Looking after your pelvic floor: A small but significant number of women find they lose some bladder or bowel control after birth. These bodily functions are controlled by your pelvic floor, a group of muscles and ligaments, which are across the base of your pelvis. It is important to look after your pelvic floor as it:
•Supports your internal organs, such as your bladder, intestines and uterus.
•Maintains bladder and bowel control including when you sneeze, cough or lift heavy objects.
•Plays a vital role, along with other muscles, in supporting your spine.
•Helps you enjoy sex more.
Continuing with pelvic floor exercises can make a huge difference.
Sex after birth: It is normal to have concerns and questions about resuming your sex life after having a baby. You and your partner may feel ready within weeks or you may not be ready for months. It’s important to take things at your own pace.
When you do have sex for the first time, you may want to take things gently, as you might both be nervous. You can experiment to find a position that puts least pressure on any parts that are still sore and try to avoid deep penetration.
If you do start having sex again and don’t want to get pregnant immediately, you will also need to think about your choices for contraception.