Even if you feel completely healed most of the time, sex can remind you quickly that you've recently given birth. You may feel sore, tight, or uncomfortable during intercourse. This doesn't mean you have to put off sex, but you may need to make some adjustments to make you feel more comfortable. Using lubricant and experimenting with different positions could be a big help.

Use a Lubricant

Vaginal dryness, which often goes hand in hand with breastfeeding, can make sex much more uncomfortable than it needs to be. This dryness may seem even more evident if you're using condoms for birth control, as the latex can rub against sensitive tissues and cause friction. Using a lubricant can help. However, as mentioned previously, if you're using latex condoms or a rubber or latex diaphragm or cervical cap, you cannot use an oil-based lubricant like petroleum jelly, hand lotion, or baby oil, since oils break down latex. Instead, use plenty of a water-based lubricant like KY jelly, liquid, or mist, and go slowly. Plenty of foreplay may help, especially if you can have an orgasm before you begin intercourse.

Experiment with Positions

You can expect some discomfort the first few times you have sex, but if it really hurts or is very uncomfortable, stop and try something new. One thing that can make a big difference is the positions you use.

During pregnancy, you probably had to get creative with sexual positions as your belly grew. Now, the positions that were your favorites then may not feel quite as good. Depending on your body and where you're feeling pain or discomfort, changing position — say, from missionary to lying on your side with your partner behind you — may help take pressure or friction off of a sore area.

Some women like being on top because it gives them more control over penetration and speed. Experiment until you find something that works for both of you, and don't forget to add more lubricant whenever things start to feel stuck or the friction becomes too intense.