When can I have sex after giving birth?

Last reviewed June 19, 2026 by Dr. Sapna Jadhav, General Physician. Sources from ACOG, NHS, Mayo Clinic, CDC, NICE, NIH, Cochrane, and peer-reviewed journals.

Bottom lineThere's no fixed rule, but it's best to wait until bleeding has stopped, any tears or wounds have healed, and you feel ready - often around 6 weeks; remember you can get pregnant before your first period, so use contraception.

There's no fixed rule, but most guidance suggests waiting until any bleeding has stopped, tears or stitches have healed, and you feel physically and emotionally ready - often around the 6-week mark, but it's whenever feels right for you.

What to wait for

• Bleeding (lochia) has stopped, which lowers infection risk
• Tears, stitches, or a C-section wound have healed
• You feel ready - there's no deadline, and many people wait longer

What to expect

The first time can feel different. You may have some dryness (especially while breastfeeding, when estrogen is lower) or tenderness. Going slowly, using lubricant, and plenty of foreplay help.

Don't forget contraception

You can get pregnant before your first postpartum period returns, because ovulation comes first. If you don't want to conceive again soon, use contraception from when you resume sex - even while breastfeeding.

When to talk to your provider

Mention it at your postpartum check if you have ongoing pain, scar tenderness, dryness, or you're feeling anxious about sex - these are common and there's help available.

Femora helps you track your recovery and the return of your fertility after birth.

Plan ahead: safe birth control options postpartum