Sex and C-section..

[Storm Bride]

I'm 7 weeks post-partum after my third c-section. Over the weekend, dh and I attempted to resume our sex life. But, I found penetration painful - almost like I was being stabbed by something (sorry if that's TMI). I don't recall having any sensations like that with my previous sections.

I'm just wondering if anyone knows what's likely to cause this? Could it be that my lubrication isn't at its normal viscosity? I wouldn't have been surprised by this if I'd had a vaginal delivery (I don't know what they feel like post-partum, but this sensation would make sense if I'd been all stretched out). But, my cervix never even opened up, let alone having pushed a baby through the vaginal canal.

I saw my OB for a checkup yesterday, but forgot to ask about this (had something else on my mind). Does anybody have any idea what this could be? I really don't want to stay celibate if there's anything I can do to get rid of the pain.

[WinterBaby]

At that time for me pp after a vaginal birth, everything physically was healed and fine - I didn't have any tearing or stitches, however my hormones were such that lubrication was very little, and the vaginal walls felt "thin" to me, which made it painful to attempt penetration - way too much interior "friction" sensation. A lot of lube helped things, but I'd still say it was a couple more months before everything felt sorted out again. Also consider whether you have any abdominal adhesions in healing depending on what your pain is like.

[liseux]

Storm Bride, I want to reassure you that that kind of pain can be normal. I had 2 4th degree tear births and then a section. I thought sex after the section would be a piece of cake compared to healing the 4th degrees, but it was how you described. I think the hormone levels are so low pp, and dryness esp. with nursing is the main cause of discomfort. I found that over time it got much easier and olive oil helps a lot. Pure olive oil as a lube is by far the best. Good luck, it will get easier.

[Storm Bride]

Thank you ladies! I was a little freaked out. This the third time I've been cut open, and I never had this problem before. I'll try olive oil and see if it helps. And, it's a great relief to know that time will probably solve the problem.