Sex after having a pēpi (baby)
Having sex again
When you do have sex again, and if you are breastfeeding, try a lubricating gel. Pregnancy and breastfeeding hormones can cause vaginal dryness, so a lubricating gel will help.
Sex is usually comfortable, but if it is uncomfortable try different positions. Different positions can help to relieve discomfort and avoid you feeling pressure on the opening of your vagina.
If you have pain that does not go away, talk to your healthcare provider.
Avoiding pregnancy
It is possible to get pregnant again once you start having sex, even if you are breastfeeding or have not had a period yet.
Your midwife or doctor will have discussed contraception with you in the first 6 weeks and may have given you a prescription. If you need further advice at a later date, talk to your healthcare provider or a Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa clinic about contraception.
Getting contraception — Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa (external link)
Related websites
Plunket external link
About the changes to your body after the birth, including about having sex again.