Many medical professionals recommend that a woman should wait about six weeks before having intercourse after a Caesarean section. This period of time allows the incision to heal and postpartum bleeding to stop. Every woman's body is different, though, so it's important for each woman to wait until she feels ready both physically and emotionally. When a woman is ready to try having intercourse after a C-section, she and her partner might choose a position that avoids the incision scar and allows her greater control over the movements. Many women also find the use of lubricant can make the experience more comfortable.
A woman should feel ready both physically and emotionally before attempting to have intercourse. In order to determine her physical readiness, the woman should check the way her incision scar is healing and pay attention to any signs of discomfort associated with it, such as pulling or tearing. Attempting to have sexual intercourse too soon after a C-section can cause the incision wound to tear or get infected.
When preparing for intercourse after a C-section, women should also be aware of their emotional feelings toward sex. Many women experience fatigue, hormonal changes and even postpartum depression that can have great effects on their levels of desire. If the woman doesn't feel like she is in a healthy emotional place for sex after a C-section, she and her partner should wait until she feels more prepared. Attempting intercourse too early can have negative effects on the woman's healing process and on the relationship, so couples should communicate clearly about their feelings. They also might work to find new ways of sharing intimacy and connection.
After a woman is ready physically and emotionally to have intercourse, she and her partner might choose a position that avoids direct contact with the incision scar. Positions that allow the woman to be in greater control give her the flexibility to move around as needed. When the woman assumes a leading position, she can also direct the pace of intercourse to her comfort level.
The use of lubricant can also make intercourse after a C-section more comfortable for both partners. Hormonal changes and breastfeeding can cause vaginal dryness, making intercourse uncomfortable or even painful. By using lubricant, couples can ease back into sexual intimacy. In many cases, couples find that lubricant can ease discomfort until the woman's body heals fully.