Nursing mothers can have sex, but it can be different during this period.
When can I start having sex after giving birth?
There is no exact timeline. Doctors usually recommend waiting six weeks postpartum, but serious risks like bleeding or infection are minimal after two weeks [1].
Many moms wait longer. The fatigue of caring for a newborn and a still-healing perineum can reduce the desire for sex [2]. It's normal not to want sex right now, so don't feel guilty.
How does breastfeeding affect libido?
Breastfeeding can affect libido in different ways. When you nurse, oxytocin is released, which boosts mood and causes uterine contractions. Some women might feel this as sexual arousal, which is normal [3].
However, many mothers also notice a decrease in libido during breastfeeding. Both of these reactions are completely natural [3].
If I want to have sex while breastfeeding, what should I know?
When aroused, your vagina may remain dry, so use lubricant or consider sex without penetration.
Nipple stimulation can be painful, so ask your partner to try light stroking. If that doesn’t feel good, avoid the breasts during sex and foreplay [4].
Also, remember that breast milk may be released during orgasm. This is completely normal. And yes, you can drink breast milk [3].
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