfeeding can result in messy sex sessions, due to leakage. Keep a towel nearby for clean-up, or wear a bra with nursing pads during sex.
