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There is no specific schedule as to when sexual intercourse can be resumed. If the bright- red bleeding has stopped and the perineum (area between the vagina and rectum) is comfortable for the woman, sexual intercourse is acceptable. Generally, relations can be resumed by the third week postpartum. Women who have had an episiotomy or a tear should wait at least 3 weeks.
A woman may not necessarily feel a readiness, even though sexual intercourse can be resumed. Many women report a low or absent sexual desire during the first few weeks postpartum. Reasons may involve fatigue, weakness, pain with intercourse, vaginal discharge or concern about injury.
Most couples resume sexual intercourse by 6 to 8 weeks after delivery.
Sexual intercourse can cause some discomfort for the woman because of vaginal dryness (especially in breastfeeding women). Using a water-based gel lubricant (such as KY Jelly) will help.
Before resuming intercourse, both partners should consider birth control methods, even if it is simply using male condoms until the woman can be fitted for a diaphragm or cervical cap. The woman's fear of becoming pregnant so soon after a birth can postpone sexual relationships between partners. Consideration, understanding and communication is important between partners during this time.
MoonDragon's Postpartum Care Contraception
MoonDragon's Postpartum Holistic & Herbal Recommendations
MoonDragon's Postpartum Care Index
MoonDragon's Contraception Index - Methods & Comparisons
MoonDragon's Client Handouts about nutrition and diet for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are available at the links below. Examples of sample diets and menus are given, including some holistic suggestions. Nutritional analysis for various foods and nutritional therapy information is also available.
MoonDragon's Nutritional Guidelines
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information - Diet Index
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Diet
POSTPARTUM CARE INFORMATION
Postpartum Care: Index
Postpartum Care: Weight
Postpartum Care: Diet
Postpartum Care: Bowel Movements & Urination
Postpartum Care: Bathing
Postpartum Care: Breasts & Breastfeeding
Postpartum Care: Perineal Care
Postpartum Care: Vaginal Bleeding (Lochia) & Menstruation
Postpartum Care: Exercise & Back Care
Postpartum Care: Sexual Intercourse
Postpartum Care: Contraception
POSTPARTUM VISITS
PostPartum Visit: Day One
PostPartum Visit: Day Three
PostPartum Visit: Day Seven
PostPartum Visit: 4 to 6 Week Visit
POSTPARTUM CONCERNS
Baby Care & Concerns
Fatigue & Exhaustion
Postpartum Depression (The "Baby Blues")
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or your family member has questions about postpartum care.
You or a family member develops any unexpected and/or unusual symptoms or problems.
PREGNANCY RELATED LINKS
MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information: Pregnancy Information & Survival Tips
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Pregnancy Index
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Pediatric Index
MoonDragon's Parenting Information Index
MoonDragon's Nutrition Information Index
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Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
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Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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